Football Star Alex Collins - In Memoriam

Collins, a prominent figure in professional football had etched his name into the hearts of many. Born on August 26, 1994, he embodied dedication, passion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Recognized for his remarkable skills on the football field, Collins was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the fifth round of the 2016 NFL Draft.

His NFL journey, spanning across the Seattle Seahawks and Baltimore Ravens, saw him amass an impressive 1,997 rushing yards and secure 18 rushing touchdowns. His versatility extended to 467 receiving yards on 59 catches.

However, Collins' legacy isn't confined to the gridiron. Back in 2016, his story caught the attention of Irish Dancing Magazine, which featured him as an NFL football star and Irish Dancer. The remarkable journey began when a friendly challenge from Bryanne Gatewood, his high school football coach's daughter led him to explore the realm of Irish Dance at the Drake School of Irish Dance.

Although initially skeptical about the athleticism and intricacy of Irish Dance, Collins accepted the challenge and soon found himself immersed in mastering Irish Dance.

His training in Irish Dance proved to help him on the football field. Collins continued his engagement with dance, incorporating it into his training regimen. He believed that the discipline's foot movements enhanced his agility and technique on the football field. Through hard work and dedication, he earned the respect and admiration of his fellow dancers, who were inspired by his energy and positivity during classes.

In 2018, Alex had the incredible opportunity to take a lesson from the stars of the popular Irish Dancing show, Riverdance. The Baltimore Ravens featured a clip of the experience on their youtube channel. 

Collins' journey from high school football standout to NFL draftee was a testament to his unwavering dedication and resilience. Throughout his career, he embraced challenges, demonstrating his commitment to growth and self-improvement. Following his departure from the NFL in 2021, he joined the USFL's Memphis Showboats, showcasing his unwavering determination to chase his football dreams.

As we honor the memory of Alex Collins, we celebrate his vibrant spirit and the profound legacy he leaves behind. His passion for life served as a source of inspiration for people of all ages. The loss of his presence is deeply felt within the football and Irish Dance communities, as well as among all those whose lives he touched.

Alex Collins' legacy reminds us that true athletes transcend the confines of their chosen fields and encourage us to approach challenges with the same dedication he embodied throughout his life. While his journey was cut short, his impact will continue to reverberate in the hearts of those who knew and admired him.

May he rest in peace, forever remembered for his remarkable achievements on the football field, his dedication to Irish Dance, and the indomitable spirit that defined his life's journey.

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