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Franklin-based SAFE Coalition was recently chosen to participate in the NFL’s “My Cause, My Cleats” program, with their logo featured on Patriots running back Marcellas Dial’s cleats for the December 1st game against the Indiana Colts.
NFL’s “My Cause My Cleats” program (#mycausemycleats), a longstanding outreach initiative, allows NFL players to “reveal their passions beyond the game and wear their hearts on their feet.". Players are given the opportunity to pick a cause that is important to them and represent their chosen organization on custom designed cleats.
Dial decided to participate after learning of SAFE’s service to those suffering substance use and mental health. Dial feels connected to this issue having witnessed the passing of his dad in 2021 due to cirrhosis of the liver. He wanted to honor his dad and tell his story in the hopes of helping people going through similar experiences.
“It's a big platform, because I can bring attention to people who are going through it about how it doesn't only affect you, but the people around you," Dial Jr. said in a recent article on the Patriots website.
"My dad knew what he was going through was affecting him, but early on, I don't think he was thinking about how it would impact us later on,” Dial says. “By the time he tried to get a hold on everything it was too late. That's the message I want to share and get out to everybody who is struggling – to not be self-centered in your thinking. Think about the people in your life who love you."
In addition to SAFE’s logo, Marcellas also had the words “Sobriety is a superpower” painted on the side of his cleats.
A new recruit to the Patriots in 2024, Dial’s wife and young daughter now regularly cheer him on from the sidelines.
SAFE Coalition, a nonprofit founded to combat the rising threat of opioid addiction and overdose in southeastern Massachusetts, now supports over 37 towns across the state with recovery and support groups, referral services, one-on-one nonclinical recovery support, resource connection, community trainings, educational programming for adolescents and schools, events like film screenings and talks, sober art and music nights, and trauma-informed yoga. SAFE also voluntarily advises opioid abatement funding boards in municipalities across the state.
Those interested in SAFE’s services or wanting to collaborate with the organization can contact SAFE at (508) 488-8105 or info@safecoalitionma.org
Graphic created by volunteer Joe Flynn @footballfunnyguy
Shoe photo credit: Leanna Puccio
