Elam reveals it is an ambition of his to own a sporting goods store in future.
Baltimore Ravens safety Matt Elam is planning for life after the NFL as he begins work for a shoe store during the off-season.
Yes, Matt Elam (@ElamvsElo) really is working part-time at @FinishLine. Find out why: http://t.co/p7Uw2IFTQq pic.twitter.com/ujHCULUlDa
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) February 26, 2014
The 22-year-old has started work for a retail shop in Florida, and has revealed that the reason behind the seemingly strange move is in order to gain some experience in the business as it is one of his childhood dreams to own and operate his own sporting goods store.
“I just need to get retail knowledge,” Elam told BaltimoreRavens.com. “That’s basically what I’m doing. I’m getting that knowledge for when it’s time.”
“Everybody was surprised when I started,” he added. “They were like, ‘Why? You got enough money.’ But it’s not about the money. It’s just me building.”
It is reported that Elam will be working 20 hours per week and will be assisting customers while also stocking the back room as he looks to gain an insight into how the business is run from top to bottom.
In addition, the young star is also continuing his studies for a degree in anthropology, as he understands that he can’t have a career in football forever and is making plans for his future retirement.
For such a young man, it is both admirable and surprising that he is making such mature decisions, and the Ravens will hope that others follow his path and start making plans around their football career.
Elam’s performances on the field continue to impress his organisation with 77 tackles, three passes defended, two fumble recoveries and an interception this past season, but it appears as though they are equally as impressed with his dedication to his off-the-field commitments too.
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