MAYPORT, Fla. – A new program is designed to keep at-risk young adults out of trouble by helping them set sail for successful careers. The anti-crime group, MAD DADS Jacksonville, has teamed up with a Mayport mariners training school to teach local men and women the skills they need to be successful seafarers.
The program will give out at least five scholarships for each six-month class to those looking to turn their lives around.
It's the perfect solution for Eric Sampson, who was an All-American linebacker at Clemson University, but an injury ended his dreams of playing in the NFL.
"I went through depression, and then from depression my grades went down. And that's how I kind of messed up and got off track," said Sampson.
Sampson worked dead-end jobs until MAD DADS and Mayport-based Maritime License Training Company gave him a scholarship to become a merchant mariner.
"The Lord blessed me with this, and this is a great opportunity." Sampson said.
Donald Foy, president of MAD DADS Jacksonville, said with the training provided by this program, "They will be able to go anywhere in the world."
Foy said thanks to the school's owner, they're now giving students at a time a new direction for a better life.
"We want individuals to be able to come off the streets, we don't want them selling drugs and killing each other," Foy said.
"These guys are going to start off in the mid- to high-$30,000 range," said Capt. Robert Russo, CEO of the school. "They're earning potential is, well ... the captains that drive the Crowley boats are making about $160,000 a year."
City Councilman Bill Gulliford applauded the idea.
"All kids don't go to college. We put too much emphasis on that," Gulliford said. "You can be successful as a captain of a vessel somewhere; very successful."
If you would like to apply for the scholarship or contribute to it, email MADDADSJaksonvillechapter@gmail.com. Those wanting more information on the training can call the Maritime License Training Company at 904-221-2393.