DURHAM, N.C. – Head men’s tennis coach D. Curtis Lawson and his assistant coach John McLean IV took some time away from North Carolina Central University Friday to spend with kids from Magnum Elementary School in Bahama, North Carolina, and their dads as part of the All Pro Dad program that is most recognized by its NFL theme and was started with the help of 2006 Super Bowl Champion Coach Tony Dungy.

“Coach John [McLean] and I were honored and inspired by the dads that took time out of their busy schedules to show their unwavering support for their children,” said Lawson. “I am the benefactor of being raised in a household with a dad who was actively involved in my upbringing, and it was evident that the dads who were present understood they played a vital role in their child’s success. Coach Steve Mayhew is the facilitator of the All Pro Dad’s program at Mangum and he has led by example. It was pretty cool to see that both of his kids attend Mangum and to no surprise both are actively involved in the All Pro Dad program.”

All Pro Dad is on a mission to help dads love and lead their families well and be a hero to their kids. The program is a group of people passionately committed to bringing intentional focus to fathers around the world. Its message to dads according to the programs website is, “to inspire you to embrace who you are, give you tenderness of heart, and boldness of character as a dad and husband. All Pro Dad provides guidance and practical tips in raising kids in a life-giving way.”

One of the organization’s most noteworthy events is All Pro Dad’s Day, which is a monthly school program where dads and kids meet to have breakfast and enjoy meaningful conversation that strengthens their relationship.

All Pro Dad features over 50 NFL players, coaches and alumni who speak out on the importance of being a good father. A few of the program’s most recognizable alumni include Dungy (Super Bowl Champion Coach with the Indianapolis Colts), Michael Robinson (2014 Super Bowl Champion with the San Francisco 49ers), Joe Gibbs (three-time Super Bowl Champion Coach with the Washington Redskins), Mike Singletary (Hall of Fame playing career with the Chicago Bears) and Trent Dilfer (Super Bowl Champion with the Baltimore Ravens).

Lawson and McLean were the guest speakers on Friday for the students from all grades at Magnum who had their dads in attendance Friday. Lawson is in his 16th season as head men’s tennis coach at NCCU.