(April 24, 2008) -- “Flag Football rocks!” exclaimed eleven-year-old Ashley of Public School 95. Ashley was one of over 1,000 New York City students who participated in the NFL’s Play 60 Youth Football Festival presented by Nike Let Me Play.
Top NFL Draft prospects joined players from the New York Giants, New York Jets, Buffalo Bills and Philadelphia Eagles for two days in Central Park to play Flag football with kids from 33 NYC schools and show them the importance of staying fit and being active for at least 60 minutes a day.
Draft prospect Matt Ryan, a Boston College QB, enjoyed the sunny afternoon in the park and even broke a sweat. “It was a ton of fun to play with the children today. The kids really enjoyed it, but I think the players enjoyed it even more.”
Glenn Dorsey, another prospect and a DT from Louisiana State, agreed with Ryan. “I see myself in these kids,” Dorsey said, “It was great to see the smile on their faces. I played quarterback – a position I never get to do! I wish I got to meet NFL players as a kid.”
Participants of the Play 60 Youth Football Festival, alongside the players, learned the basics of NFL Flag football through small 3-on-2 scrimmages, focusing on skills like passing, catching, agility and flag grabbing.
Players also had a chance to talk to kids about how they stay active. “I like being outdoors,” said Giants RB Reuben Droughns, “this includes hiking and camping.”
“It was a great joy to show these children the importance of keeping in shape and staying fit,” said prospect Darren McFadden, a University of Arkansas RB, who boasts the ability to do 50 push-ups.
Developing healthy habits includes supplementing daily exercise with healthy snacks. The players shared their favorite healthy snacks with the kids. “I love fruit!” said Ryan, “I’m a fan of apples, oranges and grapes.” “Bananas for potassium!” Dorsey agreed.
The excited youngsters also listened to advice from NFL legend and retired Green Bay Packers QB Brett Favre. Favre visited with the kids and shared words of wisdom to kids who aspire to reach NFL. “Whatever your dreams are, go for it. Dream big!”
