Mt. Hebron HS Football Players Kick Off The School Year With Waverly Elementary Students

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — To help kick off the school year, members of the Mt. Hebron High School football team paid a special visit to Waverly Elementary School students Sept. 8. The students were thrilled to spend time with the high schoolers.

“The past year was a challenging one for many of our students,” WAVES Principal Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket said. “We’re hoping that by providing them the opportunity to meet and get to know older students – many of whom are excellent athletes, high academic achievers and dedicated to helping the community – we are helping them to identify and connect with positive role models. To many of our students, these players are like celebrities. We want them to get comfortable having them around, so that they can interact with them naturally and build meaningful relationships.”

The JV and varsity football players read to the students, played math games and participated in other group activities. School officials hope to pair WAVES students with individual players who will check in with the kids to make sure they're staying focused on their schoolwork and even help with homework.

“We want to provide students with another source of support and encouragement,” MHHS Head Football Coach Shawn Frederick said. “We want them to know that we are there to cheer them on and help them succeed.”

MHHS football team captain Everett Armstead said he's excited about the program.

“It’s so important to have people in your life to look up to. I am proud to serve as a role model for these younger students," Armstead said.