I am excited to share that the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) is bringing its Knock Out Opioid Abuse Student Athlete Initiative to Rutgers University.

Students from across New Jersey will be coming together at 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 26 at Jersey Mike’s Arena to hear from former Rutgers and NFL quarterback, Ray Lucas, who became dependent on prescription opioids due to injuries sustained during his playing career. Lucas has spoken about his addiction and recovery in an effort to help others who have struggled with addiction and to prevent youth athletes from going down the path to addiction.

I am also pleased to share that New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin will be making opening comments, and Steve Adubato, PhD and Emmy® Award-winning anchor and author of "Lessons in Leadership 2.0: The Tough Stuff," will serve as the master of ceremonies.

For the 2021-22 and 2022-23 school years, PDFNJ has been collaborating with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) to educate youth athletes about the risks of prescription opioids and how to take care of themselves physically and mentally.

WWOR recently sat down with Lucas to highlight the youth athlete initiative on “New Jersey Now.”  I urge you to take a few minutes to watch the segment to learn more about the program, and if you would like to register your school to attend the Rutgers event, please click here.

Be well.