Superbowl Countdown: Remembering NFL Greats of the Past
In the weeks leading up to the NFL Superbowl, often a person’s thoughts will return to the NFL greats of the past. Perennial all-stars like Joe Montana and Troy Aikman as well as those special stories with fairytale endings like Kurt Warner will probably come to mind.
One name that you may have forgotten, or never heard about, is Rolf Benirschke. He was placekicker for the San Diego Chargers from 1978-1987, and remains the team’s all-time leader in points scored with 766 … all scored using his foot.
His story is made more amazing because he played most of his professional career with no large intestines. After contracting ulcerative colitis, he needed surgery to remove them and spent several weeks in intensive care before eventually returning to play in the NFL … but not without having to play with two ostomy devices.
His story is inspiring for football players, or players of any sport, who are facing physical challenges. It is one of hope and triumph … but not only for his ability to excel despite his physical challenges. Continue to read Rolf’s story for the rest of the tale in our article “NFL Hero – What it Means to be Great“
Related reading:
- Anthony Munoz: Another NFL hall of famer tells his own story.
- When the World isn’t as it Should Be – How do we respond when our world is messed up?
