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Springfield, Ohio — Intent on spreading the message that participation in athletics is about developing character traits and lifelong values, the Springfield-based Huddle for Hope Foundation hosted its first-ever summer football camp July 7-9 at Wittenberg University.

The camp, which featured appearances by former Ohio State University standouts Dee Miller, Matt Finkes and Joe Cooper and former Michigan State standout Nick Myers, attracted more than 40 boys and girls entering first through sixth grades in 2009. They eagerly participated in drills and listened intently to life lessons imparted by the one-time collegiate student-athletes.

"Our foundation's main focus is to educate, support and inspire our local athletes," said Huddle for Hope Foundation Board Member Rod Suman. "I think this camp allowed us to emphasize all three of those mission values at one time."

The camp is part of a wider program of fund-raisers, special events and public donations that help satisfy requests for personal financial assistance and much-needed equipment and facilities-related expenses to various youth organizations and schools. Through sport-specific camps, Huddle for Hope Foundation organizers hope to supply athletes with the information and guidance needed to perform at a high level in whatever sport they choose.

Camp organizers worked with Wittenberg Director of Athletics and Recreation Garnett Purnell to schedule the event at the university's busy Edwards-Maurer Field. Suman said they hope to make it an annual partnership.

"Wittenberg University was a perfect location, and we would like to thank Mr. Purnell for hosting the camp," he said. "We hope to bring our camp back to Wittenberg for many years to come."

The next big event for Huddle for Hope is a golf outing fund-raiser on Saturday, Aug. 15 at Locust Hills Golf Course. For more information, log onto http://www.huddleforhope.org.

Written By: Ryan Maurer
Photos By: Brian Schubert '09