Hometown Huddle is a Hit

United Way Young Leaders and the Houston Texans teamed up to promote health and fitness during the 8th annual NFL/United Way Hometown Huddle on October 6.

The Texans 2009 Rookie Class and Young Leaders warmed up and worked out with more than 80 third-grade students from Anderson Academy.

The Texans talked with students about the importance of physical fitness, healthy eating, success in school and setting positive goals. As part of the NFL’s Play 60 initiative, players encouraged students to engage in at least one hour of physical activity every day. They shared some of the physical activities they enjoyed as kids, like kickball, swimming, climbing trees and playing games.  

“It’s great to get involved with physical education from a service project point of view,” said Young Leader Michelle Moudry of Hines. “I like that the kids are getting outside during school—I think that’s really important.”

The Hometown Huddle provided students a unique opportunity to interact with players and hear firsthand what motivates them to succeed on and off the field.

“I think physical activity gives kids more of a well-rounded childhood,” said linebacker Brian Cushing. “It’s not only good for their health and fitness, it helps kids learn how to work with a team, and no matter what you do in life, you can always use that skill.”

During the Hometown Huddle, the Texans presented Anderson Academy with a Mini Recharge! fitness circuit program. The Recharge! system mixes video gaming with aerobic exercise to keep kids entertained while being physically active.

Houston Texans players participating included defensive end Connor Barwin; center Antoine Caldwell; tight end James Casey; linebacker Brian Cushing; running back Arian Foster; center Brett Helms; tight end Anthony Hill; defensive end Tim Jamison; running back Jeremiah Johnson; cornerback Brice McCain; safety Troy Nolan; cornerback Glover Quin; and tackle Adam Stenavich.

United Way Young Leaders, individuals 45 and younger who donate $1,000 or more annually to United Way, taking part in the event included Michelle Moudry and Rebecca McElroy of Hines; Rosita Hogan of CenterPoint Energy; Kathryn Blackney of Winstead PC; Chris Riley, Will Hickman and Ed Raponi of Shell; and Adam Kalmbach, Chantay Alexander, Cherita Hornsby and Tony Toma of ExxonMobil.

Hometown Huddle is an NFL-wide day of service, providing players and coaches the opportunity to advance health and fitness in their communities.

Our special thanks go to the Houston Texans and our United Way Young Leaders for doing something about it to develop children and youth to their full potential.

To learn more about United Way Young Leaders and upcoming events, contact Holly Rice at 713-685-2829.

View a photo gallery of this event.