ERIE, PA (WJET) – A neighborhood highschool soccer subject was full of athletes Saturday as a McDowell graduate turned NFL star returned to Erie for his third annual soccer camp this weekend.
About 300 youth footballers had the possibility to be taught from this skilled athlete.
McDowell grad and Arizona Cardinals Operating Again James Conner held their annual free soccer camp at McDowell's Gus Anderson Discipline.
Athletes from third grade to highschool seniors obtained to coach like a professional for the day.
“I felt good as a result of I obtained my shirt signed and it's enjoyable. We obtained to do actions and stuff, in order that's why I like spending time with James Conner.”
Carmello Edmond, Youth Camp participant
“It means loads to me. It exhibits me that any individual has accomplished it, so I do know I can do it too… I'm hoping to get higher, like my footwork and stuff, my endurance and my agility, so in order that I can transfer higher on the sphere.”
Domynick Naylor, Youth Camp Participant
Conner and his group led the youngsters by means of quite a lot of drills, giving them suggestions and tips for the sport.
JET24 sports activities reporter Ashley Kaiser requested Conner, “Right now, once you're preparing for an upcoming season and moving into it, how good is it to have a second to do one thing enjoyable with the youngsters and bear in mind what did you become involved with? this sport within the first place?”
“Yeah, it's like a humble reminder, you realize? It retains you humble to return right here with these youngsters, particularly in my hometown. I’ve my household and buddies, shut buddies that I grew up with right here. They assist me run the stations and what not… you realize guys I wrestled with in highschool and now we're right here to help the youngsters and do it collectively. It's particular, particularly on this day without work earlier than an enormous yr.”
James Conner, McDowell Grad- Arizona Cardinals Operating Again
Conner is coming off his first NFL season by which he had 1,000 dashing yards.
As he prepares for the upcoming coaching camp in Arizona, Kaiser requested Conner about internet hosting this abilities camp again on his dwelling turf and what it means to him.
JET24 sports activities reporter Ashley Kaiser requested Conner, “Did they are saying something particular that can stand out at this time?”
“Yeah, a few of them say you realize you're my favourite participant and whatnot and all that stuff. they give the impression of being as much as me as a result of I'm from Erie identical to them. I really like being that function mannequin and being the instance that they’ll do it identical to me. I'm only a child from Erie, so attempt to be an instance for them.”
James Conner, McDowell Grad- Arizona Cardinals Operating Again
Conner says reaching a milestone in his profession is a superb achievement, however inspiring the subsequent era is priceless.