Wan’Dale Robinson, an NFL wide receiver, was born to Charles Dale Robinson and Victoria Davis. His journey to football stardom was shaped not just by his own determination but also by the challenges and experiences of his parents. Here’s a closer look at the lives of Wan’Dale’s father, Charles Dale Robinson, and his mother, Victoria Davis.

Wan’Dale Robinson’s Father: Charles Dale Robinson

Charles Dale Robinson had a tumultuous past that significantly influenced Robinson’s early years. When he was just five years old, his father was incarcerated for the first time. To protect him from the harsh reality, his mother told Wan’Dale that his father was away at school. Dale served nearly four years of a 72-month sentence before being released, but his troubles were far from over.

In July 2007, Dale was arrested again, this time in Lexington, Kentucky, and faced a possible 40-year federal prison sentence. He eventually pled guilty in 2008, and informing his then 7-year-old son about the 10-year sentence was a heart-wrenching moment. Dale recalls sitting with police officers, feeling devastated and unsure of how to explain his situation to Robinson. “It was like my world came to an end. My head’s down. I’m sick, I’m depressed, I’m sad, I’m upset at myself, and all I’m thinking about is what am I going to tell my child,” he said.

This news was difficult for young Wan’Dale Robinson, and both father and son wept together. Despite the sadness, Dale made a commitment to himself: “You’ve got to come back a better man, you’ve got to come back a better father, not just for your kids, but for you and your community.” Dale fulfilled that promise, and in July 2015, he was released from prison. He now runs G.U.R.U. Fitness and authored the book The Making of a Guru. “It means the world that he’s here,” Robinson said, appreciating his father’s presence and the influence Dale has had on his life.

Dale had his own football background, having played at Franklin County High School in Frankfort and later as a backup quarterback at Western Kentucky under Jack Harbaugh. His potential was cut short by personal struggles, and after his mother, Wanda Joyce Robinson, passed away at 45 from heart disease, his problems deepened. Eventually, Dale found redemption and now dedicates his life to helping others through fitness and motivational speaking.

Wan’Dale Robinson’s Mother: Victoria Davis

Victoria Davis, or Vicki, played a pivotal role in raising Wan’Dale Robinson while dealing with her own health challenges. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the age of 25, Vicki still managed to support her son’s football dreams. From an early age, it was clear that Wan’Dale was gifted, and his parents recognized his talent. In fact, when Wan’Dale was five, his parents found a creative way for him to play tackle football in Louisville by using another child’s birth certificate since he wasn’t old enough to officially join.

Vicki fondly recalls her son’s speed and determination, traits that have carried him to football stardom. “Since he started walking, they have called him speedy,” Vicki said. Despite her health struggles, Vicki was always there for her son, even visiting Dale frequently during his imprisonment and making sure Robinson maintained a close bond with his father.

However, managing life as the mother of a rising football star wasn’t easy. Robinson recognized the sacrifices his mother made, and her battles with multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia only deepened his commitment to football. “Once I got old enough and realized football is something I can use to give my mom everything she wants and everything we’ve talked about, that’s why I play football,” Wan’Dale Robinson explained. “All for my mom.”

Vicki’s unwavering support for her son throughout his high school years and beyond has been a crucial factor in his success. Though Wan’Dale Robinson’s father missed much of his childhood, Vicki was the constant presence, helping him navigate life’s challenges and shaping him into the person he is today.