Penn State kicker Joey Julius has become a national sensation in the college football world. The heavyset kicker has developed a reputation for delivering some big hits on special teams as well as being on the receiving end of some unsportsmanlike conduct penalties by opponents not wanting to be his next victim.
Now, Julius is using his new fame for a good cause by openly discussing his battle with an eating disorder.
Julius recently started talking about his troubles with food, and on Friday he was the focus of a featured story on Good Morning America, in which he explains how he would put on a healthy face in front of his teammates only to sneak junk food later in private.
WATCH: @joey_julius, @PennStateFball kicker and viral sensation opens up about his struggle with an eating disorder: https://t.co/tNSr1Axhdl pic.twitter.com/ldcgUNV0nT
— Good Morning America (@GMA) October 14, 2016
“I would have to lay down to the point where I was so sick I couldn’t move and just lay there,” Julius said. “There were some times I would cry.”
It can’t be easy for a football player to discuss a disorder more commonly associated with women, but Julius is here to let you know that stereotype is ridiculous. Eating disorders can happen to everyone and this Penn State kicker is not afraid to share his experiences.
The reception from Julius’ teammates and coaches has been nothing but supportive, as you can imagine.
“I’m very, very proud of Joey,” Penn State coach James Franklin said recently. “I really am, in so many ways. I know this is something that probably affects and helps others — to see athletes or someone in Joey’s position like this to make himself vulnerable and put himself out there like that.”
Julius has embraced his battles and not let him prevent him from doing what he clearly loves to do, which is playing football. Julius has been seen laying the lumber on special teams, proving he can be just like any other football player on the field. There is something to be said for that alone, but knowing he is looking to set an example for others who may be facing similar stresses and problems makes watching him all the more enjoyable and inspiring.
[ESPN]
