Live What You Say

Todd Gurley lied.

Yes, the Rams running back.

I attended a charity event for the Rams tonight called “Taste of the Rams.”

(Um, branding team…let’s try again on the naming?)

The event brought in top restaurants from LA to share samples for patrons along with free drinks. And selfies with Ram cheerleaders, the mascot “Rampage” and some Ram players.

Gurley was literally right in front of me meeting a vendor and chowing down. What he couldn’t see was a small child, wearing a Gurley jersey and Rams hat, with an unsigned football. I’m not sure where his parents were so I decided to jump in and help the kid out. I remember what it was like waiting, practically breathless, hoping for a chance to meet a sporting hero at Dodger Stadium. I remember the disappointment when the player wouldn’t come my way, and I remember the elation when I would score that autograph.

I tapped Gurley on the shoulder gently and said quietly, “Hey Todd, there’s a little kid right behind you who’s hoping to meet you.”

Gurley cocked his neck back in my direction and said without emotion, “I’m eating.”

Umkay, bro.

First, he was late to his own event. Maybe he could eaten on his way down.

Second, there’s literally a small child behind you, wearing YOUR jersey, hoping for an autograph. You can’t even turn to acknowledge him?

Put down the taco.

Then a few minutes later, Gurley takes the stage and gives a stirring account for the gathered crowd about how he “comes from nothing” and he really “loves to give back.”

Puh-leeeze. Yet another example of why I’ve never been a Rams fan (Eric Dickerson, Nolan Cromwell, Jack Youngblood notwithstanding.)

Live what you say.

I can’t imagine being a coach and telling an athlete or an employee one thing and then doing the complete opposite. It just shatters credibility.

Hope the taco was good, Gurley.

And for that kid I tried to help, I hope he finds a more authentic role model.