NFL Hall of Famer Terry Bradshaw kicks off 2016 NSC Congress & Expo

Anaheim, CA – Terry Bradshaw has a keen interest in safety and health, but do forgive the Hall of Fame quarterback if his reasoning is a little selfish.

“I am an ex-professional football player, so the National Safety Council and I have a lot in common. I’m all about preventing injury – to me,” Bradshaw told a packed ballroom at Monday’s Opening Session of the 2016 NSC Congress & Expo.

Jokes and laughter were plentiful during Bradshaw’s speech, which should not surprise anyone who has heard his lighthearted banter with studio colleagues during his more than 20 years as an analyst on the “Fox NFL Sunday” pregame show.

Bradshaw spoke about the importance of happiness and gratitude in life, and he drew parallels between success on the football field and workplace safety, as both require teamwork, communication and leadership.

“That’s what we have here: Heroes sitting out here this morning,” Bradshaw said. “We’ve got to stop taking life for granted. We’ve got to start taking life serious. You do. You’re in the business of saving lives. You’re in the business of preventing injuries.”

In the middle of his high-energy speech, Bradshaw left the stage to shake hands, give bear hugs and pose for selfies with audience members.

“You have to say to yourself, ‘I don’t want to be normal – I want to be special,’” Bradshaw said.

Bradshaw’s speech followed remarks from NSC President and CEO Deborah A.P. Hersman and NSC Board of Directors Chairman John Surma. Both emphasized NSC’s goal to eliminate preventable deaths in our lifetime.

When Hersman asked audience members whether they believed zero deaths could become reality, nearly everyone stood in agreement.

“We will eliminate preventable deaths in our lifetime,” Hersman said. “We know this is a bold idea, but it’s one that we cannot ignore.”