Lem Burnham facts for kids

Lemuel L. Burnham, often called Lem, is a former American football player. He was a talented defensive end. Lem played for the Philadelphia Eagles in the National Football League (NFL). He also played for other teams like The Hawaiians and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Lem was born on August 30, 1947. He went to Jewett High School in Winter Haven, Florida. He also studied at Santa Ana Junior College and U.S. International University.

Playing Professional Football

Lem Burnham started his professional football journey in 1974. The Kansas City Chiefs picked him in the NFL draft. However, he was released before the season began.

Playing for The Hawaiians

Lem then joined The Hawaiians in the World Football League (WFL). He played for them in 1974 and 1975. This was a different league from the NFL.

Time with Other Teams

In 1976, Lem spent time with the Washington Redskins. He was released by them in August. The very next day, he traveled to Canada. He joined the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the Canadian Football League (CFL). He played in one game for them that season.

Success with the Eagles

From 1977 to 1979, Lem played for the Philadelphia Eagles. He played in 45 games for the team. In 1977, he was a star player. He led the Eagles in sacks with ten. A sack is when a defensive player tackles the opposing team's quarterback. In 1980, he was injured and could not play. Lem retired from football in 1981.

Serving in the Military

Before his football career, Lem Burnham served his country. He was in the United States Marine Corps. He served for four years, from 1965 to 1969. Part of his service included thirteen months in Vietnam. He was with the 3rd Marine Division there.

Awards and Recognition

During his time in the Marines, Lem earned several awards. These included the Good Conduct Medal. He also received the National Defense Service Medal. Other awards were the Combat Action Ribbon and the Naval Unit Citation. He was also given the Presidential Unit Citation. He received the Vietnam Service Medal and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. Lem was honorably discharged from the Marines.

Life After Football

After retiring from football, Lem Burnham continued to help others. He became a team psychologist. From 1986 to 1992, he worked with several sports teams. These included the Philadelphia Eagles, Philadelphia 76ers (basketball), and Baltimore Orioles (baseball).

Working for the NFL

From 1992 to 2002, Lem worked for the NFL. He was the director and vice president of player and employee development. He helped players grow and succeed. He also created the NFL Rookie Symposium. This program helps new players adjust to life in the NFL. It started in 1997.

Education and Psychology Work

Lem is a very educated person. He earned his first degree in psychology in 1974. He then earned a master's degree in counseling psychology in 1978. In 1984, he earned his Ph.D. in psychology. He is a member of many important psychology groups. He also helps professional athletes with sports psychology. He is a psychology program coordinator at Wilmington University.

Helping the Community

Lem also works to help the community. In 1995, he helped start a group called the Corporate Alliance to End Partner Violence. He was also chosen to be on the National Advisory Council on Violence Against Women. He is also a public speaker.

Writing Books

Lem Burnham has written several books. One book is "Personality in Group: Group Relevant Personality and Sociometric Status". He also wrote "Beyond X's And O's". This book helps coaches understand and manage player issues. He also co-authored two books about improving performance.

Lem's Family

Lem Burnham has a family of athletes. His son, Bryan, plays professional football. Bryan plays for the BC Lions in the Canadian Football League. Another son, Lewis, played college football for the North Carolina Tar Heels. His daughter Shannon played basketball in college. His daughter Kara played basketball and volleyball in college.