Subject: 5th quarter seminar/Bob Beck

Gentlemen:
I would like to provide my personal recommendation to you both that the "Winning in the 5th Quarter" seminars presented by Bob Beck become a standard presentation and benefit to all players both retired and active.

I attended the seminar presented in Atlanta.  It proved to be a powerful, spiritual, and moving experience for me and all who attended.  The interaction, fellowship, and information provided has not been seen before by men in our unique fellowship.  The ultimate value cannot be measured.  Many of us who attended still discuss the seminar in personal meetings and the chapter monthly meetings.  Some of us are using the tools provided on a daily basis.  In fact, additional follow up sessions I believe would be added value.
I am a physician/orthopedic surgeon who was fortunate enough to attend medical school after my injury plagued career.  Many of our bretheren were not so fortunate or motivated.  Unfortunately my neck injury deteriorated to the point of spinal cord injury and damage causing me to retire, disabled from performing surgery any longer.  I am going through an extraordinary transition and struggle in my life. 

When I attended the seminar, I was looking for "something" feeling quite hopeless and lost.  To be able to sit in a room with my NFL brothers and openly share our stories, feelings, and support was uplifting and eye opening.  Add to that the valuable information provided by Bob Beck and the entire experience was moving and priceless.  I felt like I was no longer alone, that I had a "game plan" to move forward, and that my unique band of brothers was there with me.

Again, I urge you to endorse this project as mandatory for all retired and current players.  I see the players of the more modern era as NEEDING this guidance, where money is flowing, yet our brothers are lost when their playing days are over.

Your fellow Players Associations brother,
Michael D. Ciepiela, M.D.