The Tribune-Democrat
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Here’s a message for area Steelers fans who can’t stop brooding about the unacceptable behavior of quarterback Ben Roethlesberger and kicker Jeff Reed, and former receiver Santonio Holmes: Focus on the good deeds and commendable behavior of two local football greats.
Former NFL player Artrell Hawkins and current Arizona Cardinals running back LaRod Stephens-Howling are coming home to spend quality time with area high school players.
We’re not surprised. Both are class individuals who have made hometown folks proud.
They’ll share their expertise in things such as running and pass catching, blocking and tackling. But their mission here on June 17-19 goes beyond teaching on-field skills.
They’ll address issues such as leadership and community service, two subjects for which both have a profound knowledge.
“They want to give kids the opportunity to feel a sense of pride in their community,” said Jeanna Rizzo, a Windber native who is now Hawkins’ communications manager.
“Artrell feels that if it wasn’t for Johnstown and the people in the community, he wouldn’t be where he is today.”
That’s a message we’ve heard from him since early on in his pro football career, which included mostly time with the Cincinnati Bengals.
He’s been no stranger to Johnstown, making several trips a year here to visit family and friends.
We wouldn’t be surprised, either, if some other recognizable names and faces also showed up at the camp as an extra treat for participants.
Hawkins starred at Bishop McCort and played collegiately at the University of Cincinnati.
He now works in broadcasting.
Stephens-Howling played at Greater Johnstown High School and Pitt before turning pro.
The Summer Youth Football Camp will be based at Greater Johnstown and include players in grades 9-12 from nine area high schools.
The 100 participants were selected by their schools.
On the third day of camp, the players will spend the morning working on two local community projects – at Sandyvale Cemetery and at the Richard Mayer Riverswalk Trail.
The camp is being funded by Hawkins and NFL Charities. Others playing a role include the Lift Johnstown project, the Conemaugh Valley Conservancy, Moxham Renaissance Group, AmeriCorps and Young Professionals of the Alleghenies.
Our hat is off to all.
What a great opportunity for area athletes.
We know there are a lot of professional football players around this nation doing good things in their communities. We’re proud that Hawkins and Stephens-Howling are among them.
