James Laurinaitis, a standout middle linebacker at Ohio State, certainly got his athleticism from his parents. His father, Joe, is a former professional wrestler known as "Animal," and his mother, Julie, competed as a bodybuilder.
Now a senior, James has earned several top honors - the Nagurski Award for the nation's best defensive player as a sophomore and the Butkus Award for the nation's best linebacker as a junior - and his father believes there is more to come.
No other sport can teach the values of teamwork and dedication quite like football can, and James' parents couldn't be more proud of his success. USA Football Magazine recently spoke with Joe Laurinaitis to learn what football has taught his son.
When did James start playing football?
Outside of Minneapolis, there is no Pop Warner in the suburbs, so you don't start playing until fourth grade. But before kindergarten, he'd say, "Throw the ball here," so it started at a really young age.
How were you involved in his youth football experience?
From fourth through eighth grade, I coached James in every game. I was his first linebacker coach, and I knew right away he was going to be a natural at that position because he had a knack for finding the football.
What has playing football taught James?
The value of teamwork - you have 10 other guys on your team, and whether you're on offense or defense, you can't do it all by yourself. When you're on offense, you need a good line to throw or run the ball. And you need a good defense to stop the other team's run or pass, so it helped him see how important teamwork was.
How has having two professional athletes as parents influenced him?
You can't force a person to be a good athlete. Good athletes are born, just like good leaders are born. With James, he has the genetics from his mother and I, but nothing comes short of hard work.
How has football helped James off the field?
Discipline has helped James in the classroom. He's an academic All-America too. His brother, Joe, has always been proud of him, but he's even more proud of him now because of the way he handles the success he's had.
What is your fondest memory of his football career?
Two years ago against Texas is when James really made his statement. He had an interception, two forced fumbles and 13 tackles. Once when Texas was driving, James forced the tailback to fumble. Donald Washington picked up the ball and headed up the field, and that was a game-changing play. At halftime I said to his mother, "Look at this kid - he belongs here."
What would you tell other parents about letting their child play football?
I just say support your young athlete. If his buddies are playing football and they're out in the yard, and your kid is doing well, encourage him to play. The equipment is so good these days, the chances of getting hurt are so slim.
