Rose Bowl quarterback overcomes childhood trauma

Former Rose Bowl quarterback says struggles as a child developed his character
Former Washington State University Rose Bowl quarterback and current WSU radio broadcaster Jason Gesser told Garrison Middle School AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) students in Conor Fish’s class to follow their passions during a speech Thursday morning.

The former Heisman Trophy candidate grew up in poverty in Hawaii where he was a standout high school athlete and state champion quarterback. He talked of the struggles his family went through after his mother left when he was six-years-old leaving him and his sister to be raised by his single father. He often would ride a city bus for more than two hours after school to get home and was bullied and harassed in his younger days. He said these experiences only helped develop his character and make him the person he is today.

Gesser began playing football in the 8th grade and said he knew immediately it would become a major part of his life. His father told him in the 9th grade if he wanted to attend college it would be up to him to finance it, so he set in place a goal to earn a football scholarship. Gesser was overlooked by many major college football programs because coaches felt he was too small to play Division I football. He proved them wrong by leading the Cougars to two consecutive 10 win seasons including a Rose Bowl berth in 2003. He said selecting and playing for WSU was the best decision he ever made.

As a professional, Gesser played for the Utah Blaze of the Arena Football League, the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League, and the Tennessee Titans of the National Football League. He has also coached at Eastside Catholic High School, the University of Idaho and the University of Wyoming. Gesser is the grandson of Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame member Joseph “Red” Dunn.

Gesser challenged the Garrison students to make their own way by setting goals and persistently following them. He encouraged students to not be swayed by peer pressure but rather make their own positive decisions based on their passions. Students asked him several questions and took photos after his speech. Gesser also signed autographs for a number of students.

AVID’s mission is to close the achievement gap by preparing all students for college readiness and success in a global society. AVID, Advancement Via Individual Determination, accelerates student learning, uses research-based methods of effective instruction, provides meaningful and motivational professional development, and acts as a catalyst for systemic reform and change.