Mothers' Influence Runs Deep In Horsemen Team
May 10, 2007 - United Indoor Football Association (UIF)
Kentucky Horsemen News Release
Lexington, KY - "I'm a momma's boy," said Kenya Williams, the 6 foot, 335-pound defensive linemen for the Lexington Horsemen. "When I'm older I'll probably still be tugging on her skirt."
Kenya Williams and the Lexington Horsemen team share the same "mommas boy" gratitude toward their moms. A smile emerges from ear-to-ear when each player tells stories about his mom. No matter how big a player is or how stubborn he may be, his mom has always influenced him to do the right thing and she has molded her Horseman into becoming a successful athlete and role model.
Moms of the Horsemen made education the number one priority in their sons' life. It was with this encouragement that they were able to thrive off the field as well.
Williams' mom always taught him to focus on school instead of football. She felt that obtaining an education was the most important goal to achieve and that Williams should be spending time in the books rather than hitting guys on the field.
"When I was in high school, [my mom] told me, 'You think just because you play football means you can do whatever you want, but that won't get you anywhere. You're not even that good.'" Williams said with a laugh. He said to this day his mom is his biggest motivator.
"Everything I do is to please her," Williams said. "It pleases me to see that smile on her face."
From hardest critic to inspirational speaker, the Moms of the Horsemen play many roles that have shaped the lives of their sons. It is with their hard work and motivation that these moms have been able to inspire these men not only into becoming successful athletes but also compassionate and hardworking men, on and off the field.
Defensive Linemen Sylvester Peoples said his mom also made education a priority in his life. He was taught to give back to his community by teaching kids and giving them motivation to make a difference.
"My mom pressured me to get an education and to help those who can't do things on their own," Peoples said. "It was because of her influence that I'm always wanting to go to schools and let the kids know that there are better things to do than just sit around."
Offensive and Defensive Lineman Michael Madrazo talks to his mom before every game.
"She tells me not to get hurt and treats me like I'm still her baby; I mean I'm 6 foot 2, 280 pounds," Madrazo laughs.
Madrazo is the oldest of 13 brothers and sisters and he said his mom has worked very hard to model him as a positive example for his younger siblings.
"I'm the one that all my siblings look up to," Madrazo said. "I try to instill all the things in them that my mother instilled in me like getting a good education and working hard for what you want to achieve in life."
Seeing that loving, familiar face in the stands of the woman who bandaged theirs scars, put them in time-out, and always made them eat their vegetables has given the Horsemen much pride and honor. No These "Momma's Boys" are all very proud to show their mom their accomplishments. Even when Mom can't make it to the games, to know that there will be someone who will be their biggest fan and critic will always give them the drive to achieve great things.
From the Horsemen and every son and daughter, "Thank you Mom."
Nicole Cartier is a recent graduate of the University of Kentucky with a BA in Journalism and is a staff writer intern with the Horsemen. For all of the latest information on Horsemen Football, please log on to www.lexingtonhorsemen.com. or call (859)422-7277.
• Discuss this story on the United Indoor Football Association message board...
United Indoor Football Association Stories from May 10, 2007
- Mothers' Influence Runs Deep In Horsemen Team - Kentucky Horsemen
- Sioux City Bandits Stand in Way of Prestigious Record; Game to be Aired on KELO-AM - Sioux Falls Storm
- Raptors add defensive back - Rock River Raptors
- Evansville BlueCats Celebrate Armed Forces Day - Evansville BlueCats
- Ice Unable To End Storm's Streak - Colorado Crush
- Greyhounds Sign Five New Players - Ohio Valley Greyhounds
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
