We could also share information about agents and financial advisors, which was a real concern when Jonathan was drafted. Jonathan Ogden is proud of what his mother has accomplished and sees the group as having a significant role. Now, a mother can pick up the phone and call somebody. That's one of the biggest benefits. Bringing mothers in to the association is complicated by the fact that not only are the women affiliated with 31 different teams, but they don't necessarily live in the areas where their sons play.
Players changing teams frequently also adds to the challenge.
Currently much of the recruiting is done at a very grass-roots level, with members seeking out other mothers at the draft and at each game and passing out brochures about the association. Charlene McNabb is the association's vice president. When her son Donovan McNabb, quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles, was drafted in 1999, things started happening fast and furiously. Upon arriving in Philadelphia to get her son settled prior to his rookie season, McNabb was contacted by Linda Harrison, a Philadelphia resident and mother of Marvin Harrison of the Indianapolis Colts. Harrison offered McNabb guidance and assistance on everything from where to find certain necessities for Donovan, to where to get her hair done.