Often in times of crisis, the world of sports comes to the aid of those in need. The COVID-19 coronavirus epidemic has been no exception, with several athletes raising money through various initiatives, including the All in Challenge. 

A few current and former athletes have also rushed to the medical front lines to help out. Former college football star Myron Rolle, Kansas City Chiefs offensive lineman Laurent Duvernay-Tardif and UFC heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic have all used their talents outside of sports to join the fight. 

Myron Rolle

We previously chronicled Rolle's amazing story. He once sought stardom on the gridiron at Florida State and with the Tennessee Titans before turning his focus to medicine. 

The former Rhodes Scholar is currently a neurosurgery resident at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, but once his floor of the hospital was converted to deal with COVID, Rolle spent time working emergency 24-hour shifts.  

"When there’s something we weren’t prepared for on the football field, you have to be able to use your mind, be creative, communicate, get lined up and get ready to do the play, get ready to execute,” Rolle told the Boston Globe. "This is analogous to that; it’s exactly what we’re doing here and everyone has sort of taken that mindset, which has been helpful.”

ESPN Feature on Myron Rolle:

Laurent Duvernay-Tardif 

Duvernay-Tardif is the only active NFL player with a medical degree. He was able to obtain his Doctor of Medicine and Master of Surgery from McGill University Faculty of Medicine while rising to become a main contributor on the offensive line for the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs. 

It is not often that one would find themselves fighting a pandemic just a few months after holding Lombardi Trophy, but here we are. Duvernay-Tardif has returned to his native Canada as a volunteer at a long-term care facility. 

Duvernay-Tardif recently shared his motivation for getting involved with ESPN. 

"Of course, there are risks," said Duvernay-Tardif. "At the end of the day you've got to look at it from a community standpoint, that having young, fit individuals working in an at-risk environment with the best protective gear possible, I think that's the best way to fight this thing and that's why I want to contribute." 

Good Morning America Profiles Laurent Duvernay-Tardif: 

Stipe Miocic 

The UFC Heavyweight Champion is likely on the precipice of a trilogy fight with Daniel Cormier, but until that happens he is helping his local Ohio community deal with the coronavirus. 

While pursuing his fighting career, Miocic has also worked as a firefighter and first responder. He told MMA Junkie that people in his line of work always have risk and, fortunately, the coronavirus calls have been limited. 

Miocic also said that his passion to be in the Octagon will have to wait while he helps alleviate the pressure on a busy system of emergency personnel. 

"I'm not worried about any of that," Miocic said about his MMA return. "Right now, I'm worried about what's going on in the world. Fighting is not going away. It's always going to be there. We've got to get rid of this thing that's going on and make everyone feel safe again (to) be able to live a normal life." 

Behind the Scenes with Stipe Miocic at the Firestation:

All three of these athletes have amazing stories to tell about their time fighting the coronavirus. They have been well-respected for their achievements outside of sports and should only continue to gain popularity as keynote speakers. 

If you are interested in booking Myron Rolle, Laurent Duvernay-Tardif, or Stipe Miocic for an appearance, virtual meeting, or as a keynote speaker, contact the agents at Athlete Speakers by calling us at 800-916-6008 or by Starting Your Booking Request Now.