Charles Way: Helping Giant Players "Run" In The Right Direction

by Ryan Sherwin

14 touchdowns, 75 games played, and 55 games started ‹ running back Charles Way was a hero for many of the Big Blue faithful who donned his jersey every Sunday. Way was a hero for many who watched New York Giants games for the past five years. A hard nosed running back who pounded it up the field, Way led the Giants to victory on numerous occasions. A critical member of the team, Way brought many intangibles to the table, such as hard work and leadership qualities.

Today, Way is a hero, but for Giants players. As Players' Program Coordinator, Way has tackled a new playing field, one on which he helps Giant players Œrun¹ their financial lives and plan their future careers. Giants' management recognized a need for someone like Way to come in and give team members a player's perspective on planning for the future. Way had what it took to be a mentor for other players: he'd experienced the ups and downs of life in the NFL, made a good salary, and he also had the smarts. He'd been voted to the Academic All-ACC first team selection in his junior year at the University of Virginia. He always had one eye on his future.

As a former player, Way knows what kinds of problems players confront. "Some players don't prepare financially for life after football, and that can get them into major problems," he told me during an interview at Giants Stadium. "Many players have a tendency to believe that they will have a couple more years to save money, so they spend what they have, never thinking that they could get injured at any time, and then what!" he added. It is Way's job to help players recognize that life after football isn't so easy, and players should be saving money yearly to help them build their future. Way also mentioned that all new players must attend a Rookie Symposium in which they are taught about life in the NFL, how to deal with money, how to handle the press, and other issues that revolve around their football fame. The symposium kicks off lots for the players to think about, and Way keeps the ball running.