Why doesn't Terry Schmidt regret missing the 1985 Bears Super Bowl?

Terry Schmidt doesn't regret missing the 1985 Bears Super Bowl because he chose to prioritize his family and pursue his lifelong dream of becoming a dentist.

What career did Terry Schmidt pursue after his NFL career?

After an 11-year NFL career, Terry Schmidt pursued and achieved his goal of becoming a dentist, working for the Department of Veterans Affairs.

What advice does Terry Schmidt give to parents about youth sports?

Terry Schmidt advises parents not to push their young athletes excessively and to let them enjoy the game, emphasizing that sports are not their profession.

Home / Sports / Ex-Bear: Missing '85 Super Bowl was a gift

Ex-Bear: Missing '85 Super Bowl was a gift

8 Feb

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Summary

Terry Schmidt prioritized family over a Super Bowl win.
He pursued dentistry after a 11-year NFL career.
Schmidt advises parents against pushing young athletes.

Ex-Bear: Missing '85 Super Bowl was a gift

Terry Schmidt, a former NFL defensive back, played 11 seasons, retiring in 1984, just before the Chicago Bears' historic Super Bowl season. He does not regret missing the championship, citing his desire to focus on family and pursue his lifelong ambition of becoming a dentist.

Schmidt's journey into professional football was somewhat accidental. Recruited as a wide receiver, he transitioned to safety and eventually played in the NFL. His early experiences included intense training camps under coaches like Hank Stram. After being traded to the Bears, he found success, but ultimately prioritized life beyond the game.

After his NFL career concluded at age 73, Schmidt pursued dental school, a path he had deferred. He found that the maturity gained from his football experience prepared him well for the academic rigor. He went on to work as a dentist for the Department of Veterans Affairs across several states.