July 14, 2007 – Freeport, Grand Bahama
The 2nd Annual Devard Darling Football Camp was all that it was expected to be and more! (See Photo Gallery) The camp took place just last week, Monday, July 9 through Friday, July 13 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Freeport Rugby Football Club.
With nearly 20 donors and sponsors, over 40 coaches and volunteers, and a very supportative local community; the As One Foundation was able to accomplish the goal it set out to accomplish— to make this camp one of the best experiences for young Bahamian boys and girls wishing to learn the sport of American football.
We were hoping to entice the interest of at least 150 young Bahamians age 11 to 16; this goal was not only met but exceeded—we had over 165 children register! All participants received free gifts and equipment, instruction by some of the best U.S. football coaches, and were given an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet three National Football League (N.F.L.) players. In addition to Devard Darling who was a coach for the entire duration of the camp; New York Jets players, D’Brickashaw Ferguson, Offensive Tackle, and Erik Colemen, Safety, were able to come and provide their some coaching expertise and autograph the participant’s memorabilia.
This camp meets one very important core value of the As One Foundation; to provide more opportunities through athletic endeavors. However, there was one very important aspect of the camp many may not have been aware of; As One Foundation seeks to also provide more opportunities through educational programming—also one of their core values. In order to meet this core philosophy, camp organizers brought in Mel Ferguson with CA Sports, Inc. Mr. Ferguson talked with the campers about the opportunities they have beyond high school. Four children were admitted into his program and will look to enter a college program with the assistance of Mr. Ferguson and his company in the next few years!
The camp ended on a special note; several individuals were honored with certificates and gifts acknowledging their outstanding ability, the Miami Dolphins were crowned the 2007 Darling Bowl Champions, and this year’s Camp MVP was named! Fourteen year old, Demitri Knowles was voted by the camp coaches as the 2007 Camp MVP. Demitri showed outstanding ability as a young football player, showed great respect for coaches and administrators, actively participated in all camp activities, and most importantly, Demitri was eager to learn the game of American Football! Demitri and one parent or guardian will be flown out to Baltimore, Maryland during the season and spend the weekend with Devard Darling and his family. Hotel accommodations, ground transportation, dinner, two sideline passes, and two Baltimore Ravens game tickets will be provided!
Devard and the As One Foundation plan to return again next year; make sure to continue to check the website at www.asonefoundation.org for updates and details!