Tommy - University of Michigan
“Before you say one word, you fit a stereotype.”
From Me, The “Other” film
I’m 30 years old from inner city St. Louis in Missouri. I come from a single parent home—the typical story as much as I hate to say that – mom worked two jobs and my older sister practically had to raise me. I went to high school and did really good at sports. Made it to college on a full scholarship and had fun at college—actually had too much fun as I had twins when I was a sophomore at college! So I had to do everything I possibly could by continuing my education and work at overnight shifts so I could manage to go to school, play sports, work and raise my kids all at the same time. I got my graduate degree in movement science as a Strength and Conditioning Coach. Now, I reside with my family in Colorado, where I work as a Strength & Conditioning Coach for South Metro Fire Rescue (firefighters). My wife Meghan is thriving in her career in the dental field and loves being a mom of three. We are now into our 7th year of marriage and going strong, and we hope to continue to represent that love is color-blind. Our kids, Malaiki (13), Morgan (13) and Rio (2), are excelling in school and sports. Since the MTO documentary, I have reconnected with my father and began nurturing a healthy relationship. I continue to teach my children the importance of having values, integrity, family and most importantly, faith.
Who is a here or heroine in your personal life?
My heroine would be my mother! I look up to her because she was a single parent who raised two kids and didn’t complain about anything… at least not to us. We never missed a meal, Christmas presents, sport activities or anything. She was and still is superwoman in my eyes.
What is one of your talents?
My definite lesser talent but a fun one is writing and singing music… not saying I’m any good but it’s definitely fun! Prior to starting my Masters degree sang in a band called Tasi… we played all originals. Our style was reggae with strong blues emphasis.
What’s one thing that most people don’t know about you?
Besides writing and singing, I don’t think people know I love watching movies… throwbacks movies.
What’s your favorite place in the world?
My current favorite place is Mexico!
Who is an historical figure that you would have loved to have met?
Would love to have met Jesse Owens! Jesse overcame every undesired adversity obstacle imagined for an athlete and still maintained his integrity athletically and personally. To be able to talk to a gentleman with type of humility would be priceless.
What do you do to relieve stress?
Writing is my best stress reliever.
What’s your favorite movie of all time?
My favorite movie is Five Heartbeats.
What is your favorite book?
Tony Dungy’s book Uncommon(2009) is my current favorite read.