Post by Mapalo Mwansa

A year and a half ago, Eugene Amo-Dadzie’s interview changed my perspective. His journey to becoming the UK’s 4th fastest 100m sprinter at 30, guided by faith in Jesus, showed how God uses ordinary people for extraordinary purposes. Thus giving him the title of: The World’s Fastest Accountant. Achieving such an accolade outside his prime years of athleticism made me realise I have no excuses to be just average in whatever I pursue. In my second year of university, feeling out of place among high-performing athletes, I joined the Loughborough Students’ American Football team to put my athletic frame to use. New Year’s Eve 2023 I set this audacious target to be part of the NFLs IPP off the back of feeling rock bottom, and two months into playing this sport at amateur level. The NFL International Player Pathway (IPP) program gives elite athletes worldwide a chance to join an NFL roster, boosting international representation. Participants undergo a 10-week training camp, culminating in the University of Florida Pro Day, aiming to be drafted or signed as free agents - competing against the best college football scholarship prospects America has to offer. Bold, I know, especially as someone with no professional sports experience. But I committed my actions to the Lord, and He made the way. Fast forward to August. I’d received my placement year offer at MHA before even playing a competitive snap of American football, so I had no idea of the juggling act that would lie ahead. Balancing my dreams with full-time work as a trainee accountant was grueling but rewarding—10 weekly training sessions, 5 a.m. S&C, 8:30 - 5pm in the office, then after late-night drives back and forth from Loughborough. This challenge forged resilience. However, it is not by my own strength but through Jesus Christ who strengthens me that I was able to get through this phase. Goals this ambitious so soon are illogical. But you’re only crazy until it works. Dream big! Wishing all those who helped me get through this stage the best in life! https://lnkd.in/eqXWRkC6 https://lnkd.in/eJkuSctB