May 31, 2007 – Freeport, Grand Bahama
On May 24-25, Devard Darling visited Freeport to promote the 2nd Annual Devard Darling Football Camp and the launching of his non-profit organization the As One Foundation, which is managing and partially funding the camp. His trip included visits to Jack Hayward High, Tabernacle Baptist Academy, G.B. Catholic High, Bishop Michael Eldon, and Eight Mile Rock. Because of his efforts, there were over 50 registered participants at the conclusion of just the first week of registration; leaving only 100 spots for other interested Bahamian youth.
Darling’s discussion focused primarily on the Devard Darling Football Camp taking place July 9 thru July 13 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Freeport Rugby Football Club on Settlers Way. But he did share some of his personal life experiences, where opportunity played a pivotal role in his success; he encouraged the children to be prepared for their opportunity through hard work, focus and education. His life experiences and his belief in hard work and education has prompted the adoption of his personal motto and the motto of the As One Foundation which is “Ability without opportunity is a curse.”
With the help and support of several individuals and sponsors, Darling hopes to make this camp one of the best experiences and opportunities for young boys and girls wishing to learn the sport of American football. This camp will expose these young athletes to the coaches and professionals he brings to the camp; including Coach Robin Kirk, currently the head coach at St. Pius X High School in Houston, Texas and coach of Freeport born, Rico Forbes, one of the best defensive ends coming out of the state of Texas and, high school recruiter, Mel Ferguson, from CA Sports. It is As One Foundation’s goal to see this camp lend way to the opportunity for young Bahamians to be considered more seriously for intercollegiate athletics scholarships and higher education.
All children, regardless of football experience or size, are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity and register. Registration is FREE and will be limited to the first 150 registrants; interested parties are encouraged to register online as early as possible. To register please visit www.asonefoundation.org/camps.html. In addition, you can find more information about Devard, his vision for Bahamian youth, and the camp at www.asonefoundation.org. If you have any questions about camp, please e-mail camp administrators at info@asonefoundation.org.