Jason Kelce Celebrates Fatherhood And Family In His Retirement Speech
At his retirement press conference in Philadelphia, Eagles Center Jason Kelce, opened up about the profound impact of marriage and fatherhood on his life after an impressive 3-season run in the NFL.
Kelce is well-known for his talent and his great sense of humor, but he is perhaps best known for his love and support for his close-knit family. He openly credited his athletic successes to his upbringing, specifically highlighting the role of his parents. “I am a product of my upbringing,” Kelce said, highlighting the power of a supportive family. He also stated the role of a father is “the greatest gift."
His tribute to his own father was particularly moving: “I think one of the best things a person can be in this world is a father. A father who is present, loving, and devoted, just might be the greatest gift a child could ask for in our society. And I have a damn good one,” he added, sharing how his father’s unwavering belief and love carried him and his brother, Travis, through moments of insecurity and self-doubt. "He was the man and continues to be the man and father I strive to be.”
A Lesson in Teamwork
Kelce didn’t stop there, though. He acknowledged the strengths he inherited from both of his parents, who worked together to help him his potential. From his father came resilience and a work-hard ethos, while his mother taught him the crucial lesson of defying limitations imposed by others.
He also celebrated his wife, Kylie, and the critical role she has played in his success and happiness. “Every accolade I have ever received has come with her in my life. She has brought the best out of me through love, devotion, support, honesty, intelligence, and of course a swift kick in the a** from time to time. She has also given me three beautiful girls and a life that increasingly brings me more fulfillment off the field than it does on.”
A Touching Farewell
When asked why he chose to play football as a young child, Kelce answered, “The best way I could explain it is what draws you to your favorite song or your favorite book. It’s what it makes you feel. The seriousness of it. The intensity of it. Stepping on the field was the most alive and free I had ever felt. There was a visceral feeling with football, unlike any sport. The hairs on my arms would stand up. I could hit somebody, run around like a crazed lunatic, and then get told, ‘Good job.’ I love football."
As Kelce bids farewell to the NFL, his story is a much-needed reminder of what it truly means to live the good life: to cherish the love and support of family, to pursue one's passion, and to know when it's time to say goodbye.
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