NFLRUSH

Roberto Garza

Roberto Garza Antonio Gates Gary Baxter

The other day, NFLRUSH spoke to Roberto Garza, offensive guard for the Chicago Bears, and asked him some questions about eating healthy, his mission to help kids, his Grandfather and staying focused on the next game. Here's what Roberto had to say:

NFLRUSH: Roberto, that was a tough game against the Cowboys - how's the mood in the locker room as you guys come off of a rough game?

ROBERTO: We know we're better than this. We have a ton of talent on this team.

NFLRUSH: So, is there anything you guys do as a team to help you not let the loss get to you?

ROBERTO: We focus on next week - next week we'll show them the kind of team we are. That's how you deal with a loss.

NFLRUSH: That's a great way to look at things! Let me ask you about PLAY 60. You're an NFL star at the top of your game, why do you care if kids eat right? Why is PLAY 60 important to you? Do you have a personal connection?

ROBERTO: I do. My Grandfather has diabetes. It's a terrible disease that he fights it everyday. I got involved in PLAY 60 because of my work with the Diabetes Campaign.

NFLRUSH: How does PLAY 60 connect to that?

ROBERTO: With diabetes you have to closely monitor everything you eat - it's a really controlled diet. You have to understand the nutrition aspect. I know if there was a little change in his (my grandfather's) lifestyle when he was younger -- a little more exercise, a little change in eating habits, it could have changed his life. That's why this is important to me. I see kids all the time and I want to tell them that they have to start now!

NFLRUSH: Sounds like you're on a mission!

ROBERTO: Well, bad habits can lead to many illnesses. If you're fit, you're going to be way ahead of the game.

NFLRUSH: Absolutely! And, why do you think it's so tough for kids to live a healthy life and eat right?

ROBERTO: It's hard to pick a single cause. Ten or fifteen years ago, free time was time outside! Today it's inside time, with computers, internet access, and video games. Kids are sitting and playing a computer game or watching TV. That's a whole lot of things to do sitting down! Getting outside and being physical is harder today than before.

NFLRUSH: But eating healthy all the time could be a challenge for kids. Why?

ROBERTO: Temptation from advertising. All that stuff looks so good! I'm tempted. Plus, to make it worse, most of that stuff that's bad for you is unfortunately very tasty! That's the worst part of the temptation!

NFLRUSH: That's really true! So, Roberto, what can kids do to be healthier and in better shape? Is there a solution?

ROBERTO: PLAY 60! Get the word out about the NFL's PLAY 60 initiative. Kids should pick ANY sport and do it! Practice is play. Fresh air, friends and lots of play - it can change your life! Believe me!

NFLRUSH: That is GREAT advice.

ROBERTO: Yeah, kids just have to be smart and they'll make good choices. BUT, you have to have a pizza night, at least one night a week! I mean, they're kids after all!

Thanks Roberto, we'll be checking on you again later in the season!