James Metzger - Everything I ever needed to know about business I learned on the sports field

Anthony Lifted Her Heart
Oct 15, 2022Posted by james

Audrey Soape had lost her father to a tragic accident. She was just 11 years old at the time and now she would not be able to attend a father-daughter dance with her dad. Audrey asked her mom, Holly, to take her. Trying to ease her daughter’s sadness, Holly came up with the idea to contact the family’s favorite athlete and ask if he would escort the girl to the church dance.

That pro player is Anthony Harris. Now a free safety with the Denver Broncos, he was with the Philadelphia Eagles at the time. Holly is from Minnesota and she had followed Anthony’s career since he first played for the Vikings. Holly respected Anthony as an athlete and also for his deep religious faith. Periodically, Holly had sent Scriptures and uplifting messages to Anthony on social media. He often responded to her.

The family lived in Texas. Holly sent a message to Anthony and explained Audrey’s situation. Then, she asked if Anthony would consider escorting her daughter to the dance.

No doubt Anthony receives hundreds of requests along with many other professional athletes. At the time, he was focused on football. But, while not a father, Anthony is an uncle. The message got him thinking about his niece and nephew and what he would do for them if they faced a similar situation.

Anthony immediately replied to Holly, indicating that he would escort Audrey if football, specifically a playoff game, did not take preference. It all worked out for Anthony and Audrey.

The team did not have a game. Anthony sent money for a dress and to cover hair and makeup expenses. On the day of the dance, he flew to Austin and drove to the Soape’s home. He placed a corsage on Audrey’s wrist and posed for photos with the family.

At the dance, Holly’s friends didn’t know anything about Anthony. But, their fathers recognized Anthony and thanked him for escorting Audrey. Anthony and Audrey danced, talked and laughed. They participated in a scavenger hunt and Anthony even gave Audrey some football tips for her flag football team.

Audrey’s hero (Molly’s too!) manages The Anthony Harris Foundation to serve at-risk youth. He said he was honored to be asked to escort Audrey. She said that he made her feel “super special, and it was just amazing. I will never forget it.”