Ernie Davis’ statue stands tall in Elmira and Ernie Davis’ legacy is one that has made Elmira notable, but young athletes in Elmira have not fully idolized what he stands for. Ernie Davis is the epitome of how both a great athlete and a great person should carry himself. Throughout his young life Davis exemplified an ability to use the saying “let your play do the talking.” With the exception of his home-runs at Dunn Field, his smooth jump-shot, and most notably his amazing touchdown runs at Parker Field, the only words that he spoke were humble, and thankful. Rather than becoming flashy and showy for his huge fan base, he thanked them for asking for an autograph because he was truly honored. His exceptional athletic ability was heavily pursued, as he was offered over fifty scholarships from the most prestigious schools in the nation including Notre Dame, UCLA, Air Force, Michigan, and of course, Syracuse. This athleticism later made him the 1961 Heisman Trophy winner, and also the number one overall draft pick by the Cleveland Browns. Today, Ernie’s athleticism is respected and admired by our young athletes, yet they are not as enamored with his character. Instead, the modern arrogant and troublesome athlete persona is glorified. Unfortunately, these immoral athletes are idolized instead. Ernie’s dream was to be an NFL star, and he deserved to reach this dream athletically and morally, yet it was cut short. Differently, other athletes are blessed with the health to reach the same dream, but some throw it out the window through the use of bad character. If one thing was stronger than Ernie’s cut toward the end-zone, it was his character; a trait many athletes do not possess. In result, he made those around him better people because of his humility and innocence. Differently, these modern day examples cause talented young athletes to throw their athletic potential away because they have not fulfilled their potential as a person. Many athletes become troublemakers and lose their ability to use a God given gift. Therefore, Ernie’s heroism, and legend must be revived for all to follow.To bring this legend to everyone, I have created a web log to inform all of Ernie Davis. A web log is an internet website that is accessible to anyone worldwide. On this ‘blog’ people have the ability to discuss Ernie’s talent, character, and memories by leaving comments and posting media and photos. The effect of this blog could have an exponential effect as it is able to reach anyone with a computer; a possession that most people have access to. Through word of mouth and touch of keyboard, people would be able to spread the word of Ernie Davis in a modern way. But most importantly, because of young people’s interest in computers and the internet, they are more prone to find this. To spread the word around town, I have e-mailed the principals of both Ernie Davis, and Broadway Middle Schools to ask them for their encouragement of this blog. Hopefully, their students participate in this blog, and learn about the etiquette, and attitude of a true athlete. I feel it is important they know they may wear the uniform of a former Heisman trophy winner, and number one draft pick. This would cause them to respect the game, themselves, their coaches, fellow students, and fellow teammates. Through Ernie’s legend, they will learn to pursue athletics with humility, manners, courtesy, and heart. Ideally, this internet depiction of Ernie’s legend will inspire young athletes to work hard and pursue their dreams, like it did for me.
Personally, attending school at Elmira Free Academy, and Ernie Davis Middle School, I have quietly been inspired by the story of Ernie Davis. Not only did he attend the same school as I have, but he touched my family, and was friends with my math tutor. I hold these people very close to me, and they have spread the word of Ernie to me through stories of not only his athleticism but also his character. This has always encouraged me to carry myself humbly, and also work endlessly on the path to achieving my own personal goals athletically, academically, and personally. I cannot say that I have achieved what Ernie Davis once did. But I can say that Ernie Davis has encouraged me to work to achieve what I have today. When I walk by his picture in Academy’s main hallway, it encourages me to work harder, and smile wider, because of the opportunities he inspired me to find, and the hero I am lucky to have. I feel honored to wear the same uniform he did, and I try to help my teammates feel the same. Ultimately, I hope this blog helps young athletes aspire to honor Ernie, by being the best people they can be.
