As a kid, there was no greater feeling than to hear the school bell ring for recess. At the moment the bell sounded, my classmates and I sprinted out the door and to the blacktop. There I had many unforgettable moments – like catching a game-tying touchdown during our school’s Annual Super Bowl over lunchtime.
So when Oakland Raiders Michael Huff, Mike Mitchell and Tyvon Branch popped in on the 215 students of Garfield Elementary in Oakland for a game of football, it was a joy to watch the Kindergarteners – 5th graders light-up with smiles, cheers, and an overwhelming feeling of excitement as they engaged with players from their favorite football team.
Oakland Raiders Taught Elementary School Kids the Importance of Fitness
Before taking the field, the three Raiders took the stage as everyone in the nearly filled cafeteria incessantly cheered on the visiting celebrities. Michael Huff then shared with the students the importance of leading an active lifestyle and long-term benefits of fitness. He then surprised seven exemplary students and leaders with autographed footballs – high-fiving and exchanging smiles with each of them as he called them up. The 215 students then hit the blacktop where the Raiders helped lead them through toe touches, crazy-eights, jumping jacks, high-knees, stretches, and then a remarkable game of football.
On Tuesday, Garfield Elementary’s cafeteria and schoolyard housed a memorable afternoon for the young students. I imagine there was no better feeling for the children then to hear the school bell ring and know they would soon be interacting with and learning from three of their favorite Raiders. It was certainly an unforgettable afternoon for me!
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The Oakland Raiders visit to Garfield Elementary was part of Hometown Huddle, a national annual event between United Way and the NFL. The two have a long-standing relationship. A special thank you goes to UPS for providing event volunteers, Tesoro for providing backpacks and school supplies, and the East Bay Asian Youth Center and Oakland Parks and Recreation for their ongoing teen mentorship with Garfield Elementary students.
