NFL players come to Alabama to catch the ball and a few hearts
Campers stretch in the Ability Academy hosted in Birmingham. (Contributed)
Have you ever wanted to run down the 50-yard line with NFL players? Nearly 100 people were given that chance recently.
The Arc of Jefferson County and former UAB football player Matt McCants hosted the second annual Ability Academy in Birmingham. Carolina Panthers quarterback Joe Webb and Pittsburgh Steelers guard Chris Hubbard contributed their knowledge of football.
Campers began their morning in matching shirts, stretching their muscles in preparation for practice.
The NFL players taught them how to catch and pass. Attendees were given the opportunity to play offense or defense and they learned how to score while using the football terminology that McCants encouraged.
“It’s so sweet to be able to see people with intellectual disabilities being able to feel like they are a part of a team,” said Mary Frances Colley, ARC of Jefferson County director of Development.
The mini-camp was held on the freshly cut grass of Samford University’s Seibert Stadium while spectators cheered. “Some family members truly enjoyed getting to be hands-off and to sit back and watch,” said Colley.
Since the start last year, the players have raised over $16,000 for people with intellectual disabilities in Alabama. They plan to host the event again next summer.
