Nebraska Gives Back At Day For Kids

The Nebraska Cornhuskers took a break from the practice fields and theme park visits this morning, spending time at the annual Capital One Bowl Day for Kids at DisneyQuest. The event connects players from both bowl teams with disabled and disadvantaged youth from all around Central Florida for a morning of fun at the Downtown Disney attraction.

“Any time you can reach out the the community and let people know you’re much more than just a football player, that you’re a person that really cares about your community that’s a big deal,” said running back Ameer Abdullah.

For safety PJ Smith, the Day for Kids is an integral part of his bowl experience.

“Giving back to the kids, giving back to the community, going out there and having fun with them, letting them know that anything is possible, putting a smile on their face – that’s the main thing.”

Throughout the day, whether it was playing classic arcade fare like skeeball or the latest 3D video games with the kids, it was clear that community service is a key part of the Nebraska football program. Charity work is not just a bowl week activity for the Huskers.

“As a team, we always try to get out during the summer,” said Abdullah, citing the Huskers’ community efforts in Lincoln over the offseason.

Community work and charity have resulted in good karma for teams during Orlando Bowl Week this year. Virginia Tech DB Antone Exum made national news for giving away his bowl gift Best Buy shopping spree for the Russell Athletic Bowl, and went on to spark the Hokies to victory with a key interception. He was named the game’s MVP. Perhaps some of the good karma earned today will benefit the Huskers on Tuesday.