Cannabis Can Be A 'Great Tool In Dealing With Adversity,' Says Former NFL Star Ricky Williams

Former NFL running back Ricky Williams has become a powerful advocate for cannabis use in professional sports, leveraging his own experience to push for a broader acceptance of the plant's therapeutic benefits. At the recent Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, Williams spoke about his journey with cannabis, highlighting how it helped him cope with the physical and mental pressures of professional football.

A Changing Conversation in Sports

Williams, who founded the cannabis brand Highsman in 2021, believes his personal experience has helped shift the conversation about cannabis in sports. "What I took away was that people still and actively care about media," Williams said. He emphasized that athletes are increasingly using cannabis to deal with the stress and challenges that come with high-level competition. He added, "Cannabis can be a great tool in supporting someone dealing with adversity in pursuit of something great."

With a focus on wellness, Williams explained that Highsman's message is more than just cannabis—it's about promoting personal greatness. “We're preaching that cannabis can help people achieve greatness despite the challenges,” he said. Williams hopes to continue broadening the understanding of cannabis in the athletic community and beyond.

Advocacy in Washington D.C.

Williams also discussed his advocacy work in Washington, D.C., where he uses his platform to push for cannabis reform. He shared that his efforts are centered around educating both himself and policymakers. “I have no idea how politicians think about or view cannabis,” he admitted, noting that his goal is to have open conversations that could lead to meaningful change. “I see it as I'm setting an example for other athletes… they can use their fame or their voice actually to make real change.”

His involvement in these discussions has been driven by his desire to make a difference, not just for athletes but for anyone who could benefit from cannabis.

Alternative Medicine and Preventative Health

Williams' passion for alternative medicine extends beyond cannabis. After retiring from the NFL, he studied different forms of alternative wellness, and he now advocates for a preventative approach to health. "The big thing… is that most alternative medicines focus on keeping us healthy, rather than waiting for the disease to manifest," Williams said. He believes this approach can inspire others to focus on health and well-being rather than treating disease after it occurs.

Williams' journey—from professional football to cannabis advocate and wellness entrepreneur—continues to shape the conversation about cannabis, both in sports and in broader society.

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