This week’s Faith, Family, & Football feature is: Cliff Russell, Former Redskin, Bengal, Dolphin and Bronco.
PE: Why is faith important to you?
Faith is important to me because without it you live a life that is stagnated, fearful and confused. Faith brings purpose, fulfillment and focus.
PE: Tell us about your family and the impact they’ve had on your life?
I am a husband and father of two beautiful children. The impact my family has had on my life is they bring about the most humility in me because they express unconditional love and support during the good and bad seasons of life.
PE: What does being a father mean to you?
Being a father is an incredible responsibility, because I realize a legacy will be left. It is up to me whether that legacy is great or mediocre. A Father is a leader that is compassionate, strong, loving and sacrificial.
PE: How has your faith and family helped you develop off the field?
My faith and family work hand in hand. Because my faith is expressed through my family and my family is expressed through my faith. My faith is what provided me the courage, discernment, focus and my family is the greatest support.
PE: How do you balance faith, family, and football?
I've been retired from the game for almost 5 years now and during my time in football it was only my wife and I. But now in the "real world" sort to speak, this is a great challenge: business, faith and family. I wish I could say I have mastered the balancing act. I do know when I am out of balance I am more frustrated, tired and less fruitful. When this happens I re-prioritize the important things in life: Faith, Family then business. Easier said than done, but when you do it, it's easy...
PE: What advice would you give to student athletes and current professional athletes in regards to their faith, family, and football?
The best advice I can give regarding the three is:
Football: It is short lived. Use that platform to inspire and encourage off the field, become a technician on the field, also as it relates to your physical, financial and athletic ability.
Family: These are the most important people in your life that will always be there for you. Spending quality time with them is the greatest expression of your love and appreciation for them.
Faith: It is eternal. This should be your greatest investment. It brings about the greatest return in life.