Former OSU Football Star Maurice Clarett at Liberty Center HS 6-18-2014

Liberty Chapel UMC sponsored a visit by Maurice Clarett to Liberty Center.  To accommodate the large crowd the event was held in the high school gym at Liberty Center HS.
Clarett set OSU freshman single-season records for rushing yards (1,237) and touchdowns (18) in 2002 as the Buckeyes went 14-0 under coach Jim Tressel. The records were previously held by two-time Heisman Trophy winner Archie Griffin.

Clarett seemed destined to win college football’s top honor, but problems derailed his career. He spent time in prison, came out and was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the third round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He never played a down in the NFL, and briefly played professionally for the Omaha Nighthawks in the United Football League.

Clarett freely talked to the crowd of in the gym at Liberty Center HS. He chatted about his legal issues, addiction to pills and alcoholism, and how embarrassing it was to go from being a well-respected and admired star running back to a troubled man trying to find his way.

He talked about the mental health issues and poor decisions that led to his troubles and eventual incarceration.  He talked about his faith and how it has helped him turn his life around.

He talked about his new book, My Life. Story. Redemption.  

Clarett noted how important it is to face your troubles and get help when they need it.