Former, current NFL players teach camp

FORT BENNING, Ga., (July 22, 2015) -- Over 450 children from across Fort Benning had the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of football July 18 during a free football camp hosted by current and former National Football League players.

The players, who represent teams like the Philadelphia Eagles, Cleveland Browns, San Francisco 49ers, Jacksonville Jaguars and Kansas City Chiefs, volunteer their time and expertise. They are partners with Pigskin Patriots - a nonprofit organization whose goal is to support service members and their kids.

"We want to create a day that these kids can remember forever, and just give back," said Chad Hall, co-founder of Pigskin Patriots, Air Force Veteran and former NFL player. "As a veteran myself, I relate strongly to the Families here, and I've always wanted the chance to show that with my talents. These camps give me that opportunity."

Hall said the purpose of the camp is to instruct children in the fundamentals of football while building character and instilling basic core values.

"We have six core values - integrity, service, excellence, respect, leadership and perseverance," Hall said. "And a third of the camp, we sit them down, and we have these NFL athletes emphasize and teach those core values to the kids."

The NFL players provided position-specific instruction from different stations during the physical part of the camp.

There were multiple competitions throughout the day, and the kids were put through an obstacle course and other challenges.

"I have known Chad Hall for years, and I love working with him," said Mohamed Massaquoi, retired NFL player who most recently played with the Cleveland Browns. "He gives us the opportunity to give back to the men and women who sacrifice so much for our country by just spending a day with their kids."

Six year old Cody Davis, one of the children who attended the event, said it was his "favorite day" of summer vacation.

"This is the most fun I've had all summer," Cody said. "I love football and its fun being able to hang out with real players like you see on TV. They showed me how to tackle better. Now I can tackle my brother even though he is bigger than me."

John Tetraout, also six years old, enjoyed the camp as well and said he liked getting to hear about veterans who play professional football.

"I want to join the Army when I grow up, just like my dad," Jonathan said. "But I also want to play football. So I found out I can do both and that seems like a good deal to me."

The Pigskin Patriots travel to installations all around the country providing free camps, and hope to someday travel to installations all over the world, Hall said.