The person I chose as my pen pal is Coach Tommy Reamon Jr. Initially, I reached out to some NFL assistant coaches, including one from the Baltimore Ravens, via Instagram DM. However, I didn’t receive a response (yet). Feeling discouraged, I took a step back and reflected on my time at Norfolk State University (NSU), where I always felt supported and championed by my coaches on the field.

I knew early on that I didn’t want to pursue a role as a Director of Football Operations—I was certain I wanted to be an assistant to a coach, preferably a head coach or an offensive coordinator. That’s when I came across Coach Tommy Reamon Jr. He exemplifies the qualities I aspire to have both on and off the field.

Coach Tommy is an alumnus of Old Dominion University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Recreation Management. He later earned a Master’s in Higher Education from the University of Virginia. His career has included working as an NFL scout for the New Orleans Saints, and beyond football, he has made a significant impact through entrepreneurship and community activism.

One of his most notable ventures is City on My Chest, an innovative clothing brand that celebrates community pride through unique designs. More than just a business, the brand serves as a platform for giving back to the city and region he loves.

I chose Coach Tommy not only to gain insight into becoming a coach’s assistant but also because of his dedication to uplifting his community. With his guidance and wisdom, I believe he can help me build confidence as a woman in sports and empower me to make a meaningful impact in my own community.