Neumann University’s Institute for Sport, Spirituality, and Character Development (ISSCD) will celebrate its 20th anniversary by presenting its annual award to former Philadelphia Eagle Kevin Reilly on Thursday, Jan. 31 at 7 PM in the Mirenda Center.

Reilly played in the NFL for three years, but his career was cut short by a desmoid tumor, which resulted in the loss of his left arm. Reilly battled through this adversity to become a marketing executive and motivational speaker. He is the author of Tackling Life: How Faith, Family, Friends, and Fortitude Kept an NFL Linebacker in the Game.

Reilly will speak to Neumann students about his experience. The program is free and open to the public.

He was drafted in 1973 and played two years for the Eagles and one year for the New England Patriots. He was diagnosed with the tumor in 1976 and, three years later, underwent surgery to remove his left arm, part of his left shoulder, and several ribs.

Reilly was born in Wilmington, Del., and is a graduate of Salesianum High School and Villanova University.

Lee DelleMonache, director of the ISSCD, is eager to welcome Kevin Reilly to campus.

“Kevin Reilly’s inspirational story of faith and resilience and his generous, endearing spirit are why I am so very excited for the tremendous learning opportunity Kevin’s visit will afford the Neumann University community,” she said.

The ISSCD, founded in 1999, seeks to create inspirational programming and offer motivational content that transforms perspectives, inspires behavior, and deepens awareness of self, others, and God.

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