Big Body with a Big Heart: Kats FB Dan Alexander
February 14, 2007 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Nashville Kats News Release
Many athletes have taken different detours to reach the highest sports achievement known as professional sports. Some are born with a God given talent, while others work off determination and will. Character is described by many as, "What would you do if you were never to get caught?" In the ranks of a professional athlete, it is more a question of, "What have you done with all you've been given?" Dan Alexander, the Nashville Kats' third-year fullback, who has a heart as big as his body, is the epitome of sharing all he's been given from his career as a professional athlete.
"He is one of the most involved student-athletes Nebraska ever had in the community," said Tom Osborne, University of Nebraska Head Coach from 1973-97. While at the University of Nebraska, Alexander was the only Husker to be named to four consecutive Brooks Berringer Citizenship Teams. Named after Brooks Berringer, a former University of Nebraska quarterback that lost his life in a plane crash in 1996, the award recognizes players who take a leading role in the Huskers' community outreach activities. On the field, he is one of the most fearsome players defenders would ever want to collide with. While attending the University of Nebraska, he was a semifinalist for the prestigious Doak Walker Award as a senior. The award was created in 1989 to recognize the nation's premier running back for his accomplishments on the field, achievement in the classroom and citizenship in the community. He finished his career at Nebraska ranked 10th on Nebraska's all-time rushing list with 2,546 yards. Not to mention, in addition to his gridiron accolades and service to the less fortunate, he still maintained an academic standard, being a Four-Time Academic All-Big 12 selection.
Described by those who know him as one of the most gentle, soft spoken individuals that you will ever find, as witnessed by the way he interacts with teammates, coaches and media members. "From a young age my parents taught us to talk proper, especially in the house, I just try to treat people the way I want to be treated," said Alexander. Growing up in the value-ridden mid-west section of the country, Alexander was raised in a home where hard work, ethics and the value of giving back were a part of who you were. "I've never passed up the opportunity to donate my time, visit someone in the hospital or to lend a helping hand," said Alexander. "I've just always liked cheering people up."
Alexander's interest in football didn't start until he reached the 11th grade where he found his passion for football and helping others. While in high school, Alexander realized his passion and began to work with community outreach programs, school functions and anything that had the word community in it. "I felt like I needed to give back," Alexander said simply.
An organization Alexander really took to while in high school was the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). "I like speaking with FCA," said Alexander. "It has been one of my favorite organizations to be apart of." Years removed from high school and college, Alexander still attends meetings and speaks and mentors FCA members.
With a huge help from his wife, Amy, the couple has launched a non-profit counseling center called The Refugee Center for Counseling. The Refugee Center focuses on assisting less fortunate families deal with problems such as domestic violence, addictions and marriage therapy. In addition to his help with families, Alexander also wants to take his concern for fellow Americans further, "I hope one day to start up a home where people can go who are trying to get out of gangs," said Alexander.
"My motivation comes from my faith and I use football as a platform to help share the gospel," said Alexander who also does motivational speaking to Christian groups. While a member of the Nashville Kats, amongst others, Alexander has volunteered with Youth Encouragement Services of Nashville, Salvation Army, and numerous elementary, middle and high schools.
If beauty is indeed in the eye of the beholder, it's no surprise why Nashville Lifestyles Magazine named him one of Nashville's 25 Most Beautiful People.
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