From NFL defensive star Trey Hendrickson and John Otten, co-author and co-founder of the Brave Like Me Foundation, comes a heartwarming, rhyming children's picture book about belonging, confidence, and discovering your purpose.
Long before Friday night lights, rivalry Saturdays, and Sunday battles on the gridiron, there was one ball who had no idea where he belonged. Finnegan is shaped a little differently than the other balls, and that difference leaves him bouncing from place to place, trying to find his spot. Soccer balls, basketballs, and baseballs all seem to know exactly what they were made to do, but Finnegan keeps coming up short, or at least feeling that way.
So he tries everything.
He bonks through tennis courts, tumbles into volleyball matches, and ricochets into one close call after another, collecting laughs, lessons, and a couple of bumps along the way. And with every attempt, a question grows louder, and more familiar to kids (and adults) everywhere: "Why am I different?"
With the help of friends, belief, and persistence, Finnegan discovers that the very thing that once made him feel out of place is exactly what he was created for. Blending humor and heart with themes like resilience, self-acceptance, and courage, Finnegan, the Football is a perfect read-aloud for families, classrooms, and teams.
A joyful reminder that we are created perfect, special, and good, and sometimes what makes us different is what helps us find where we truly belong.
Ideal for: ages 4-8, parents, teachers, coaches, and anyone looking for an uplifting childrens' book about friendship, confidence, perseverance, and finding your place.
Hendrickson, Trey: - Trey Hendrickson is a professional football defensive end known for his relentless drive, quiet leadership, and heart for others. Raised in Orlando, Florida, Trey learned early the value of hard work and perseverance, lessons that shaped his journey from Florida Atlantic University to the NFL aft er being selected in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft . He has competed at the highest level with both the New Orleans Saints and the Cincinnati Bengals, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and first-team All-Pro honors through consistent effort, discipline, and determination. Away from football, Trey is a devoted husband and father who believes that how you live matters just as much as how you play. He cares deeply about encouraging kids, giving back to the community, and leading with humility and purpose. Trey hopes his story reminds young people that character, compassion, and believing in who you are becoming matter just as much as effort or achievement.
Otten, John: - John Otten is a dad, storyteller, and nonprofit and business leader. He is the CEO and co-founder of the Brave Like Me Foundation, where he advocates for children with complex medical conditions and works to help kids feel seen, included, and confident in who they are. Inspired by his children, including his son Brayden, John believes that stories can open hearts, spark courage, and remind us all that we already are more than enough.
