Seahawks fullback Derrick Coleman got a lot of attention last week when a Duracell commercial spotlighted the fact that he’s the only current NFL player who wears hearing aids. Coleman gained particular attention from one hearing-impaired girl.
That girl, 9-year-old Riley Kovalcik, decided to write Coleman a letter, and when her dad put the letter on Twitter, it quickly became a sensation.
“Dear my inspiration Derrick Coleman,” Riley’s letter began. “I know how you feel. I also have hearing aids. Just try your best. I have faith in you Derrick good job on January 20th game. Go Seattle Seahawks!”
Riley’s dad, Jake Kovalcik, told the New York Daily News that he wanted Coleman to know what he had done for their family.
“The only reason I put the tweet out was so that he can get to see that he’s an inspiration for my kids,” he said. “I don’t think she’s ever written to anyone like that, ever.”
Coleman responded with a letter of his own.
“Really was great hearing from a friend who I have so much in common with,” Coleman wrote back. “Even though we wear hearing aids, we can still accomplish our goals & dreams! If you or your family ever in Seattle, I hope we can all get together & play some sports or games!”
Coleman’s perfect response ensures that Riley Kovalcik won’t be the only one rooting for him on Super Bowl Sunday.