HUNDREDS OF LOCAL YOUTHS TAKE THE FIELD AT YOUTH FOOTBALL CLINIC

Hundreds of youths from across the National Capital Region hit the field this past Saturday to take advantage of the opportunity of a lifetime, learning from top high school, college and pro football players and coaches at the 21st annual Youth Football Clinic sponsored by the Military Bowl Foundation and organized by Positive Choices Inc. at Deanwood Recreation Center in Northeast Washington.

The clinic was free and open to children in first through eighth grades.

Participants received expert on- and off-field training as they focused on a variety of skills, from tackling and blocking to nutrition and conditioning.

“It was amazing to watch these kids soak up everything that was shared with them,” said Positive Choices CEO Aazaar Abdul-Rahim, who is the co-defensive coordinator and associate head coach for defense at the University of Maryland and led the clinic. “We are fortunate to have so many top coaches and players who want to pass on the benefit of their experience to the next generation of stars. I have no doubt that some of the youngsters running around the field today will be making big tackles and scoring important touchdowns in the next few years.”

Among the NFL players working the clinic were Washington Commanders defensive lineman Eddie Goldman, Los Angeles Chargers running back Jaret Patterson, Arizona Cardinals defensive back Elijah Jones, Jacksonville Jaguars defensive backs Christian Braswell and Darnell Savage Jr., Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Rakim Jarrett, Tennessee Titans offensive lineman Jaelyn Duncan, Los Angeles Rams defensive back Josh Wallace and seven-year NFL veteran Teez Tabor. 

The clinic included on-field skill work as well as motivational sessions following a complimentary lunch.

“The Military Bowl Foundation is a proud longtime supporter of Positive Choices and its impact in the community,” Military Bowl Foundation President & Executive Director Steve Beck said. “In the same spirit that the Military Bowl is committed to the mission of supporting the nation’s service members, Positive Choices is committed to the mission of helping youth in the National Capital Region. We are thrilled to work with such an outstanding community partner.”

The Clinic was sponsored in part by Events DC and the DC Department of Parks and Recreation.