Family or NFL Football with Ricky Watters

Have you ever asked yourself:

• How do I balance teaching my kids to be tough with also being emotionally available for them?
• Am I open with my children about my own fears or vulnerabilities, or do I try to hide them?
• Have I ever allowed my pride to get in the way of seeking help for my kids?

Today, Larry Hagner sits down with Super Bowl champion Ricky Watters to explore a legacy that transcends the football field. Ricky—a five-time Pro Bowler and one of the NFL’s most dynamic running backs of the 90s—opens up about his journey from being adopted as a baby in Harrisburg’s inner city to building his own family’s legacy as a father, mentor, and now, author.

Ricky shares how his parents, especially his father—a tough yet deeply loving Korean War veteran—shaped him with wisdom, resilience, and unwavering belief. Even though his father’s injuries kept him from running drills, he made sure Ricky was always supported, teaching him critical lessons in confidence, leadership, and reading people. Larry and Ricky dive deep into stories about overcoming adversity, finishing what you start, and stepping out of comfort zones.

Beyond football, Ricky reveals the heartwarming story of adopting his youngest son, Shane, from Korea, and the deep impact that decision had on their entire family. Whether you’re leading a team, raising kids, or simply striving to become a better man, this conversation is filled with wisdom and practical tools to help you live with intention and purpose. Get ready for a powerful, unforgettable episode that will inspire you to lead with love, leave a legacy, and—most importantly—never quit.

Become the best husband you can: https://bit.ly/deamarriageyoutube

Going Deep with Ricky:

1. The Power of Example: Ricky shares the profound influence his adoptive father had on him—an injured Korean War vet who, despite physical limitations, found ways to teach essential life lessons through other men in the community. The takeaway? You don’t need to be perfect to be present. “He taught me how to fight, how to lead, and how to read a room, and most of all, how to believe in myself.”
2. Breaking the Mold of Fatherhood: While many men were taught to mask their fears, Ricky’s dad encouraged open conversations—even about being scared. The result? A relationship built on trust, honesty, and emotional strength. “If I was scared, I could talk to my dad. I could be real with him.”
3. The Legacy Continues: Ricky opens up about adopting his youngest son, Shane, from Korea—a full-circle moment born from his own adoption story. He and his wife’s journey shows the beauty and challenge of choosing family, and how nurturing love can transform lives.
4. Life Lessons from Sports (And Beyond): From backyard football to the Super Bowl, Ricky reveals that greatness is about more than athletic talent—it’s about grit, finishing what you start, and lifting up others along the way.

This episode goes far beyond football, exploring the valuable lessons passed on from Ricky’s father, the challenges of growing up and raising resilient children, and the importance of finishing what you start.

Here’s what research and observation highlight about:

• Evidence suggests that 82% of adults believe their parenting style was influenced by the way they were raised.
• Studies show that roughly 95% of adopted children develop secure attachments with their adoptive families.
•  Research estimates that 80% of internationally adopted children benefit from open conversations about their adoption story.

Key Takeaways with Ricky Watters

1. Finish What You Start
2. Lead with Love and Intentionality
3. Adoption and Family Are About Choice and Action

What You’ll Learn

02:05 – Introducing Ricky Watters: From NFL stardom to a legacy beyond football
04:09 – Ricky on his adoption, family dynamics, and father’s influence
07:54 – How Ricky’s father coached him (despite war injuries) and built community
13:04 – The value of vulnerability and emotional connection between fathers and sons
19:21 – Ricky’s early love for football and lessons from playing with older, tougher kids
24:00 – High school football stories, rising through Notre Dame, and earning his spot
31:54 – Navigating self-doubt, setbacks, and finally getting the NFL dream call
47:07 – The heartbreak of losing a child, the joys and trials of fatherhood
52:50 – The adoption journey: Bringing Shane home from Korea, blessing the family
59:20 – Ricky’s insights on patient parenting, letting kids teach you, and leading by example
1:07:58 – Giving back, motivational speaking, and the mission to serve beyond football
1:13:11 – Resources, Ricky’s book “A Gift Called Shane,” and how to connect

Links

www.thedadedge.socialhost.dev/friday216

www.thedadedge.socialhost.dev/mastermind

 catwatters.com

rickywatters.com

@rickywatters 

@officialrickywatters

@rickywatters

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickywatters

---