On the hottest day of the year so far, Tuesday, June 23, the Baltimore Ravens held a mini clinic at Calvert High School. There were over 200 youngsters from the Southern Maryland area, all anxious to “Play Like a Raven.” The clinic was held for 6 to 14 year olds. The mini clinic helps beginners learn the basics while helping veteran players continue to improve!
Billy Saunders, President of Prince Frederick Eagles football team, organized the event with Adam Rudell of the Raven Community Relations office. When Billy became involved with USA Footballs’ Heads Up “Safe Tackling” initiative, he had met Rudell and connected with him. Billy made the introduction to Coach Rick Sneade of Calvert High School and was then able to schedule the event with Sneade and Nate Smith of Calvert County Parks and Rec.
Ravens lead youth football instructor, Coach Tom, guided players through over two hours of high energy passing, catching, running, throwing, blocking, and tackling activities with additional coaching help from Pro Bowler and Ravens Ring of Honor running back Jamal Lewis and fellow Super Bowl XXXV champion, Brad Jackson.
The Ravens’ Mascot “Poe” ran the football field enthusiastically, making sure all the youngsters had a chance to meet and greet him. During practice, the Baltimore Ravens DJ kept the music flowing, only stopping to make announcements and give out prizes. And after practice, the young football hopefuls had a chance to get an autographed picture of some Ravens’ Super Bowl Heroes.
Speaking with Matt Little, Marketing and Football Outreach Manager, regarding all the signs with “Rise”, he said “it is the Ravens’ outreach programs for youth. It is to expand the reach and interact with our fans. We will be doing three more this week.”
Margit Miller / Calvert Beacon
Pictures by Margit Miller and Dave Payne
