Cortlandt Florence Scores Big,
Named All-American Running Back

Three years ago, few people would have suspected that Cortlandt Florence would become a star running back, a potential NFL draft pick for 2004, and a positive role model for other troubled boys. Cortlandt is a 2000 graduate of Eckerd Youth Challenge Program in Brooksville, FL, a program he says taught him how to turn his life around and keep focused on his goals.

“At Eckerd Challenge, they are all about helping you, about making better choices in your life,” Cortlandt says.

He credits Challenge program manager John Battle, whom he calls his mentor, for helping him understand how to keep his attitude under control and that you can “accomplish anything you put your mind to.”

With John’s support and his own talent, Cortlandt was recruited by Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, where as a running back he ranked second in rushing, scoring and points per game in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association (SIAC).

“Lightning quick Florence, a 2002 First Team All-SIAC performer, gained 1,162 yards, scored 12 touchdowns and averaged 105.6 yards per game’NFL scouts will closely scrutinize him,” reads the Tuskegee football Web site.

Cortlandt returns to Eckerd Challenge often to offer encouragement, and has become a role model. John Battle, Cortlandt’s biggest fan, plans to attend all of the Tuskegee home games this year.