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KARL MECKLENBURG
Pro Bowl Linebacker
Former Denver Broncos All-Pro Karl Mecklenburg rose from being a college walk-on and a 12th round draft pick to a pro career that included six Pro Bowl and three Super Bowl appearances. Considered the NFL's most versatile player, Karl played all seven defensive front positions. Bronco coaches wanted him at the point of attack and would move him throughout the game. There were many games where Mecklenburg played all 7 positions in the course of a single game.
Since retiring from pro football in 1995, Karl divides his time between family, business ventures, and his ongoing charity involvements. Karl and his wife Kathi have three children. The Mecklenburgs reside in Liftieton, Colorado and attend Foothills Bible Church. In 2001 Karl was inducted into the Denver Broncos Ring of Fame and the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame. He also serves on the Broncos Alumni Councel.
The Mecklenburgs have had a strong commitment to many Colorado charities through the years, which they continue to uphold. Karl has had numerous speaking engagements with church, school and civic groups. Karl and Kathi have both served on the board of directors for "Pros With A Purpose". "Pros" is a Denver based organization that pairs homeless families with community mentor-teams (volunteers). These teams help the families to help themselves by providing budgeting, spiritual and vocational guidance as well as financial support such as apartment security deposit funds. Karl has also served as an honorary board member with The Fellowship of Christian Athletes and A Grassroots Aspen Experience.
Both Karl and Kathi are deeply involved with "Grassroots". Grassroots brings inner city kids out of their normal urban environment for one summer week in and one winter week to Aspen, Colorado. Most are leaving the city for the first time. This is a horizon broadening experience for the kids, in which they not only enjoy the beauty of nature, but also participate in many counseling, therapy and physically challenging situations. Through various activities such as camping, rap sessions, learning to ski, a ropes challenge course, and spending time with stable host-families, these at risk kids learn not only how to set goals, but more importantly, how to challenge themselves to reach their goals. The Grassroots philosophy is that every wall contains a door to a better future.
Karl has enjoyed speaking to a variety of groups over the years, and his story is both humorous and inspirational. The lessons life in the NFL taught him about teamwork, courage, dedication, honesty, forgiveness and goal setting can be applied anywhere. Mecklenburg is using his special brand of motivation as an assistant football coach at Kent Denver High School. Karl is also working with Accent Windows and O'Tooles Garden Centers as a spokesman. He has hosted a radio program, done television sideline reporting and studio work, and written columns for the Denver Post.
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