Stephen Tulloch achieved one of his biggest career goals: He is a professional football player with more than 10 years of work as a NFL linebacker under his belt.
One thing that has remained true throughout his career as a player is his enjoyment at spreading his love of the game with children. To that end, he has put together his first kids’ book, “The Little Linebacker,” which is now available. His first book tour begins this week.
The book is a fictional story about a boy that has big dreams of playing football in the NFL. This young boy must overcome the odds and many challenges before he can reach his ultimate goal of becoming a professional football player.
“Growing up I was always told I was too small or too slow to make it to the next level of football and I thought that sharing my story through a children’s book would be a great way to inspire young children and teach them that they can achieve their goals and dreams,” said Tulloch, who proudly wore the Honolulu Blue with the Detroit Lions. “I truly hope that this book will end up in schools across the country to help empower our youth.”
Maria Dismondy, the local author of several other award-winning titles such as “Spaghetti In A Hot Dog Bun,” teamed up with Tulloch to share his story of determination.
“I have been writing books in the industry for almost a decade and market research tells us that there is still a great need for books like ‘The Little Linebacker,'” said Dismondy. “Books that children can relate to and teach life skills like perseverance, patience and confidence in order to problem solve in society.”
The book became available in major bookstores and retailers in June. All sales from this book will benefit the Stephen Tulloch Foundation and Operation 55, helping put new technology and needs in schools.
Launched in 2009, The Stephen Tulloch Foundation helps assist underprivileged youth with opportunities to be successful and works to provide them with the same opportunities as other children. Mr. Tulloch’s goal is to supply youth with the essentials to build self-esteem, establish their goals, and help unlock their potential.
The book tour of events will continue in Miami, Nashville and North Carolina State University, throughout the rest of the year.
Signing events include: 11 a.m. to noon Thursday, June 9, at Books-A-Million at 31150 Southfield Road in Franklin as well as 6-7 p.m. that night at Barnes and Noble at 3120 Fairlane Drive in Allen Park. On Friday, Tulloch will read and sign from 6-7 p.m. at Barnes and Noble at 9605 Village Place Boulevard in Green Oak Township.
