Outside of shutting down opposing teams’ wide receivers, A.J. Terrell enjoys being in the community and supporting the youth. The Atlanta Falcons cornerback partnered with Camp HBCYouth for their field day at Morehouse College. Camp HBCYouth provides students and parents with ongoing education and support when school is out and puts them in a safe and inclusive environment.
Terrell spoke with rolling out about what inspired him to participate in Camp HBCYouth, the importance of having the event on an HBCU campus, and his favorite childhood memories going to camp.
What inspired you to do something like this?
The kids and just me once being in a position and seeing role models come and give back and have fun with them and be able to lead by example. Having fun with the kids and showing your face is important coming up.
Why is it important to continue to amplify HBCUs?
Just getting outside and playing. I was just talking to one of my friends a couple of weeks ago about how kids just don’t go outside as much no more and don’t understand that that’s where a lot of relationships and stuff are built. I’ve made a lot of friends and people down the road just off the sport of football and just sports in general and just having fun. Definitely take care of education, academics, and things like that, because that’s what they’re here for, but also just getting outside and playing is key to growing up as a kid.
What were your favorite childhood moments going to camp and having field days?
Competing, having fun, and building a connection with kids from all over. When you look back, you’ll recognize and see kids that you grew up with and just all these memories that you build with things like this, so that’s mainly the thing. Then doing it with role models like Michael Vick down the road. Back then, I was [practicing with] Michael Vick, Pacman Jones, and Cam Newton, so now it’s my turn. That’s why I’m here.
How do you feel about the upcoming season?
We have a lot of new faces and every year we’re always looking forward to the next chapter. We have a lot of new faces on offense and defense and we’re just ready to get to it. Camp starts July 24.
