Sampson County youngsters arrived at Clinton High School Saturday morning with their pigskins, Pittsburgh Steelers jerseys and a smile from ear-to-ear as Steelers running back, and Clinton native, Willie Parker arrived for his football camp.

The morning started with a welcome from Parker.

“I want to welcome everyone, and I want to thank everyone for coming out to my football camp,” the Clinton native spoke.

Parker then introduced the bus load of pros he brought to his camp this year, which included, Keyaron Fox, Justin Hartwig, David Thornton, with the Tennessee Titans, Charlie Batch, James Farrior, Larry Johnson, with the Kansas City Chiefs, Chris Kemoeatu and Arnold Harrison, to name a few.

Although Parker refused to be interviewed for SI, several of his teammates commented on his willingness to give back to his community.

“I think it is cool,” Chiefs running back Johnson said. “Anytime you can go back to where you started and give back, it is a good thing.”

Agreeing, Steelers center Hartwig added, “This is great. He has great support and a lot of NFL players here today.”

In addition to Parker giving back to the community, Hartwig said that as a whole, the football camp is basically a great experience for the youngsters.

“It is a great chance to give the kids the opportunity to meet NFL players and get instruction,” Hartwig furthered.

One of those youngsters was 10-year-old Josh Gilchrist who admitted that he was hyper and looking most forward to trucking during his time at Parker’s camp.

“I’m just coming out here and having fun,” Zion Smith expressed.

Jacob Byrd also commented, “I’m excited to meet Willie Parker and get his autograph. He is one of my top five favorite players.”

Also a fan of Parker, Shywon Hawkins chimed in, “I am excited to play some football and see Willie. I already know him though. I have been to his house.”

As for the camp, Byrd continued, “It is pretty nice of him to do this camp. I give him a big thumbs up.”

Drew Tobin added, “It is really great that he is doing this because it gives the kids a chance to see how professionals do it.”

During their time at Parker’s football camp, the youngsters learned agility, passing, punting and tackle techniques under several NFL pros guidance.

Jessica Wagner can be contacted at 910-592-8137 ext.122 or reached by e-mail at siphoto@myclintonnc.com