2020 Recognition Launch

TOLEDO, OH, FEBRUARY 12, 2020

For almost 15 years, the spotlight has been shining on individuals who, like Chuck Ealey, see adversity and challenges in their lives as opportunities to discover and embrace their undefeated spirit to better themselves and their communities – one play at a time!  Beginning in 2008 when he first began honoring UT Rockets and since 2012, when the undefeated spirits of almost 200 area high school students have been revealed, Mr. Ealey and the Undefeated Spirit Foundation have celebrated young men and women for their integrity and infinite spirit.  It’s time to add a few others!!

The year 2020 is one that tested and challenged our health, our hearts, and our spirits. The Chuck Ealey Undefeated Spirit Foundation has designed this recognition program to identify 2,020 Undefeated Spirits – that’s right, over 2,000 individuals who, throughout the year, chose not to allow circumstances to defeat their spirits.

The effort is launching in Toledo, but we are inviting people from throughout the nation to tell us about the child,  the teenager, the college student, the first responder, the medical professional, the teacher, maybe the restaurant owner, the maintenance or food service person…anyone whose spirit inspired them and others to not give in or give up during these trying times. That’s where we need YOU!

Chuck Ealey never lost a game at QB in high school at Portsmouth, Ohio’s Notre Dame High School. In college at The University of Toledo, he quarterbacked the team and again, never lost a game despite many hardships. He ended his career with a record of 35-0 – yet to be duplicated in the 50 years that have followed his college graduation.  Chuck went on to star in the Canadian Football League and in his first year as a professional he and his teammates won the Grey Cup (Canada’s version of the Super Bowl).  Chuck Ealey would be the first person to tell you the Undefeated Spirit is NOT about him – rather, an Undefeated Spirit is something that resides in each of us. He is often heard reflecting that, “Something in life will challenged everyone whether it is a job, health, family , education. We will all face difficult times and tough days. We will all be tested.”

The Undefeated Spirit that Chuck Ealey exemplifies and empowers in others is about facing life’s difficulties with steely resolve and determination. Never quitting, never giving-up; getting-up off of the floor against the odds. Chuck has beaten the odds his entire life and has chosen to model his life choice – his Undefeated Spirit, with everyone.  

Due to travel restrictions, he remains indefinitely in the Toronto area!  During college, he wore jersey #16, thus we felt the date of February 16th symbolic!  It will be on this date that the portal will become active on www.undefeatedspirit.com for people to begin recognizing others.  It is important that we also stress that this is neither a contest or a fundraising venture.  It truly is an effort by Chuck Ealey to recognize the Undefeated Spirits of 2,020 deserving individuals. On his behalf, I am reaching out to offer you the opportunity for a virtual interview with Chuck before we make a public announcement.  We want to reach your audience and to also invite you to help us propel the information beyond Toledo!  Please me know of your interest, availability, and desired contact info, and I will have his contact you.  

 For additional information, please contact Kristina White at 419.290.5017