Eric Jordan a hall of fame human

Editor's note: Since 1962, the Register has annually selected individuals or entities for a Register Award, recognizing their contributions to the community. Sandusky resident Eric Jordan is one of two recipients for the year because of his drive and determination to make the community healthier.SANDUSKY — As a child, Eric Jordan believed in a destiny where he'd dash by defensive players on a one-way, nonstop, somewhat-turbulent trip to an end zone.Now, as an adult, he's called an audible of sorts.The 2009 Sandusky High School graduate fully embraces a new fate by building up skills for dozens of student-athletes so they can score touchdowns.Devastating injuries abruptly and prematurely ended Jordan's collegiate football career at Bowling Green State University. A heralded running back in high school, and among Ohio's best during the 2000s, he earned a scholarship, in part, thanks to his dedicated and relentless training regimen.Rather than feel pity for himself, Jordan accepted the role of coach, devising a new game plan by incorporating some key plays from his life he knew others could benefit from.He set out to selflessly assist others to achieve their dreams, providing mentorship along the way.So, about two years ago, he created NexXt Level Fit Academy, a nonprofit tailored around creating unique programs for young athletes, be it increase their strength, improve their agility or instill confidence in their minds.In this 2016 file photo, 2009 Sandusky High School graduate Eric Jordan runs with FIT Challenger Kim Nemeth in the final stretch of the Blue Streak Pride 5K. Jordan won a 2017 Register Award, an annual recognition for humanitarians making great contributions in the community, for his drive and determination to help so many people, especially youth, get active and stay healthy.What started as a few children working out with him quickly ballooned to hourlong sessions with 50 kids. All told, about two months in, about 200 or so regulars saw Jordan on a weekly basis.Jordan's gym grew at a pace exceeding his expectations. Rather than renting out gym space or booking times at area schools, which he did, Jordan realized NexXt Level needed its own location.So he relocated his nonprofit into a vacant building at Fulton and West Washington streets, where NexXt Level has grown into one the region's more respected workout facilities.Not only did his space grow but his clientele did as well.Instead of solely training student-athletes, people ranging from their teens to late 70s sought Jordan's guidance on getting into shape.Today, on any given week, upward of 500 people train at Jordan's gym. He leads one-on-one personal sessions; therapy work; boot camps, in which large groups go through rigorous cardio and weight training exercises; and many other routines.Jordan, along with his team of trainers, who consider themselves "friends and family" — consisting of Justin Brown, Chase Burdue, Jaret Dreschel, Tony Haerr and Isiah "Zeke" Johnson, among others — also travel to other high schools, such as Townsend Community School, Edison High School and Margaretta High School, where they develop curriculum for physical education classes.With Jordan's supervision, his leadership team and contingent of clients participate in many fundraising activities, such as food drives and cancer-based initiatives. Trainers also volunteer their time for youth sports camps. Additionally, Jordan also serves on the city's recreation board, ensuring youth have access for activities and safe places to play. In this 2016 file photo, 2009 Sandusky High School graduate Eric Jordan trains student-athletes participating in a session through his nonprofit gym, NexXt Level Fit Academy. Jordan won a 2017 Register Award, an annual recognition for humanitarians making great contributions in the community, for his drive and determination to help so many people, especially youth, get active and stay healthy.Many credit Jordan for not only improving but saving their lives. For instance, through the Register's FIT Challenge contest, he's personally trained three people who have collectively lost about 150 pounds.So what draws so many people toward Jordan?Perkins Township resident Christina Humphrey, who's among Jordan's staunchest supporters, offered up a few reasons. She first met Jordan about a year ago when she walked into his facility. "He definitely has a way with people. Everyone who meets him likes him," she said. "He is always positive, even when he doesn't feel good. When he works with the kids, it's amazing. He just has a way with them. When you train with him, he's encouraging and pushes you to do better. He's always there to talk and to lend a hand. When you see him at the gym, you can tell he loves it, and it's what he was meant to do. They have become like family, and there isn't another place I'd like to workout at. NexXt Level is my home away from home."While Jordan has many fans and believers, two stand out above the rest: his mother, Angela Warren, and his longtime girlfriend, Tayler Goodin.Both women are at NexXt Level almost as much as Jordan, which can total 12 hours on some days.• Goodin: When I first met Eric, he was a man with a huge dream. After certain circumstances changed his course, he re-evaluated what was most important in life and realized it was never about what you have but about the ones you have around you: the community, the youth, the future, and he knew exactly what he wanted to do with the rest of his life, which was to give back. Eric Jordan is one of the most hard-working, selfless people I have and will ever meet. His ambition goes beyond words, and I have been in awe of his accomplishments and grit when it comes to building a lasting foundation in Sandusky. He sees our community and youth as clay, being able to mold and shape for our future as a city. I can't wait to watch him impact the city even more than he already has. • Warren: I have been asked many times who my hero is, and my answer, to this day, will never change: my son. Ever since EJ was young, he always had to be the best at whatever he did, and he always was. He has a heart of gold. He can bring out the best in anyone he comes in contact with. One of his biggest assets was starting his nonprofit organization. This has led to many athletes from surrounding areas become more confident with themselves. They became part of an organization that made them stronger and faster. You do not get paid to volunteer your time. So many hours of hard work EJ has put in with these young athletes was pure dedication. I tell him every chance I get how proud I am of him, and I know he may get tired hearing it, but it's the proud mother in me.In this 2017 file photo, 2009 Sandusky High School graduate Eric Jordan plays with children during a fitness class through Firelands Regional Medical Center's Safety Day at Dorn Community Park. Jordan won a 2017 Register Award, an annual recognition for humanitarians making great contributions in the community, for his drive and determination to help so many people, especially youth, get active and stay healthy.Reach reporter Andy Ouriel at ouriel@sanduskyregister.com and follow him on Twitter @AndyOuriel.