“Playing collegiate football at The University of Michigan for Glenn
"Bo" Schembechler, outside of my relationship with God and family, was the single
most rewarding experience of my life. The camaraderie and meaningful
friendships formed in those four years are enduring and special.”
As
a senior, I was the signal caller for arguably one of Michigan's best defenses
ever and I was later voted MVP by my fellow team mates. That award has since
been named the Glenn "Bo" Schembechler Award. Of all my
accomplishments I consider that the most important. I am humbled to this day at
being its recipient and at times fear I have not lived up to its relevance.
The
Most Valuable Player Award, since it is voted on by your peers, is, at it's
essence, a reflection of leadership and dedication to "TEAM". True
leadership comes from the heart and is a revelation of the passion one has for
an endeavor, business or cause. I am convinced that it cannot be faked, at
least not for very long. I believe that a true leader has a thorough and
precise understanding that victory, in every aspect of life, professional,
social and spiritual, comes by putting others first and building the esteem of
those around you.
I
am working today to rebuild some of the relationships I had from those day's at
Michigan. I have founded a nonprofit organization called FAN, Inc. or the
Foundation for Athletes in Need, with the specific goal of assisting former
NCAA Division I Student Athletes who were injured while participating in an
NCAA sanctioned athletic activity and now suffer debilitating conditions as a
result of those injuries. There is unquestionably a gap in services for those
whose backs many a multi-million dollar athletic program have been built.
FAN
has once again given me purpose and the opportunity to act in a position of
leadership, allowing the passion I have for this cause, to manifest into a
worthy and successful enterprise.
Steve Strinko - MVP 1974 and Founder of FAN, Inc.
