More than 240 children attended the free event sponsored by The Bess Route Foundation, founded by former UH football star and Miami Dolphins player, Davone Bess. The football clinic offered a one day opportunity for participants, ages seven to 17, to be coached by professional athletes. Coaches in attendance included Darnell Arceneaux, Chris Brown, Micheal Carter, Laanui Correa, Nate Ilaoa, Jeremy Inferrea, Nate Jackson, Eddie Klineski, David Maeva, Vince Manuwai, Chad Owens, Maa Tanuvasa and Gerard Welch.
Mayor Bernard P. Carvalho, Jr. addressed the young athletes and offered a message about the importance of making the right choices and keeping an open mind.
"You can learn valuable lessons in life by listening to your family members and your mentors, such as coaches and community supporters. These are the people that will encourage and support you throughout your life," said Mayor Carvalho.
Representatives from the county’s Anti-Drug office were also in attendance to provide a presentation on alcohol prevention.
"Saturday was a fantastic opportunity to provide outreach to our community on a very important subject," said Brenda Jose of the Anti-Drug office. "I ran into a few of the kids over the weekend and "quizzed" them on what they learned. Thankfully, they remembered the important information from the presentation."
"The Anti-Drug team was very grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this event. A special Mahalo goes out to the Bess Route Foundation and the many volunteers who helped to coordinate this special day for the children," said Anti-Drug Coordinator Theresa Koki. "It was such a positive experience for everyone involved."
See the original article at: KHON2 Local News
