Retired NFL stars host "Training Camp for Dads" to offer practical tips, encouragement and tools, emphasizing the essential role that fathers play in their children's lives

NASHVILLE, Tenn., June 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Former NFL players are lining up to spotlight the important role of fathers and provide the skills and tools needed to become "Fatherhood Champions." The Fatherhood Champions Program, launched by the National Football League Alumni Association (NFL Alumni) and supported through a grant from the Tennessee Department of Human Services, celebrates dads and the impact fathers have on their children and families, and offers practical tools and skills to make their roles more impactful.

Several former NFL greats are serving as NFL Alumni Ambassadors for the Program, including former Houston Oilers All-Pro, Pro Bowl linebacker and NFL Alumni national lead ambassador Al Smith; former Tennessee Titans, Baltimore Ravens and Carolina Panthers tackle Michael Oher; former Tennessee Titans long snapper Ken Amato; former Tennessee Titans wide receiver Kevin Dyson; former Tennessee Titans and Houston Oilers All-Pro, Pro Bowl offensive tackle Brad Hopkins; former Philadelphia Eagles, Denver Broncos and Indianapolis Colts offensive tackle Winston Justice; and former Tennessee Titans and Kansas City Chiefs All-Pro, Pro Bowl running back and punt returner Dexter McCluster.

NFL Alumni hosted a Training Camp for Dads on June 21 at the Maddox Grand Atrium of the Curb Center at Belmont University in collaboration with New Life Center and Omega Psi Phi fraternity. Hundreds of families joined the event, the purpose of which was to raise awareness of the essential roles of fathers in promoting healthy families and provide helpful tips and resources on parenting and co-parenting, maintaining physical and mental health, job training and career development. Expectant fathers were offered coaching on car seat installation, diaper changing, feeding, and child safety tips.

"Being a father is about showing up as a leader where it matters most and that's with your family," said Smith. "On the field, I learned discipline, teamwork, dependability and accountability. Now I want to help other men bring those same values into their families."

Tennessee Department of Human Services Commissioner Clarence H. Carter, who joined NFL Alumni for the June 21 Training Camp for Dads, said, "Strong families build healthy communities, and fathers play a vital role in that foundation. We're proud to support this program because when we invest in fathers, we're investing in better outcomes for children and families across Tennessee."

Oher, a Tennessee native and former Titans tackle who won a championship with the Baltimore Ravens, knows the impact of having a stable family life. His story of struggle, resilience and success on the gridiron is widely known.

"Growing up without a steady father figure taught me how critical it is for dads to be present, involved, and supportive," Oher said. "That's why I'm proud to be part of this program. I want to help dads understand the impact they have in shaping their children's lives and building stronger families."

McCluster, former running back and Pro-Bowl punt-returner for the Tennessee Titans and the father of five daughters, said while football has taught him about "life and sacrifices," fatherhood has taught him so much more.

"As part of this program, we'll talk about fatherhood skills and how to make sure we are present for our kids," said McCluster. "We'll lean on, learn from, and support each other, because 'dad' is the most important role we'll ever take on."

For more information about the NFL Alumni Fatherhood Champions Program, visit www.nflafatherhood.org.

Media Assets from the Training Camp for Dads can be found below:

• Link to Photos
• Link to Sizzle Reel
• Link to B-roll

About NFL Alumni
Founded in 1967 by a small group of successful retired NFL players, NFL Alumni is one of the oldest and most well-respected retired player organizations in professional sports. NFL Alumni's mission is to inform, assist, and serve players in their post-NFL lives.

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SOURCE NFL Alumni Association