Volunteers Score Touchdown in Santee

Pep talk by Chargers' Edwin Baker

Community volunteers and local law enforcement officers yesterday proved once again that kids are a top priority in the city of Santee.

Nearly 100 local kids participated in the Junior Chargers Training Camp, an opportunity to learn the basics of football and to hear words of wisdom from athletes who have made it to the professional ranks.

More than 20 local law enforcement officers, including several from the Santee Sheriff’s Station, volunteered as assistant coaches. Head coach was Sgt. Tom Miller of the San Diego Police Department.

The free event, which was held at Town Center Community Park, is aimed at teaching youngsters the connection between fitness and a healthy lifestyle and the path to success in whatever occupation they pursue.

Edwin Baker, a rookie running back for the San Diego Chargers, fielded questions and talked to the kids about eating healthy and staying fit. He was assisted by Santana High School football players J.T. Allen and Anthony Diaz, who led the group calisthenics.

The kids, who ranged in age from 7 to 14, also received a free T-shirt and refreshments.

The special camp was sponsored by the Police Athletic League's Sports Training Academics and Recreation Program (STAR/PAL), a nonprofit dedicated to teaching kids positive values and to build bridges between youth and law enforcement.