Michigan QB Denard Robinson sheds light on growing up poor, death of brother in Big Ten speech
Denard Robinson signs autographs during Big Ten media days in Chicago. The Michigan quarterback opened up about his family and his life during a Friday speech.
Associated Press
CHICAGO -- Denard Robinson was a scared little kid who didn't know what to do when he first stepped foot on Michigan's campus four years ago.
Those aren't my words, but those of his former center, David Molk.
Now, Robinson appears to be peeling back those layers as he prepares for his senior season with the Wolverines.
Robinson delivered a rousing speech Friday while representing the Big Ten's players during the league's annual kickoff luncheon. He was following in the footsteps of former Michigan State quarterback Kirk Cousins, whose address last year went viral.
Robinson's speech wasn't as polished as Cousins' -- but it was every bit as stirring.
The Deerfield Beach, Fla., native revealed he had a brother die when he was 10, and that he prays to him before every game.
"No matter how hot it is outside, I always feel a cool breeze," Robinson said. "I like to think it comes from him."
He proceeded to shed light on his background growing up poor in rural Florida, where he was so "self-conscious" about his upbringing, he held his recruiting visits at his grandparents' house.
Drugs infested the streets, and Robinson was ineligible to play football as a freshman. There were temptations.
"What you might not know is I wasn't even the best athlete in my neighborhood, but happened to be one of the ones who made it out," Robinson continued. "Why? Choices.
"The reason I tell you this is ... it wasn't easy where I came from. But what made it possible were my two parents, who had nothing and gave everything. And today, I want to say thank you. I love you.
"My favorite artist, Lil Wayne, has a saying, 'I didn't set out to be different. I set out out to be me, and people think it's different.' ... Where I came from, it was easy to do the wrong thing. Quit school, do drugs, live the street life. It's tough to do the right things.
"But it was my choice to be different, to be uncommon."
They were some of the first revelations about his childhood, a testament to how close-lipped he's been since stepping into the spotlight in 2010.
Since that breakout season, he's experienced both sides of fame. He felt the rush of meeting President Barack Obama and LeBron James -- and both said they knew who he was.
But he also had his Twitter account hacked by an alleged ex-girlfriend, an episode that played out nationally in the media. He went to basketball games, but couldn't do so without having his every move tracked by TV cameras.
In the end, Robinson said the key is to stay positive and use the platform for good.
"With this platform we have an opportunity -- the opportunity to make a difference," Robinson said, addressing his fellow players. "Those choices don't stop. Trust me, I'm not perfect -- just ask Coach Hoke.
"I was told I couldn't play college football, I was told I couldn't play college quarterback. I was told I was too short. ... I've been told many things, but my choice not to take the easy way out has led me to play for the University of Michigan and set college football records.
"Like I said, I used to be so self-conscious about where I came from, but today, I realize I'm blessed. ... It helped me become who I am today. It doesn't matter where you come from, anything's possible. That's the message I want to carry out. It's about choices."
Teammates have said Robinson was so inaudible when he first arrived on campus, they couldn't understand his playcalling in the huddle. Now, he's speaking for the Big Ten's players -- from the heart.
Hoke has raved about his star quarterback's progress, on and off the field. This was our first glimpse at Robinson, version 4.0.
He's off to a quick start, as per usual.
Kyle Meinke covers Michigan football for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at 734-623-2588, by email at kylemeinke@annarbor.com and followed on Twitter @kmeinke.
Comments
UofMbeBetter
Sun, Jul 29, 2012 : 5:24 p.m.
can somebody PLEASE get Denard a glass of Water......
Oh Rly
Sat, Jul 28, 2012 : 6:05 p.m.
As an MSU fan, D. Robinson is a credit to his university and the conference. Too much press is given to the negatives. Robinson is an extreme positive to the sport. Good luck to him.
Trisha
Sat, Jul 28, 2012 : 4:59 p.m.
This young man is truly an inspiration for all!! Love watching him play. Best wishes for a GREAT, HEALTHY season Denard! Go get those dreams!! You have soooo many fans behind you!! So happy you came to Michigan!! GO BLUE!!!
FlintMaize
Sat, Jul 28, 2012 : 1:36 p.m.
I am very proud of Denard and his parents as well. We have been blessed to have this young man at Michigan and in the Big Ten! No question not as articulate as Kirk Cousins, another very fine young man, but nonetheless, where Denard came from, his incedible attitude, talent, and non-stop smile, will be remembered in these parts for decades and decades.
Hebner
Mon, Jul 30, 2012 : 3:40 a.m.
This is about Denard. Denard is as articulate as they come. To speak publicly from the heart is miles ahead of anyone.
Tom
Sat, Jul 28, 2012 : 5:20 a.m.
Wake me when it's over.
TheWay
Sat, Jul 28, 2012 : 5:50 a.m.
Wake up. It's over. Wait, you're talking about the cute little run Moo-U has been on lately, aren't you?
PineyWoodsGuy
Sat, Jul 28, 2012 : 4:38 a.m.
Denard: You are a Sweetheart! I loved that you "let your hair down" and spoke from the Heart! I have lived in Ann Arbor town for 50+ years and you are the Greatest Person since sliced bread to come along in all those years! I Luv to see you on the field with Dreadlocks flying and Loose Shoe Laces! Damnn!! You are Great!!! This Season you will be achieve the Pinnacle of Greatness!!! You will go on to the Pro's and win a Biggie Contract. My buddy, Never Forget your Loving Fans in little old Ann Arbor town! We will be rooting for you, no matter where you land in the Big Leagues (crossing my fingers for the Lions! Do you hear that dude?).
GoBigBlue
Sat, Jul 28, 2012 : 2:57 a.m.
Very humble. He has clearly earned everything that he's achieved. Love watching him play and can't wait till Sep 1st.
7718
Sat, Jul 28, 2012 : 2:41 a.m.
Thank you Rich Rod for persuading Denard to attend Michigan!
concerned citizen
Sat, Jul 28, 2012 : 2:37 a.m.
Outstanding! Denard deserves to wear jersey #1 for his final season. What are we waiting on to give him this honor that he truly deserves?
RWBill
Sat, Jul 28, 2012 : 3:36 p.m.
He wants to wear 16, so the Coach is respecting his wishes.
MRunner73
Sat, Jul 28, 2012 : 2:46 p.m.
Great idea, I second that motion. (all those #16 jerseys-what will they do?)
MjC
Sat, Jul 28, 2012 : 1:54 a.m.
Look up and around the stadium on game days Mr. Robinson - I'll be out there cheering for you and your team. You're a good man. Go Blue!
jomiri469
Sat, Jul 28, 2012 : 12:30 a.m.
Great speech. Even as a Spartan, I love the guy as a person and athlete and want to see him do well against everybody except MSU. As a 3rd year starter, I would ordinarily list UM as the Big 10 favorite but I really think he's out of position as in most line-ups, he would be a slot receiver. But clearly the UM coaching staff see him as their best chance to win now until Morris is ready as a pro style QB as it's obvious that Gardiner is not the answer.
Hebner
Mon, Jul 30, 2012 : 3:35 a.m.
Denard is best in the pocket...the book in stopping him remains to be written.
7718
Sat, Jul 28, 2012 : 2:43 a.m.
Freshmen usually have a tough time starting in the Big Ten, I still think Gardner will be the best player available for QB next year at Michigan.
Scott
Fri, Jul 27, 2012 : 11:35 p.m.
Sweet guy. It must have taken a lot of courage like shrewdrealist said.
MRunner73
Fri, Jul 27, 2012 : 9:46 p.m.
Awesome, very humbling. Gotta love Denard's ability to smile. I always will admire an underdog. I hope Denard avoids inury all season so he can aspire to achieve his goals.
boo
Fri, Jul 27, 2012 : 9:41 p.m.
If you don't like Denard Robinson, there is something wrong with you.
MRunner73
Fri, Jul 27, 2012 : 9:47 p.m.
If you always liked Denard Robinson, you like him even more. Great young man.
Xgojim
Fri, Jul 27, 2012 : 9:08 p.m.
He is going to have a fabulous year! What a terrific beginning as a spokesman for all that is good in Michigan football.
heartbreakM
Fri, Jul 27, 2012 : 9:08 p.m.
Don't know how the season will play out, but wouldn't it be great to have this leader and Michigan man deliver even a greater speech in December in New York?? This man has character oozing from his body, and his joy for the game and for UM is just great. Go Blue. (And thanks for former coach Rodriguez for bringing him here)
Hailmary
Fri, Jul 27, 2012 : 8:33 p.m.
I had a hard life to in Viet Nam and recovering from Viet Nam.
RWBill
Sat, Jul 28, 2012 : 3:34 p.m.
Bro it's 40 years later. Thanks for that. You either have or haven't recovered yet. The rest is up to you.
a2citizen
Sat, Jul 28, 2012 : 4:58 a.m.
Obviously you couldn't run a 4.4 forty.
shrewdrealist
Fri, Jul 27, 2012 : 8:16 p.m.
Good for him. I can tell that took alot of courage.