Duke football players bring smiles to kids at Durham Rescue Mission

Duke football players traded practice reps for mentorship this week, spending time with children living at the Durham Rescue Mission's Good Samaritan Inn and giving them a chance to experience life as Blue Devils for a day.

The visit brought smiles, football drills and encouragement to children whose families are working through homelessness, recovery or difficult life circumstances.

"Down, set, hut!"

Duke players ran drills with the children, taught them plays and even helped them try on shoulder pads that were nearly too heavy for their small frames.

When we get the chance to bring joy into these kids' lives for an hour or two hours, we know that can go a long way.

For many families, the event was about more than football.

"I notice a big difference in my kids," said Ali Anastasi, who has lived at the Good Samaritan Inn since January. "They were just sad and closed off. Now they've formed relationships and friendships."

Anastasi said she came to the shelter after fleeing domestic violence.

"We had nowhere to go, and I was fleeing a DV situation," she said.

Stories like hers are common among families staying at the mission.

Children got to learn plays, try out pads, and toss the ball with Duke players on Thursday.

Players from the reigning ACC champions said the opportunity reminded them of the influence they can have beyond the football field.

"It's really grounding for us. Really a humbling experience," said Duke offensive lineman Nathan Kutufaris.

"When we get the chance to bring joy into these kids' lives for an hour or two hours, we know that can go a long way," Duke offensive lineman Sean Stover said.

Durham Rescue Mission Vice President Ernie Mills Jr. revived the visit after it had been absent for several years.

"The message I want our children to receive is everything is possible if you're willing to work for it and apply yourself," Mills said. "The limit is unlimited, really, in what you can achieve in life."

For 6-year-old Bentley, one of his biggest milestones is approaching.

"I'm getting baptized Sunday," he said.

His mother said the team's presence shows her son the power of community support.

"I hope it brings him joy, and he sees that he's not alone," she said. "People do care."

Duke Football's director of player development told ABC11 that the community regularly supports the team, and events like this allow players an opportunity to give back and show their gratitude.

Duke football players are set to begin fall training camp next week.

Download the ABC11 News app

Indexed and credited by AIPROPX. Originating outlet: Yahoo Sports. Open at source →