Highlights
- Zack Baun, a versatile NFL linebacker, recently signed with the Philadelphia Eagles after four seasons with the New Orleans Saints.
- Baun’s diverse athletic background includes ballet, soccer, tennis, and track and field, fostered by his supportive mother, Genell Baun.
- His journey from a multi-sport high school athlete to an NFL player highlights the importance of opportunity and community support.
Zack Baun, the newly signed Philadelphia Eagles linebacker, has supportive parents, particularly his mother, Genell Baun.
The Wisconsin native’s journey from a multi-talented athlete to a professional football player proves the power of seizing opportunities and community backing.
A Diverse Athletic Background
Baun’s athletic prowess extends far beyond the football field. His mother, Genell Baun, recalls his early years:
“Before any other sport, I had him in dance. He and one other boy were the only boys in the dance academy.”
This early start in ballet laid the foundation for Baun’s impressive footwork, which would serve him well in his future athletic endeavors.
From dance, he transitioned to soccer, where he excelled as a goalie. Baun’s mother remembers his leadership even at a young age:
“He wrote a thank-you note at the end of one of the seasons to each of the kids on the team, and acknowledged whatever personal contribution that they had made to the team.”
Genell Baun, who worked full-time, credits the community for supporting Zack’s pursuits:
“It really took a community and a village to support him. The Boys and Girls Club was a huge part of it. After school growing up, he spent time in the gym there at the Boys and Girls Club (in West Bend, Wis.).”
Baun’s interests weren’t limited to sports. He was also a talented musician, playing first-chair bass in his school orchestra. His mother notes:
“Everybody talks about him playing the bass. That was not by his choice. It was by default because of his long fingers and his height. But, again, everything he did, he just really worked hard at.”
Genell sees her son’s journey as a series of opportunities:
“He recognizes the value of having those opportunities and the sacrifices that were made for him to have those opportunities. And making sure that you take advantage of every opportunity that there is to make yourself a better person, and then do what you can to give back.”
[…] However, her allegiance shifted when she met Skylar Thompson. Now, she’s a devoted Miami Dolphins fan, regularly cheering on Thompson during games and supporting his NFL career. […]