Cornhuskers, Gamecocks Give Back At Day For Kids

Players and coaches from Nebraska and South Carolina met at DisneyQuest for Day for Kids, a charity event with the Florida Citrus Sports Foundation. The Cornhuskers and Gamecocks took time out of their Capital One Bowl preparations to spend some time with disadvantaged children from around Central Florida.

“You always want to give back,” said Nebraska head coach Bo Pellini. “The kids in our program understand that. A lot of them don’t come from a lot either. This gives them a chance to be around some kids who have also had a rough go of it.”

The children were paired off with players and set loose on DisneyQuest, a five-story arcade at Downtown Disney in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. From Buzz Lightyear’s Astroblasters on the third floor, down to the Virtual Jungle Cruise on the first, and up to Ride the Comix on the fourth, the kids and players raced around at a pace that might have made a regular practice session seem relaxed.

“This is an opportunity for our players to spend some time with some children here that have some special needs and from underprivileged backgrounds,” said South Carolina Head Coach Steve Spurrier.

Both coaches also noted the reciprocal nature of the charity event.

 “Our number one priority is the kids that we’re here to see but you can’t help but be touched,” said Pellini. “Hopefully our players come away from it really feeling grateful for every opportunity they’ve been given.”

 “We get a kick out of it,” said Spurrier. “It’s good for our players to visit these youngsters and hopefully bring a little happiness to themselves also.” 

Day For Kids is one of several programs run by the Florida Citrus Sports Foundation MVPs, the organization’s charitable arm. The Foundation p is committed to enhancing the quality of life for disadvantaged youth and families in Central Florida through these programs. You can read more about the Foundation here.

You can also contribute a $5.00 donation to Florida Citrus Sports Foundation by texting “MVPS” to 50555. Charges will appear on your wireless bill, or be deducted from your prepaid balance. All purchases must be authorized by account holder. Message and Data Rates May Apply. Text STOP to 50555 to STOP. Text HELP to 50555 for HELP. Full Terms: www.mGive.org/T. Privacy Policy

(Article by Neil Tredray)