Joel Penton, football player and graduate of the Ohio State University, recently made a visit to our own Monroe High on April 23 to talk to students about standing firm in the decisions we make. The presentation, which included a concert by Ryan Holliday, kicked off the end of the year for seniors who will be venturing into their post-secondary plans soon as graduation nears.

Penton was a member of three Big Ten Championship teams and one national championship team. He was also a four time Academic All-Big Ten selection. In his last year at Ohio State, he was awarded the prestigious Danny Wuerffel trophy or better known as the Humanitarian Heisman. This award notices one college football player nationally that combine’s prominent community service also athletic and academic achievement.

Penton currently travels the country and has previously spoken at over 500 schools and to half a million people nationwide.

Penton came back that evening to share his story with the rest of the community. Penton talked about his childhood, how he made a commitment and how hard it could be and was to withstand his commitment against the influence of his peers. In 2010, Penton published a book “Stand Your Ground,” which teaches you ways to do something significant in life and really set yourself apart from the rest by standing your ground.

Outside of his career when he’s not on the road, he loves spending time with his family. He has a wife and four children ranging in age from four months to six years old.

“All those little kids keep me pretty busy,” said Penton.

When asked who or what motivates him, he said he’s got a lot of great people who’ve invested in his life, his parents, teachers and coaches. They are all the reasons he wants to give back and impact others’ lives.

“Definitely one of the biggest, if not the only reason, I want to influence others is because of my faith. I’m a Christian and so it’s my relationship with Jesus that really kind of drives me to do that,” said Penton.

Penton remembers his favorite football game when in his senior year of college; the big Ohio State, Michigan rivalry took the field. Buckeyes being ranked No. 1 in the country and the Wolverines ranked No. 2, both teams were undefeated.

“It was a night time big exciting game, and we won so that was pretty great,” Penton said.

If Penton could get one thing across to the students who hear his story, it would be to stand your ground, make the right commitments, but even more importantly, to stand your ground when you make that commitment, to follow through and keep your devotion.