Former prep stars: Cullman’s Wesley Britt using time at home to give back to the community

Published 11:28 am Friday, July 20, 2007

Wesley Britt is in a position where young people look up to him, and it’s not just because he’s 6-feet-8-inches, 320 pounds.

Now entering his second season with the New England Patriots, the former Cullman High and University of Alabama offensive lineman has been given a golden opportunity to become a positive role model for young football players.

And since Britt knows how much of a difference a positive role model can make in a young person’s life, the 26-year old offensive lineman doesn’t plan on letting his golden opportunity go to waste.

In what little time Britt has been able to spend at home this summer, the former Cullman All-American has been taking time out of his busy schedule to give back to the community he grew up in. And according to Britt, he’s enjoyed every minute of it.

“It seems just like yesterday that I was in the same shoes as these young people,” Britt said. “I know every player wants to know what they need to do now if they want to play in college. If I can help influence a young athlete in a positive way, then it’s worth it.”

Just this summer, Britt has attended camps at Vinemont and West Point high schools, while also spending some time at Steve Johnson’s youth football camps.

While Britt knows what a football player needs to do if he’s going to play at the collegiate or professional level, the training aspect of his summer activities isn’t what has given him the most fulfillment. Instead, Britt is more thrilled that he’s been given an opportunity to express his faith.

“We open every training session with a prayer,” Britt said. “Everything that I’ve ever accomplished, I give all the credit to God. So, if I can pass that on to some of these young people, then I’ve done something.

“But it’s not just about me helping the kids, because the young players also pull me up. It’s a good feeling, and I’m thankful that Steve has given me this opportunity.”

Since Britt is supposed to report to the Patriots’ training camp at the end of the week, he plans on using the rest of his summer vacation to spend a little time with the group of people that has influenced him the most: His family.

“We’re a tight-knit group,” Britt said. “Right now I’m trying to spend as much time with them before I leave. I’ve been spending a lot of time talking to my brothers (Justin and Taylor), and just trying to have a little time with everyone. I’ve recently gotten engaged, and that’s something I’m real excited about. It’s been a really good summer this year.”

While Britt has been spending a lot of time helping others this summer, he still hasn’t lost sight of his career goals. The Patriots’ offensive lineman has been training with Johnson — his personal trainer since the seventh grade — all summer with hopes of taking his game to the next level.

“I’m excited about this year,” Britt said. “I’ve been working hard, and I’ve got some goals for myself. Hopefully everything will work out this year.”