I think just what my parents instilled in me was hard work and being able to always go out there and focus and be 100%. I took that work ethic into the NFL and everyday I always gave 100% and never wanted anything to be handed to me. I wanted to earn it. And every time I stepped on that football field during practice I wanted to leave that football field with learning something about what the practice was about for me that day...
Jerry RiceWhen you begin to lose the fire a little bit and if you're not giving 100 percent out there, then it's time for you to leave because you'll end up getting hurt - I want to be able to walk away on top.
Jerry RiceI had to work hard and hit the books because the opportunity to play in the NFL is not really that big, so I knew I needed something to fall back on. Thatโs the message I want to send to those kids when I talk to them in person and let them know the most important thing is getting your education.
Jerry Rice