[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 28 (Tuesday, March 15, 1994)]
[Senate]
[Page S]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[Congressional Record: March 15, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
REDSKIN CHARLES MANN
Mr. DURENBERGER. Madam President, when I picked up the sports section
of today's Washington Post I was greeted with the sad news that
Washington Redskins defensive end Charles Mann had been released after
12 years in the National Football League. My regret lies not so much in
the fact that we will no longer be afforded the opportunity to watch
him on the playing field, but that the Washington, DC community has
lost a true spiritual and community leader.
My purpose in taking the floor today is not to recount Charles' many
athletic achievements, but to talk about Charles Mann the individual.
It is easy for us to narrowly define a person by what we read in the
newspaper and see on television, but it is what those people give of
themselves which defines the true content of their character.
While growing up in California, Charles always had a sense he had a
lot to give, but did not know which avenue his life would take.
Although he did not know a lot about the Lord, he did have a deep
interest in God. This youthful curiosity was nurtured by both is mother
and grandmother, who had a deep influence on Charles as he was growing
up. Although he was blessed with this solid foundation, Charles knew
there had to be more.
When Charles was drafted by the Redskins, he joined a small covenant
group which consists of players who share a love for Christ and their
fellow man. Charles is an evangelist at heart and has made a commitment
that children should know Christ at an early age. His involvement in
the March of Dimes and Special Olympics are but two examples of his
commitment as a servant leader.
Madam President, Charles Mann will be playing football somewhere next
season and the organization which is lucky enough to sign him will
obtain more than a fine football player. They will also reap the
benefits of an association with an outstanding human being, whose
character is anchored by a personal faith and a commitment to others.
It has been a true blessing to know him. He will be deeply missed in
the Washington community.
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