PLANT CITY, Fla. -- From comradery and competition to fame and fortune, there is a multitude of reasons why athletes play professional football. While those incentives may be on the mind of running back Jacques Patrick, his foremost motivation starts with his father.

Peter Hayes, Sr., had an intense passion for football that he instilled in his son. The two would often be found playing football together in the front yard. As a kid, Patrick played quarterback, and it was his father who taught him how to three-step drop.

Several years and a new position later, Patrick went off to Florida State University. He would text highlights of his best runs to Hayes when he wasn’t there to see them in person.

“I don’t know where I would be if my dad hadn’t introduced me to football,” said Patrick. “It’s something I’m forever grateful for, and I’ll never forget it.”

A proud father watched on TV as his oldest son, now part of the Tampa Bay Vipers, played in his first professional football game. He eagerly awaited the highlights Patrick would be sending, not knowing it would be the last he would see.

Hayes died two days later at the age of 47 after a lengthy battle with throat cancer.