Embracing His Status as a Role Model, Giants All-Pro WR Odell Beckham Jr. Hosts Second Annual Football Camp for Kids

UNION, NJ – Odell Beckham Jr. has been in the spotlight throughout his three-year career with the New York Giants as he routinely makes highlight reel catches while setting franchise and league records in the process.

Naturally, his success on the football field has translated to a fandom that is among the best around the league. That was on full display on Saturday afternoon when he hosted his second annual Citi Odell Beckham Jr. ProCamp at Kean University with approximately 600 kids in attendance.

Beckham, 24, provided instruction to children from grades 1-8 on the fundamentals of football through various drills at different stations with the assistance of coaches and trainers. After clocking kids in the 40-yard dash, he participated in some scrimmage games at the end of the camp.

“Each one of the kids has a smile on their faces and we’re out here having fun,” Beckham said during the media session of his football camp. “This is what it’s about. It’s truly a blessing to be able to come here and (mentor) 600 kids.”

“It kind of reminds you why you do it,” he continued. “The same love and joy that they have is the same thing that’s got me to where I’m at. I like being able to inspire kids to be whoever they want to be.”

The fourth-year wide receiver recalled a similar experience as a 10-year-old kid when he met one of his idols, Allen Iverson, at the Georgia Dome following a halftime football game in which he participated in. After the game, Beckham’s team took a picture with Iverson and he described the experience as ‘surreal.’

“I remember being in those shoes not so long ago,” said Beckham, who explained it was a ‘responsibility’ to be a good role model. “Now being in my shoes now, it’s a whole different experience.”

Anthony Pasquale, 12, of West Orange was among those who enjoyed the camp.

“It was such a great experience for me learning how to play football from one of the NFL greats,” said Pasquale. “As a Giants fan, it was cool to see a different side of Odell than him as a player.”

Earlier this month, Beckham was dubbed by his newest teammate Brandon Marshall, a six-time Pro Bowler as ‘the biggest superstar in the history of football.’

Beckham had nothing but praise for the 11-year NFL veteran on Saturday afternoon.

“It’s great to have someone to talk to who knows the in-and-outs of the NFL business,” suggested Beckham. “He’s a tremendous talent and I’m really looking forward to see what we’re going to be able to do this year.”

Through his first three seasons, Beckham has hauled in a record-setting 288 catches (tied for most all-time in the first three seasons) with 4,122 yard and 35 touchdowns. However, he has even bigger expectations for the upcoming year.

“I think this might be the most (prepared I’ve been) in my lifetime,” he said as he prepares for his fourth season. “Mentally, physically, spiritually, everything – I don’t think I’ve ever been as ready as I am now.”

“I’m going to take it one day at a time and get better each and every day.