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Sean James
Seanjames.jpg
Sean James speaking at Washington University in St. Louis 2015
Born: (1969-03-15) March 15, 1969 (age 56)
Meridian, Mississippi, U.S.
Career information
Position(s) Running back
Height 5 ft 11 in (180 cm)
Weight 214 lb (97 kg)
College Missouri Southern State University
NFL draft 1991 / Undrafted
Career history
As player
1991–1992 Minnesota Vikings

Sean James, born on March 15, 1969, is an American activist and a former football player. He played for the Minnesota Vikings football team from 1991 to 1992. Sean is related to famous baseball players Cecil Fielder and Prince Fielder. In 2012, Sean started an organization called 'Be In The Know About Bullying' to help stop bullying.

Early Life and Sports

Sean James played high school football at Hutchinson High School in Hutchinson, Kansas. His team reached the state semifinals in 1986. Sean also earned special awards for being a top player in his county and state. He was a talented athlete, playing football, basketball, and track and field. As a top high school long jumper and sprinter, Sean had the best long jump in Kansas at the 1987 Kansas Relays. He jumped 23 feet 6+12 inches (7.176 m) at that event.

College Sports and Education

Sean James earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Missouri Southern State University in 1992. He also studied Physical Therapy, focusing on Sports Medicine. At college, Sean was a two-sport athlete. In track and field, he was an All-Conference sprinter in the 60 metres, 100 metres, and long jump. His personal best in the long jump was 25 feet 3 inches (7.70 m).

During his NFL pro day, Sean showed amazing speed. He ran the 40-yard dash in just 4.37 seconds. He also had an impressive 41-inch vertical jump. These skills caught the attention of scouts from the NFL.

Further Education

Sean continued his education after his sports career. He earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree in 2013. He received this degree from The George Washington University.

Life After Football

After his professional football career, Sean James started a new path. He signed a contract with the Ford Modeling Agency. He appeared in many advertising campaigns for well-known brands. These brands included Hanes, Fubu, Avon Products, and Phat Farm.

Helping Communities

Sean James is very active in helping communities. He has created programs and organizations to make a positive difference.

Gateway Program

In 2015, Sean created a program called Gateway. This program helps improve the relationship between police departments and young people in cities. Gateway aims to create better communication and understanding. It focuses on four main ideas: guidance, access, tolerance, and education. The program works to build strong relationships within the community.

Fighting Bullying

In 2012, Sean James founded the 'Be In The Know About Bullying' organization. This program teaches students how to prevent bullying in their schools. It encourages students to be leaders and use mentors to help others. The organization works to raise awareness about bullying. It also shares important information to help end bullying. Sean brings together community leaders and NFL Players to support this cause.

Supporting Student Athletes

In 2007, Sean founded Sean James Student Athletes (SJSA). This is a nonprofit organization based in New York City. SJSA provides scholarships to young people who need financial help. These scholarships allow them to pursue their education and sports goals.

Television Appearances

Sean James has also appeared on television as an expert. He shares his insights on sports and social issues.

  • In October 2013, he appeared on CBS's "The Couch." He talked about his national campaign, 'Pro Athletes Lend Their Voices to Anti-Bullying Movement.'
  • In November 2013, he discussed the culture in NFL locker rooms. This discussion followed a situation involving a player's suspension.
  • In October 2014, Sean became a correspondent expert for PIX 11. He discussed social issues in sports and business.
  • In 2019, he appeared on Fox & Friends. He shared his thoughts on game predictions and social issues in the NFL.
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