Randle El back in Bloomington

Former IU quarterback Antwaan Randle El returned to Bloomington Friday to speak at Lighthouse Community Church where former IU running back Anthony Thompson is the pastor. \nThe service with Randle El as the featured speaker started with Democratic State Representative Peggy Welch's invocation. She said she felt right at home even though she is from Sherwood Oaks Christian Church. \nAs a video of Randle El's IU highlights played, the former quarterback stepped up to the stage. He discussed a variety of topics, including his return to Bloomington, his faith and the importance of giving 100 percent effort in everything that is done. \nHe started the talk by saying how being in Bloomington brought back a lot of glowing memories for him. He then focused the remainder of his words on reaffirming his faith in God and his dedication from the Bible. \n"I put faith before anything, and God takes care of me," he said. \nHe finished his speech by fielding a series of questions from the participants in the crowd. Thompson asked what it was like playing for Bobby Knight, the former legendary IU coach.\n"When playing for Coach Knight you have to be ready to go," Randle El said. "Both Coach Knight and (former IU baseball) Coach (Bob) Morgan have such passion for the game." \nAfter fielding questions Randle El signed autographs and posed for pictures for the hundreds of attendees. \nWhen asked after the talk about his experience throwing the touchdown in the Super Bowl he said it was a moment he will never forget.\n"It was a dream come true," Randle El said. "Every day since then has gotten better and better."\nEvent participant Daniel Moore said Randle El has inspired him as a person and that he was grateful to have the standout at his church.\n"He is a perfect voice from pro sports and has reached levels not many people can," Moore said. "He has also helped me balance my life and made me realize I can represent religion on any level"