Ricky Fleming, Chairperson

I grew up in Joliet, Ilinois, where my passion for football ignited at the age of six. Football wasn’t just a sport to me—it became my way of life. At Joliet Catholic Academy, I was fortunate enough to play center, becoming a 4-year starter and earning All-Conference honors during my senior year. With 13 scholarship offers on the table, I chose Grand View University, where I proudly earned the role of starting center as a freshman.

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But my journey took an unexpected turn. Two concussions in quick succession left me diagnosed with second impact syndrome, forcing me to sit out my freshman year. Just when I thought I’d made it through, another concussion in my sophomore year brought my football career to an abrupt and heartbreaking end.

Leaving the sport I loved wasn’t just difficult—it was disorienting. I lost the camaraderie, the structure, and the identity football had given me. Moving to Florida to complete my education was a fresh start, but it came with the challenge of rediscovering who I was without the game.

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Today, I’m the owner of a commercial real estate brokerage, but what truly fills my heart is my role as a chairman on the board for Afterlete. Being part of an organization that helps former athletes navigate life after sports is deeply personal to me. I’m passionate about creating a space where we can connect through shared experiences, support one another, and find purpose beyond the game. It’s a way to honor my journey and help others find theirs.