BOWIE STATE ATHLETICS: Members of the Bowie State football team spent time at Whitehall Elementary School as a part of their service to the community on Wednesday, Apr. 19. The goal of the initial visit served as a meet and greet with the intent to establish the parameters for a future mentor program between Whitehall Elementary School and the Bowie State football program.
Whitehall Elementary School is one of one hundred and twenty three elementary schools within the Prince George’s County Public Schools System and is located in Bowie MD roughly three miles from the Bowie State University campus.
During the visit, student-athletes spent time building rapport and engaging fifth graders in conversation during their lunch period. Additionally, students participated in a roundtable discussion regarding the significance of taking their education seriously in an effort to encourage literacy. During the roundtable discussion, BSU football student-athletes asked students about school and their interests, as well as answered an array of questions ranging from college academics, football, personal goals, training and diet, to specific position related techniques.
“It was a great experience seeing those guys’ faces light up! Some of them did not even finish their lunch because they were so excited. I definitely love giving back to the community that serves me. It is always a great feeling when you bring joy to a kid’s life who wants to one day be in your shoes or even larger!”
– Freshman Defensive Back Jevon Hamilton
“It was a great experience for me. There is nothing that feels better than being able to give back to the younger generation. In order to keep legacies going, you have to give back and I am more than happy that I had the opportunity to do so.”
– Sophomore Wide Receiver Shawn Waller
“Going to the elementary school was a great opportunity to reach out to the youth and build relationships within the community. My teammates and I had an amazing time speaking to the students. We spoke to them about many topics but the importance of keeping excellent grades and staying consistent in all aspects of their personal lives was our focus.”
– Junior Offensive Lineman Kaleb Chester
“It was a great experience to be able to inspire kids and speak to them about football and life. I am looking forward to our next visit”
– Freshman Defensive Back Malachi Herring
“It was truly rewarding witnessing the positive interaction that took place between our student athletes and the students at Whitehall Elementary. I was extremely pleased and fulfilled, as I observed the reaction of the elementary school students who were full of excitement when they entered the school library. It was even more rewarding seeing members of the football program have a sense of purpose while pouring into the scholars there and taking ownership of the visit. Our student athletes immediately, upon leaving, expressed looking forward to remaining involved with the elementary students in the future semesters and appreciate the hard work as well as collaboration of everyone involved to make the visit a rewarding experience.”
– Defensive Coordinator Avery Williams
For the most up-to-date information on Bowie State Athletics and its 13 varsity sport teams, visit bsubulldogs.com.
