The Impact of High School Football: Lessons Learned on and off the Field

Chris Long, former NFL player and University of Virginia alum, will be inducted into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame this Saturday. Long, who recently became an assistant football coach at St. Anne’s-Belfield School in Charlottesville, reflects on the impact of high school football on his life and career.

Long emphasizes the importance of high school football in developing life skills that go beyond the field. He highlights the value of facing adversity, developing a strong work ethic, improving self-esteem, and learning the importance of teamwork. As a high school athlete, Long learned to manage his time effectively and juggle responsibilities both on and off the field.

Playing high school football provided Long with a unique experience that formed lifelong friendships and taught him the value of hard work. He recalls the intense moments on the field and the bonds formed with his teammates, which have stayed with him throughout his career.

Long credits his high school football experience for shaping his character and preparing him for the challenges of adulthood. He learned the importance of perseverance, self-worth, and communication through the sport. As a professional football player, Long has continued to apply the lessons he learned on the high school field to his career and personal life.

Despite the challenges and hardships faced on the football field, Long believes that the skills and values instilled in him during his high school football days have continued to benefit him in all aspects of his life. He emphasizes the importance of teamwork, communication, and emotional intelligence in leadership roles, drawing parallels between football and real-world scenarios.

As Long prepares for his induction into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame, he reflects on the lasting impact of high school football and the enduring camaraderie shared with his teammates. For Long and many others, the lessons learned on the football field have shaped their identities and continue to influence their paths in life.