The Early Years
Troy Aikman, the former Dallas Cowboys quarterback, is one of the most celebrated NFL players of all time. But behind his success on the field lies a story of strength and resilience, largely due to the influence of his mother.
Charlyn Aikman, also known as “Charlie,” was born in West Virginia in 1940. Her parents divorced when she was young, and she was raised by her mother and stepfather in Kansas. Despite financial difficulties and a lack of support, Charlie worked hard in school and graduated with honors, eventually earning a scholarship to the University of Oklahoma.
A Young Mother’s Struggle
Charlie married Kenneth Aikman, a star high school athlete, in 1964. The couple moved to West Covina, California, where Troy was born in 1966, followed by two more boys, Jeff and Scott.
Charlie’s life was far from easy. She struggled to make ends meet, working multiple jobs to provide for her family. She also battled depression and anxiety, which were exacerbated by her husband’s infidelity and eventual abandonment.
Despite these challenges, Charlie remained dedicated to her children, sacrificing her own needs to ensure their well-being. She worked long hours as a legal secretary and took on odd jobs to make ends meet, often skipping meals to save money.
Troy’s Football Career
Troy showed an early interest in football, and Charlie encouraged his passion, even though she had little understanding of the sport. She attended every one of his games and became his biggest fan, cheering him on from the sidelines.
After graduating from high school, Troy received multiple scholarship offers and ultimately chose to attend the University of Oklahoma, following in his mother’s footsteps. He went on to have a successful college career, leading the Sooners to a national championship in 1985.
In 1989, Troy was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys, where he would spend his entire 12-year NFL career. He led the team to three Super Bowl victories and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006.
A Mother’s Support
Throughout Troy’s football career, Charlie remained his biggest supporter. She attended every one of his games, both in college and the NFL, and was often seen cheering him on from the stands.
Despite her own struggles, Charlie remained a constant source of strength for Troy, offering him unwavering support and encouragement throughout his career.
Charlie’s Legacy
Charlie passed away in 2000 at the age of 59, just two years after Troy retired from football. Her legacy, however, lives on.
Throughout her life, Charlie showed incredible strength and resilience in the face of adversity. She instilled these same values in her children, teaching them to work hard, never give up, and always believe in themselves.
Today, Troy continues to honor his mother’s memory, both through his philanthropic work and by living his life with the same determination and perseverance that she exemplified.
A Story of Strength and Resilience
The story of Troy Aikman’s mom is one of strength and resilience in the face of adversity. Despite the many challenges she faced throughout her life, Charlie remained dedicated to her children and instilled in them the same values that would lead to Troy’s success on the football field.
Her legacy continues to inspire others to persevere and overcome obstacles, no matter how difficult they may seem.
As Troy once said of his mother, “She was my rock. She was the person who kept me going. And I know that she’s still with me today, every step of the way.”