By Shaniece Nicole (IG: Shaniece_Nicole)
LONG BEACH, CA – Annually, the youth is invited to participate in a free football camp at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Long Beach, CA. In the past, this event has been pioneered by New York Giants wide receiver John Ross III. His presence in the community is unwavering and unmatched as he continues to inspire black youth and peers.
This year’s camp was nothing short of Ross’s mission of instilling values of integrity and accountability in the community through the game of football. He partnered with 25-year-old Green Bay Packers cornerback Keisean Nixon who grew up in Compton, CA and together the hometown natives created a memorable event that will be remembered by campers for the rest of their lives. The day would consist of hands-on drills led by both Ross and Nixon, Las Vegas Raiders linebacker Jayon Brown, NFL running back Jeremy McNichols, and other notable trainers and athletes.
Campers would also enjoy a surprise visit from Super Bowl champion Donte Deayon from the Los Angeles Rams who was gracious enough to bring the Vince Lombardi Trophy along. NFL superstar and Los Angeles native DeSean Jackson was also present at the event.
The gridiron was filled with so much joy, community, and brotherhood. Similar to inner city youth, football players have to battle their way to success. Nothing is seamlessly given. Positions are earned and time and resources are scarce.
From the field to the neighborhood, both are met with an overbearing amount of resistance. Athletes like Nixon and Ross, have created a space in which resistance is lessened, and black kids have the fortitude to continuously grow. The truest test of an athlete is his willingness to inspire when nobody is watching and have the desire to push the community forward without rewards or compensation.
This past weekend was confirmation of how visibility can shift the direction of black youth into a positive.
