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'One of the best kept secrets in the church': Former BYU running back thrilled to be part of Genesis Group leadership

Tom Smart, Deseret News

Jamal Willis carries the ball during a football game in 1994. Willis played running back for BYU from 1991-94 and joined the LDS Church during his college career.

SALT LAKE CITY — Being called to serve in the new Genesis Group presidency came as a shock to Jamal Willis.

First of all, Willis was invited to the LDS Church's multicultural activity organization years before, but the former Brigham Young University and NFL running back never attended.

Second, it's not like any calling you read about in the church handbook. He didn't know what to expect, he said.