Football Team Mentors Youth

Story by Cat Bloedow Photos by Cat Bloedow & Maddalena LoRae

The Shorter University Hawks football team had the opportunity to practice with some of their biggest fans in October of 2021. These fans were associated with ESP You and Me, an organization that offers experiences of a lifetime to those with disabilities. Over 20 people, ranging from young children to young adults, came out to not only support the Hawks but to also become part of the Hawks football team for the day. For this particular event, ESP participants gained insight into the life of college studentathletes. During the Hawks’ practice session, the football players led the ESP You and Me participants through drills including throwing and receiving passes along with scoring touchdowns. Cam Shirley, a senior special education major, was the point person who connected the Shorter football team with ESP You and Me. Shirley commented that he loved the touchdown dances the kids performed when they ran into the end zone. Shirley said, “My favorite part was getting to see my football team autograph t-shirts. It brought smiles not only to the kids’ faces, but also to my teammates who haven’t had the chance to serve the community in such a significant way.” In bright blue letters, the t-shirts sported the words “Adapt and Overcome.” The honorary athletes made a positive impact on the Shorter football players. They learned that disabilities do not have to hinder individuals from having fun, accomplishing desires, and maneuvering obstacles that life places in their path. As practice came to a close, everyone gathered for a team picture and some pizza. An old adage says that a picture is worth a thousand words, and with that, the photos display a world of happiness beyond belief. This was a moment both the Shorter Hawks players and the ESP You and Me participants will always remember.

The Shorter Hawks mentor local youth and believe it is an honor to serve those in their local community. Photo by Maddalena LoRae

A student tosses around the football around with some of the Shorter Hawks quarterbacks. Photo by Cat Bloedow

Qwentravez Moss, a sophomore sport management major, autographs a t-shirt for a young participant. Photo by Maddalena LoRae