An NFL star who missed a crucial field goal in a recent playoff game drew plenty of scorn from angry fans — along with some heartfelt letters of support from schoolchildren.
Minnesota Vikings kicker Blair Walsh missed the game-winning kick Jan. 10. Although some fans raged online, he also received a package of handwritten notes from first-graders in Blaine, MN.
“Everyone makes mistakes sometimes. One time I made a mistake when I was doing a cartwheel. I felt embarrassed. You can still help the Vikings win the Super Bowl next year,” wrote one student.
Walsh was so moved by the letters that he visited his new pen pals, signed autographs and talked to them about perseverance and positivity.
“They just know that I’m a Vikings player,” Walsh told the Associated Press. “So for them to show that kindness and to show that empathy toward me, it’s remarkable.”