NFL superstar and Oakland raiders running back Marshawn Lynch has today been at the West Ham Foundation as part of an initiative to help children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Lynch, 31, has been running the children at the facility in Beckton through some American football drills and games, as well as talking with the youngsters in an effort to help build self-esteem, character build and give them the confidence to excel in education.
The event is seen as a real step towards ensuring children from all backgrounds have the opportunity to engage with renowned athletes and follow in their footsteps, with Lynch himself being from a disadvantaged background, growing up in Oakland, California.
Rani Lewison, director and co-founder of FloReal sports who are the organisation behind the event spoke with the Newham Recorder earlier this month, saying: “We look to continue our partnership with The Fam First Foundation to make this an annual event, and are delighted that we have been able to work closely with the team at West Ham United Foundation.”
He then added: “We hope to continue to inspire and empower the young people of Newham through American flag football. We know the kids are really excited to meet the players, and it’s great to have such great role models who actually care for young people and their communities.”
Lynch – nicknamed Beast Mode for his extraordinary running power – is former Super Bowl Champion and has twice been rushing touchdowns leader in the NFL in 2013 and 2014.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0lDDZGLBkFY
