The road to the NFL Draft is a fulfilling experience but among the glitz and glamour is hard work and sacrifice. So for the select Draft prospects leading more than 125 local middle school students in a Play60 Football Clinic and 750 local middle school students in the Character Playbook Hour, this provided them with an opportunity to ‘let go’ and have fun.
Participating students had the opportunity to play alongside prospects that included Lamar Jackson, Shaqueem Griffin, Josh Rosen, Josh Allen, Vita Vea, Denzel Ward, and more. The prospects were split into two groups which allowed them to take part in both events.
Photo Credit: Michael Johnson
During the Play60 clinic, participants learned on-field techniques and received instruction from prospects at various non-contact football skills and drills stations, including passing, receiving and agility.
Play 60 is designed to engage and empower youth to take action for their own health by implementing long-term, positive changes for themselves and their schools. The program additionally encourages youth to consume nutrient-rich foods and achieve at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day.
Photo Credit: Michael Johnson
Simultaneously, the NFL and the United Way hosted the Character Playbook Hour inside AT&T Stadium. With Dallas Cowboys center Travis Frederick and Cowboys Legend Demarcus Ware as emcee, teams of local students were partnered with a group of Draft prospects to answer questions and complete quick challenges to vie for the title of Character Champion.
The game show questions were meant to also teach the students life lessons. When discussing patience, Demarcus Ware shared some words of wisdom: “When you have patience some things won’t go your way. When you have that patience you’ll always be able to overcome and go through things to accomplish a goal. So I think being patience is awesome.”
Following the Game Show, Ware spoke to students and participated in a Q&A discussion with Frederick and the prospects on character and healthy relationships.
For Derrius Guice, both events were a nice break from the scrutiny and spotlight he has received since his road to the Draft began. It was a moment that gave him permission to be himself and allow his personality to shine through.
“I had a great time with the kids today. They loved me. It was fun. We were jumping around, having a great time,” said Guice.
Photo Credit: Michael Johnson
Based on the smiles and laughs seen throughout the day, it was clear everyone was letting go and taking it all in. Even if it was for a brief moment, there was a sense of normalcy and the ability to be a kid again. Then just like that the media took over the field and it was back to business as usual.
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