The final weekend of 2024 was a memorable one for young and aspiring football players in Alberta as they had the opportunity to train with professional players who shared their knowledge and skills. Around 150 kids from 40 teams across the province were invited to the camp, which was organized by New World Agency’s Jason Staroszik and featured current and former Edmonton Elks players. The camp, which started in 2017 as a one-off event, quickly gained popularity and became an annual tradition due to the high demand from players and parents. The coaching staff consisted of Elks players who were eager to give back to the community and help develop the next generation of football players.
The two-day event focused on building up participants’ skills, techniques, and sportsmanship through various drills and training sessions. Elks alum Ryan King and current quarterback Tre Ford were present at the camp to share their experiences and offer advice to the young athletes. Both players emphasized the importance of giving back to the community and serving as role models for the next generation of football players. They highlighted the impact that a mentor or coach had on their own careers and expressed their desire to pay it forward by inspiring and guiding young athletes towards success.
The presence and involvement of Elks players in the camp served as a source of motivation and inspiration for the young participants, who were able to learn from professionals who have excelled in the sport. The coaching staff’s dedication to the development of young players was evident through their commitment to providing quality instruction and guidance throughout the event. By sharing their knowledge and expertise, the Elks players were able to help the aspiring athletes improve their skills and gain valuable insights into what it takes to succeed in football.
The camp offered a unique opportunity for young football players to interact with and learn from experienced professionals in a supportive and encouraging environment. Participants were able to receive personalized instruction and feedback from the Elks players, allowing them to enhance their technical abilities and strategic understanding of the game. The emphasis on sportsmanship and teamwork further reinforced the importance of character development and leadership skills in addition to on-field performance. Overall, the camp provided a comprehensive and holistic approach to player development, focusing on both physical and mental aspects of the game.
As the camp came to a close, the young participants were filled with a sense of accomplishment and inspiration, having had the opportunity to train alongside some of the best in the business. The positive impact of the camp extended beyond the football field, instilling valuable life lessons and skills that will serve the participants well both on and off the field. The dedication and passion of the coaching staff, combined with the support and mentorship of the Elks players, created a supportive and empowering environment for young athletes to thrive and reach their full potential. The camp served as a reminder of the importance of mentorship, community support, and the power of sports to inspire and transform lives.
