It was clear that Lawrence County’s next generation was on the mind of Joe Ehrmann.

The former pro football star came to The Villa banquet center recently to challenge an audience of about 300 to change its community by redefining what it means to be a man.

Erhmann’s noted program is called “Building Men For Others,” and he describes it as simply showing empathy and kindness and serving others.

“How does a community come together to stand against what the culture is doing to our kids?” he asked.

Ehrmann, who spent 13 distinguished seasons as a defensive lineman for the Baltimore Colts, encouraged the coaches and others in the room to lead the way.

Many of them indicated they planned to do just that.

High school football coaches Frank Bongivengo Jr. of New Castle and Jerry Holzhauser of Laurel were moved by Ehrmann’s words, as were college coaches John Latina of Notre Dame, Nick Rapone of the University of Delaware and Gino DeMarco of Geneva.

“Coaches have an unbelievable platform,” Ehrmann said. “We need one coherent message for the next generation of kids that will help them become devoted husbands, fathers and committed friends.”

PLANNED FOR TWO YEARS

Andy Tommelleo, director of the Lawrence County Career and Technical Center, began planning Ehrmann’s appearance two years ago after reading Jeffrey Marx’s “Season of Life.” The book traces Ehrmann from his wild days with the Colts to committing his life to service of others. It details his involvement with the unique Gilman School football program, where players are encouraged to express their love for one another — as they win championships.

“Life is about relationships and in the end, that’s all that really matters,” Ehrmann said.

He said each person is responsible to have a cause bigger than himself to make a difference in other people’s lives.

Ehrmann said he and other young men have been raised with a false concept of masculinity and femininity, thanks to movies, magazines and music.

He said athletic ability, sexual conquests and economic success have nothing to do with manhood, even though that is how popular culture portrays it.