Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson, known for his skills on the football field, took a moment to pause today to reflect on a very personal matter—the anniversary of his father’s passing. June 9 is a day of mourning and celebration for Wilson, as he remembers and honors the man who played a key role in shaping his character, career, and outlook on life
Russell’s father, Harrison Wilson, was more than a parent; He was a mentor, a teacher, and an unwavering source of support. Throughout Russell’s journey to becoming one of the most respected players in the NFL, the influence of his father, guiding him through triumph and adversity, has been constant
In a heartfelt Instagram post to his millions of followers, Russell gave a glimpse of the huge impact his father had on his life. Using the vintage photograph that captured moments frozen in time—young Russell standing proudly next to his father—he delivered poignant words that captured his father’s enduring genius: ” Why not you? These words that Harrison came up with during Russell’s formative years served as.” mantra—dare to dream.” A reminder that greatness comes from striving for excellence.
Harrison Wilson’s untimely passing at the age of 55, due to complications from diabetes, left a void in Russell’s life that could never be filled. Yet, amid the grief and loss, Russell found solace in the enduring lessons and memories that his father left behind. In a poignant interview with ESPN, Russell shared the profound impact of his father’s teachings on his upbringing and mindset.
“My dad, when I was young, he always inspired me,” Russell recalled. “He used to always ask me the question, ‘Son, why not you?’ The idea of ‘Why not you?’ was really at the center of who I was.” It was this sense of possibility and self-belief instilled by his father that propelled Russell to pursue his dreams relentlessly, both on and off the football field.
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In a touching tribute on the 10th anniversary of his father’s passing, Russell shared the three invaluable lessons he gained from his father: perspective, vision, and belief. These guiding principles, woven into the fabric of his being by Harrison, have been instrumental in shaping Russell’s approach to life and success.
“Dad, I miss you every day,” Russell wrote in his tribute. “You were and still are one of my greatest inspirations. You helped instill Perspective, Vision & Belief in me. 3 things necessary for not only success but overcoming.”
Despite the passage of time, Russell’s love and admiration for his father remain undiminished. In a poignant reflection, Russell expressed his one heartfelt wish—to share one more moment with his father, to bask in the joy of music and companionship on a car ride together.
“If I could have one wish in the world, it would simply be to able to go on a ride with you again and jam out to Earth, Wind, & Fire ‘Devotion’ again,” Russell wrote, accompanied by an endearing photograph of a young Russell in a football uniform, smiling alongside his father.
Russell’s tribute to his late father extends beyond words, as he honors Harrison’s memory in a personal and profound way. As a testament to the enduring bond between father and son, Russell named his youngest son Win Harrison Wilson, ensuring that his father’s legacy lives on for future generations.
While Russell Wilson has inspired millions with his skill, resilience and humility, he remains grounded in the enduring influence of his father, whose memory is a guiding light through triumph and adversity and it reminds us of our power.
