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Former Player Leo Lewis Host PNE 2018
Minneapolis Host Ambassador
Dr. Leo Lewis
Leo E. Lewis III is currently the Athletic Director at Minneapolis North Community High School. Prior to his hiring, he was Associate athletic director at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities since 2005. Prior to his hiring in Gopher Athletics, he spent 24 years with the Minnesota Vikings Football Club as a player, pro scout and Director of Player Development.
Lewis’ sports career includes a four-year letterman at the University of Missouri where he was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame and All-Century Football Team. After completing 13 years of professional football – 11 with the Minnesota Vikings – Leo retired in 1991.
Lewis received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Missouri in 1980 and his Master of Science degree from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville in 1985. In 1997 he earned his Ph.D. in Kinesiology from the University of Minnesota. To complement his career goals, Leo completed a Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Argosy University in 2005. Leo’s primary research and applied interests focus on the social and psychological dimensions of sport and performance. He has presented several scholarly papers and appeared in various domains advocating for the lifestyles of physically active people. He also serves as a college instructor and mental health practitioner.
As an extension of his professional work, Leo established the Lewis Sports Foundation (LSF) in 1999. The Foundation is dedicated to providing resources to America’s youth in various communities for the development of life skills through education and physical activity. LSF is a funding and educational resource for individuals, programs, organizations, or services. Within its LifeSkills Through Sport program LSF provides academic, life skills, and sports skills instruction focused on improved life management, health, and wellness.
In addition to his philanthropic pursuits, Leo also owns a human performance company, which focuses on consulting and training for business and physically active individuals. He is a member of the National Association of High School Directors of Athletics, and the Advancement of Applied Sports Psychology.
Test Media Gallery
Quintin Demps: An Active Player Considering What’s Next
Quintin Demps is second all time interceptions leader at his alma mater, the University of Texas-El Paso. This family man and father of four has played in the NFL for seven seasons. He has been blessed to play a game and earn a great living as an NFL employee but ponders what’s next.
He’s interested in coaching, training elite athletes and entrepreneurship. His roots are deep in Texas. He grew up in San Antonio, currently plays for the Houston Texans, and resides in the Dallas me.
The PNE Network is in search of a mentor that is willing to provide his or her time and talents to coach Quintin towards success once the cheering stops and he’s forced to hang up his cleats. If you’re successful in business, work in the health and wellness or fitness industry, or believe that you have a viable career path to introduce to Mr. Demps, please email us at pne@troupe21.com.
Marques Ogden: The Poster Child for the Phrase a Setback is a Set Up for a Comeback
Marques Ogden graduated from Howard University with a degree in Finance and played for three NFL teams from 2003 to 2007 (i.e. Jacksonville Jaguars, Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills). He’s the younger brother of NFL Hall of Famer, Jonathan Ogden.
Marques, now an entrepreneur and author, knows the highs and lows of football, finances and fun. His story was featured by Forbes. We will be featuring him at PNE 2017.
Ogden hopes that aspiring and current athletes (and others) can learn from his experience. You can buy his book Sleepless Nights–The NFL–A Business and Family on Amazon.
Billy “Whiteshoes” Johnson: Football’s Fred Astair
Billy Johnson was drafted in the 15th round of the 1974 NFL draft by the Houston Oilers. He’s a member of the College Football Hall of Fame, the NFL’s 75th Anniversary All-Time Team, and a three time All Pro. He was small and fast. He’s always been a humble man, God-fearing man that loves to entertain. And for 11 NFL season he entertained the world with his funky chicken end zone celebration.
Whiteshoes is a pioneer! He was not a brash in your face showboat–just an elite athlete that loved to entertain. He set the stage for the fun in today’s game that’s now being legislated out. An ironic twist inasmuch as the NFL has documented and applauded his legendary contribution to the game.
His professional life has been dedicated to service. He’s the former Director of Player Development for the Atlanta Falcons and currently coaches high school football and track.
Click here to learn more about the man we call “Shoes” and consider joining us at PNE 2017 to meet an American icon.
Bryon Scott’s PNE Testimony: He Came to Sing, Networked, and Became an Owner
Byron Scott, a second round pick out of Penn State, played in the NFL from 2003-2012 for the Atlanta Falcons, New Orleans Saints and Buffalo Bills. He is the founder of the Pick Your Passion Foundation for the Arts, a non-profit with the mission of encouraging youth participation in music, visual and performing arts. This former NFL Man of the Year is a man of faith. He’s also an accomplished musician and a member of the NFL Players Choir.
In February of 2014, the choir crooned a few songs a cappella to open the 14th Annual PNE in New York. Scott led a tune, devoured a plate of ribs from McCray’s BBQ, listened in on the player success panel then made his way throughout the venue to checkout a few player-owned businesses and vendors in attendance.
The recreation management major knew he wanted to utilize his education and love for sport to earn a living after football but came to PNE to sing not with the expectation of finding his next opportunity. He made his was throughout the trade show and struck up with Title Boxing Club. Ten months later he was the owner of two franchises in Georgia.
Learn more about Scott’s journey to entrepreneurship by clicking here to learn how he transferred skills learned from football to become a successful franchise owner.
Demeris Johnson: Mission Possible–You Have Something to Do
Demeris Johnson, a former wide receiver for the Miami Dolphins and Buffalo Bills, is probably best known for catching and delivering souls. For the past 15 years Johnson has worked as a pastor, mentor and athletic trainer–all in hopes of helping individuals reach their divine purpose. His book, Mission Possible: You Have Something to Do, revolves around fundamental questions that need to be answered to live life to the fullest. The book focuses on the plague of hopelessness that causes symptoms of unbelief and despair. There are seven chapters, and a conclusion titled, The Millionaire Million Dollar Questions.
Johnson, a native of Detroit, Michigan, serves as a pastor at Destiny Life House Church (Buffalo, New York), works as a journalist for the Total Christian Television Network, and is the CEO of Perfecting Your Performance. This husband, father, and man of faith also serves as the spiritual advisor and speed development coach for the Sound Mind Sound Body Football Academy. His expertise is well-known and respected in football circles. All pro Rob Gronkowski credits Johnson for his professional success. “Demeris is one of the main reasons I am the professional athlete I am today. His spiritual mental and physical training put me on the path to achieve my personal greatness,” said Gronkowski. We say job well done and welcome to the PNE Network!
Please support this first time author by purchasing his book online or considering connecting with Demeris face-to-face at PNE 2017.
Earnest Byner: Everybody Fumbles
Earnest Byner is one of the most accomplished running backs of all time. This two-time Super Bowl champion and former all pro retired after a 14-year NFL career ranked 16th on the NFL’s all-time rushing list with 8,261 yards and 56 touchdowns. His 13,442 all-purpose yards rank him 55th all time. He’s in the Baltimore Ravens Ring of Honor and the East Carolina Hall of Fame.
But he’s most known for the fumble, a play that prevented his team from advancing to the Super Bowl. Byner had to lean on his faith and family to get through the long and bumpy road following the fumble. His book provides intimate insight from his high school, college and professional football experiences. His aim is to help readers blend life and football philosophies in hopes of reaching fulfillment. The book is crafted so the reader can take notes and draw upon her or her own experiences. Long time NFL coach Jimmy Raye wrote in the book’s forward, “Earnest Byner displayed confidence, fortitude, pride, persistence, fearlessness, and focus” throughout his career. “The strength of his convictions and character leaves valuable legacy” on and off-the-field. Our hope is that authors like Byner will inspire you to get off the ground and achieve your purpose.
Please support this first time author by purchasing his book online or considering connecting with Earnest face-to-face at PNE 2017.
Tyler Lockett: Small Stature, Large Character, Praiseworthy and Productive
Tyler Lockett has a reputation to uphold. He is the son and nephew of professional football players. Lockett followed in his dad and uncle’s footsteps to play at Kansas State University where he earned All American honors. His dad, Kevin Lockett, is a tough act to follow having played seven NFL seasons as a wide receiver for the Chiefs, Redskins, Jaguars and Jets. Tyler was drafted in the third round of the 2015 draft as the 69th overall pick. It didn’t take him long to make a favorable impression scoring a touchdown on a kickoff return in his first preseason game and a punt return in his first regular season NFL game. He put in the work and was rewarded as an All Pro after his first season with the Seattle Seahawks.
His football pedigree is evidenced by his production but most would have counted the undersized Lockett out. He, however, will always be in the game. Competing in all phases of life because of his grit and faith. Lockett, a devout Christian, is as squeaky clean as they come. He’s honest, pure and well-rounded. He’s inspirational, entrepreneurial, and a member of the PNE network. His most recent venture, TL, is a clothing line of tee-shirts, hoodies and hats for men and women. He’s not just selling clothes. He’s selling beliefs. Fear Can’t Come, Don’t Stop, I Create and Silence the Critics are four slogans you can rock from his 2016 line.
Tyler has passions outside of the game. Check him out performing spoken word–and follow him on–Twitter @tdlockett12. You’ll be glad you did!
Chris Harris Jr.: All Pro Super Bowl Champion Setting Sights on Brain Trauma
Chris Harris, Jr. completed his college career as 2nd all-time in tackles at the University of Kansas but did not hear his name called in the 2011 NFL draft. This disappointment served as motivation for Harris who earned a spot as the starting cornerback for the Denver Broncos during his rookie year. He was selected on the 2011 All-NFL Rookie Team and earned All-Pro Honors in 2014 and 2015. Harris remains humble and committed to his craft after being selected for back-to-back pro bowls but remains hungry and considers himself an underdog.
Off the field, Harris has established the Chris Harris, Jr. Foundation. The foundation targets children who are underdogs and in need of support to rise above their circumstances. Harris believes “every underdog deserves a shot at success and can achieve greatness.” Harris has also partnered with Out of African, a charity based in his hometown, to assist in the efforts to help the 5.5 million people living with progressive brain deterioration. disease. Many Americans dismiss the warning signs of brain diseases like Alzheimer’s, thinking the symptoms are part of aging. The first phase of his strategy involves a campaign called Healthy Brain Strategies.
Stay tuned for a major announcement at the conclusion of the NFL season and reach out to Chris @ChrisHarrisJrTwitter.
Al Smith: Think Like a Pro–Act Like a Pro
Al Smith is a family man. He and his wife Trina have three children that they love and guide on a continuous basis. He is also a man faith and faithful supporter of players in the PNE Network. His on the field accolades include Utah State Athletic Hall of Fame, Utah State All Century Team, and NFL All Pro.
Al has worked in various roles in college and professionals sports. Past roles include Director of Player Development for the Tennessee Titans, Chapter President for the NFL Alumni, and Director of Player Development at Vanderbilt University. He has also worked with Big Brothers Big Sisters, Bridges Domestic Violence and the Ronal McDonald House. Al continues to add value to the sport he loves as an Ambassador for the NFL Play 60, a youth football coach, radio analyst, and a uniform compliance officer for the NFL. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the NFL Alumni Association and the American Cancer Society.
Smith is passionate about helping people–especially athletes–compete in the game of life. His recently released book, Think Like a Pro, Act Like a Pro, is dedicated to his mother who taught Al the value of hard work and sacrifice. The subtitle of his book tells it all: Game-Winning Strategies to Achieve Results, Discipline, and Success in Life and Business. The book outlines 17 lessons on what it takes to go from amateur to pro in all aspects of life, not just in sports or in business. This book will encourage you, maybe even challenge you to take an all-in, all-pro mindset embracing the attitude and character it takes to both think like a pro and act like a pro!
Please support this first time author by purchasing his book online or considering connecting with Al face-to-face at PNE 2017.
Tarik Glenn: Super Bowl Champion, All Pro Player, Student-Athlete Development Professional
Tarik Glenn played both offensive and defensive line as a four-year letterman at Cal Berkeley. The Indianapolis Colts selected him as the 19th overall pick in the first round of 1997 NFL draft.
The investment paid huge dividends for the Colts. He protected All Pro quarterback Peyton Manning for ten seasons, played three pro bowls, and was crowned Super Bowl champion when the Colts defeated the Chicago Bears in Super Bowl XLI.
Glenn played for legendary coach, Tony Dungy, who believed in the holistic development of athletes. Glenn took Dungy’s words to heart and begin working on his career transition plan early during his NFL playing career. He was the first active player to participate in the NFL-NCAA externship program at the NCAA’s national office in Indianapolis. Glenn co-founded Dream Alive, Inc., an Indianapolis based 501 (c) (3) organization created to empower urban youth as civic-minded leaders.
He earned his undergraduate degree in social welfare and returned to Cal Berkeley in 2014 to work in the area of student-athlete development. Glenn will be bringing a contingent of student-athletes to PNE 2016 to teach them the value of networking
