Former NFL linebacker Mark Herzlich becomes First Baptist Academy's Director of Athletic Ministries

First Baptist Academy in Naples, Florida announced former NFL linebacker Mark Herzlich as their new Director of Athletic Ministries. He will lead the school’s 19 athletic programs including basketball (girls and boys), football, track and field, volleyball, and golf. Herzlich will take over from Billy Sparacio, who stepped down last February.

The official announcement on the school’s official Facebook account reads, “A Super Bowl champ, former NFL player, and passionate advocate for faith-based mentorship and discipleship, Mark is ready to lead our athletes in both sports and faith. We can’t wait to see how his leadership elevates our programs!”

The Lions’ student-athletes can learn much from Mark Herzlich, especially in overcoming obstacles. A year after winning the ACC Defensive Player of the Year award, the former Boston College standout was diagnosed with bone cancer. Herzlich fought back and announced in September 2009 that he was cancer-free.

While he missed the Eagles’ 2009 season, he had a successful return in 2010. Herzlich tallied 65 tackles and four interceptions in 13 games to win the Collegiate Rudy Award and the Piccolo Award. Likewise, his NFL journey was unconventional because the New York Giants signed him after getting undrafted.

The Missouri-born linebacker played seven NFL seasons, all with the Giants. He was part of the team that won Super Bowl XLVI against Tom Brady and the New England Patriots. Herzlich finished his playing career in 2017, tallying 173 tackles, one sack, and two fumble recoveries in 88 games. After his playing career, he also worked as a color commentator for the ACC Network.

Mark Herzlich will be leading some successful Florida sports programs. The Lions football team went 9-3 last season and reached the Regional Finals of the Class 1A state tournament. Meanwhile, First Baptist’s boys basketball team had a 28-3 record and reached the semifinals of the Class 2A state tournament. Finally, their girls basketball team had a 20-7 record and reached the Regional Finals of the Class 2A state tourney.