A vibrant gathering took place at the D1 Training Facility on an early Saturday morning in March, where numerous young athletes participated in the Shreveport Youth Football Camp. This event brought together budding talents eager to learn and grow under the guidance of seasoned professionals. Among those present was Anthony Lamar Dixon, a defensive back for the Rouxgaroux, who expressed how interacting with these children reinvigorated his passion for the sport. The focus of the camp was not just about physical drills but also instilling foundational skills essential for football success.
Through various exercises designed to enhance fundamental techniques, both players and coaches enthusiastically shared their expertise with the next generation. Daquan Richie, a wide receiver for the Rouxgaroux, emphasized the importance of sportsmanship alongside technical proficiency. He highlighted that equipping these youngsters with strong fundamentals would ensure they are well-prepared as they progress through high school and college levels. Additionally, this initiative aimed to strengthen community ties by allowing participants to engage directly with local figures within Shreveport’s sports scene.
Richard Rodgers, CEO of the Rouxgaroux, envisioned cultivating loyalty among aspiring athletes towards their hometown team rather than distant franchises. Following the intensive training sessions led by the Rouxgaroux members, there remains an ongoing encouragement for campers to build upon what they’ve learned. Dixon consistently advocated for fierce competition while maintaining enjoyment in the game, asserting that striving for excellence pushes everyone involved to achieve their utmost potential. Looking ahead, excitement continues beyond this initial camp experience; upcoming events such as kids/superhero night promise further opportunities for growth and connection when attendees participate in flag football games at halftime during future matches against teams like the Wheeling Miners.