On Saturday, local kids came out for the second annual Free Football and Skills Camp sponsored by Fitgang@7gang Academy and the Chester McGlockton Scholarship Foundation.
The camp was held at Central Middle School in Whiteville. The campers were led by many former professional NFL players, former college football players, local area coaches and standout athletes. Instructors included Donnell Woolford, a Douglas Byrd standout who went on to be a two-time All-American at Clemson, was a 1st round draft pick and All-Pro cornerback for the Chicago Bears. He also played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Carolina Panthers.
Kelcey Quarles, an All-American out of South Carolina, played six years in the NFL for the Patriots, Colts, and Browns.
Chris Corders was a standout receiver for N.C. State back in the late 1980’s under Dick Sheridan.
Whiteville’s own local hero, Patrick Lennon, was 1986 NCHSAA Player of the Year and a former first round draft pick in baseball in 1986 from the Seattle Mariners. He played for Kansas City, Oakland, and Toronto later in his career.
The instructors started with valuable tools and life knowledge to the youth.
“It’s inside you! I’m looking at greatness!” Lennon said. Other talked about education, faith, work ethic and enthusiasm.
The camp is held in memory of someone special: Chester McGlockton. The local Whiteville standout led the Wolfpack to an undefeated State Championship in 1987. He attended Clemson after graduation where he was an All-American. 19992 he was drafted in the first round by the Los Angeles Raiders. He also played at Kansas City, Denver, and the New York Jets. McGlockton made the Pro-Bowl four times. He passed away in November 2011.
Chester’s brother Leon spoke about how much this camp means his family and him.
“Chester would have wanted this,” Leon said. “We will continue to do this each year for as long as we can.”
Roosevelt Colson III of Fitgang@7gang Academy emphasized that the camp is free.
“Where can you get this kind of knowledge and instruction for free?” He’s hoping for a larger turnout next year and more community involvement.
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