The Hero In The Helmet: Colin Kaepernick

The Hero in the Helmet is a biographical children's short-story, written in a third-person narrative, to educate both children and parents alike on the life and legacy of super-star athlete Colin Kaepernick. Colin Kaepernick or 'Kap' as he is affectionally called, was a gifted quarterback for the San-Francisco 49-ers who at the young age of twenty-five lead his team to the NFC championships on his first full season as a starter. His 16-of-21 passes for 233 yards, and one touchdown performance defeated the Atlanta Falcons, advancing them to super Bowl XLVII in New Orleans against the Baltimore Ravens. This was San Francisco's first super bowl appearance since 1994.

In 2016, Colin Kaepernick became a national figure when he silently took a knee during the singing of The National Anthem; a sign of protest against racial injustice. Kap's actions started a political movement that stirred up a variety of responses from anger, hatred, and opposition to compassion, respect and support. The NFL responded by keeping Kap as a free agent and has not made it to any roster since, despite his undeniable skill and athletic record.

Kaepernick changed platforms from football field to stages as he picked up public speaking to make clear that his decision for kneeling is and was not a sign of disrespect to the United States flag nor to military veterans, but a demonstration against racial injustice, systemic oppression, police brutality, and the lack of accountability for wrongful police murders in court against black and minority civilians.

Colin Kaepernick remains active in his work as a social advocate against racial inequality, and because of his unwavering leadership has been awarded The Len Eshmont Award (voted on by his teammates) who best exemplifies the inspirational and courageous play of Len Eshmont, Best Breakthrough Athlete, Eason Monroe Courageous Advocate Award, The Sports Illustrated Muhammad Ali Legacy Selfless Award, and The GQ Citizen of the Year Award. In addition, he has pledged one million dollars of his own money to empower oppressed communities.

Author: Joa Macnalie
Publisher: Joa Macnalie
Published: 05/13/2018
Pages: 26
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.24lbs
Size: 11.00h x 8.50w x 0.07d
ISBN: 9781626768093
Audience: Ages 9-12

About the Author
Macnalie, Joa: - Joa Macnalie is a post-graduate student of Liberty University with a Master's degree focus in Professional Counseling. Ms. Joa is currently employed with The Salvation Army as a clinical case manager and has been there two years. Joa was a stellar student-athlete graduating with high honors at Southern Vermont College where she completed her undergraduate degree in Pscyhology. She was the captain of her basketball team; a 3 time MVP, The Scott Mckenzie sportwoman of the year, and entered into the 1,000 point club in her junior year to retire her #22 jersey. Joa also surpassed the all-time scoring leader in her time at SVC. Some of Joa's hobbies include: reading, writing and working as a fashion stylist as the CEO of her own company WhoDressedU? She also enjoys interior decorating and spending quality time with her family. Joa's passion is rooted in education. A teacher by nature, she loves to learn and spread knowledge. Joa is particularly keen on the childhood and adolescent population, as she believes is the key age to instill values and material; consistent with psychological assumptions.