KANSAS CITY, Kan. — As the Kansas City Chiefs geared up for their third consecutive Super Bowl appearance, one of their own, defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi, took a unique approach by coaching a puppy for a special event. Alongside his girlfriend, Nani Hinton, Nnadi visited The Humane Society of Greater Kansas City in October to mentor Parsnip, a 4-month-old mixed breed, in preparation for his participation in Puppy Bowl XXI.
“I’m his coach. I am putting him through rigorous training,” Nnadi commented during their visit. “It’s a process; he’s a young pup with lots of raw potential, but he’s destined to shine.”
Launched in 2005, the “Puppy Bowl” serves as a playful alternative to the Super Bowl while also advocating for pet adoption. The event showcases over 100 dogs from various shelters and rescue organizations across the nation, with the canines scoring points by crossing a goal line with toys on a faux football field.
When Parsnip arrived at The Humane Society in August, he was recuperating from a broken leg. “Parsnip is a sweet little pup,” said Sydney Mollentine, president and CEO of The Humane Society of Greater Kansas City, in October. “He has been in foster care for around eight weeks while his leg healed, and now he’s able to run around and play without any issues.”
Nnadi noted that Parsnip’s attention span needed improvement. “You’ll see a little squirrel, and he’s gone. He sees a toy, and he’s off. He notices multiple people, and he’s out of there,” Nnadi remarked, often calling Parsnip “Parsnickety.” “Once we manage to get his focus locked in, he’s going to be amazing.”
Filmed ahead of time, the “Puppy Bowl” has since seen Parsnip find a forever home, according to Mollentine. The pup is now seven months old and thriving.
Nnadi’s charitable efforts over the years have facilitated the adoption of over 500 dogs by covering their adoption fees, collaborating with local organizations such as The Humane Society and KC Pet Project. “I believe it’s crucial for many of these dogs that don’t have the chance to know what a forever home feels like,” Nnadi expressed.
His passion for animal rescues began with the adoption of his own dog, Rocky. “He was quite timid when I first got him. I didn’t like how he had been living; he wasn’t exposed to many people, and he felt scared often,” Nnadi shared. Through patience and care, he helped Rocky develop confidence, transforming him into the joyful dog he is now.
“I truly believe everyone should have at least one furry friend in their lives,” Nnadi stated.
Mollentine expressed gratitude for Nnadi’s support in promoting pet adoptions. The Humane Society of Greater Kansas City has been serving the community since 1912 and continues to benefit from such efforts.
Puppy Bowl XXI is set to air on Sunday at 2 p.m. EST on Animal Planet, just before Nnadi steps onto the field with the Chiefs for Super Bowl LIX.
