There are few men who can boast a resume quite as impressive as Troy Aikman. A seven-time Pro Bowl nominee with three Super Bowl wins under his belt, there’s no denying Aikman is the stuff of legends. We sat down to chat one sunny Dallas morning to get an inside peak into all things Troy – a proud father of two, a dedicated husband, and a true man of the people – Aikman is so much more than an iconic NFL player. We get started with our official opening question, “How do you define a Nobleman?” and Aikman’s answer quickly establishes his undeniable honor. “When I think of a Nobleman, I think of character and integrity, a statesman. I envision that as how someone carries themselves and treats people in all situations.”
Despite his massive success, Troy doesn’t credit his achievements to natural talents or gifts. “I’ve never felt like I was the most talented person, but I’m willing to work and do whatever required,” he explains, “and that has allowed me to do many of the things that I’ve done.” An impressive outlook on life, Troy’s advice for success is refreshingly simple. “I was having a conversation with my daughters at dinner about success and what it means to people. My advice is old school – there are no shortcuts and no excuses.” To Aikman, sheer determination and willingness to put in work is more impressive than any natural-born ability, a testament to the kind of man this football legend really is.
After leaving the NFL, Troy translated his success into new business ventures with impressive ease, crediting the work ethic instilled in him through years of athletic training. “My athletic career in general really prepared me, because from a young age you’re told by your coaches what you have to do and you do it, and that gets you where you want to go. That taught me the work ethic that’s carried me even now in my life.” From hosting television shows to working alongside a team of experts to create his own light beer, Troy has excelled in every field.
Outside of his busy schedule, Troy is a dedicated family man, a health enthusiast, and a committed philanthropist. “Being a dad was always really important to me. My girls are my proudest achievement.” With the creation of the Troy Aikman Foundation for Children in 1992, Troy worked to establish playrooms in children’s hospitals. “Kids could come into our playroom and escape their hospital beds, and really be kids. We found that those kids required less pain medicine, and there were real tangible benefits to the kids being able to just be happy and interact with other kids.”
The man, the myth, the legend, the three-time super bowl winner, and seven-time pro bowl nominee – it’s clear how Troy’s unending determination, hard work, and sheer drive to succeed have made Aikman who he is today – a true Nobleman by our standards.
Full article in-book only. Order your copy now. CLICK HERE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRETT ERICKSON
WORDS BY BENJAMIN M. ELLIS AND EMMA UNGARO
STYLING BY VICTOR DELEON
GROOMING BY HANNAH HANDSHY
ALL WARDROBE BY GATSBY – GATSBYSPORT.COM
SHOT ON LOCATION AT ROSEWOOD MANSION ON TURTLE CREEK
