Finish!
That was the word of the day on Saturday as former Ravens and current New York Giants linebacker Jameel McClain returned to Baltimore to host his annual free football camp.
More than 430 youths were in attendance at Reisterstown Regional Park, as McClain and several area football coaches conducted football drills to help the youngsters further their football knowledge.
McClain, who played for the Ravens from 2008-2013 has remained heavily involved in the community even after signing with the Giants in 2014.
“I do believe in this community strongly,” remarked McLain when asked about why he remains so active in his charity efforts in Maryland. “Im happy to grow with these kids that are here. There are so many familiar faces here and I don’t want this to be something kids miss out on since I’m no longer here.”
“I want to always be that constant reminder of positivity.”
Joining McClain at the camp was Ravens defensive coordinator Dean Pees who was happy to help one of his former pupils in his community effort.
“What Jameel meant to me and what Jameel meant to the Ravens,” said Pees about his involvement with McClain for the special event. “We text back and forth all the time. I’ve coached a lot of players over 45 years and I have got to say he is absolutely one of my favorites because of the type of person he is.”
McClain and Pees carry on their relationship much like he does with several teammates that have supported his efforts over the years.
“It just shows what an amazing man he is,” remarked McClain about Dean Pees being present on Saturday. “It also shows how I feel about relationships. It’s just me and I’m always going to be myself and will always respect people and care about them no matter what area code I’m in.
“It’s always about being a genuine person. To have coach Pees and coach Harbaugh, guys that support me day in and day out allow me to be the person that I am.”
Prompted by overcoming his own adversity throughout his childhood and even during his years playing in Baltimore, McClain wants to give what he didn’t have when he was younger.
Each summer McClain hosts his annual football camp, a back to school event in which his “53 Families” Foundation outfits groups of youths with school supplies along with his “53 Families” holiday event each November.
McClain’s efforts in the community have been an honor to cover year in and year out. His charity work is something that is second to none. While he may not play in Baltimore anymore, he continues to show why he will always be a Raven at heart.
All the best Jameel!
For more info on Jameel’s 53 Families Foundation click HERE.
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