Davis inspires youth at Mifflin County Youth Football Camp
Sentinel Photo by MIKE GOSS<br> Sentinel Photo by MIKE GOSS This year’s group of football campers huddled up for a photograph with Penn State football player Omarion Davis (third from left kneeling).
Sentinel Photo by MIKE GOSS<br> Silas Cameron, age 7, of McVeytown, was mesmerized as he listened to Penn State’s Omarion Davis speak on Thursday.
Sentinel Photo by MIKE GOSS<br> Tatem Hesketh, of Lewistown, waits to ask a question during the football camp.
Sentinel Photo by MIKE GOSS<br> Penn State’s Omarion Davis points to a camper to answer a question.
Sentinel Photo by MIKE GOSS<br> Sentinel Photo by MIKE GOSS This year’s group of football campers huddled up for a photograph with Penn State football player Omarion Davis (third from left kneeling).
Sentinel Photo by MIKE GOSS<br> Silas Cameron, age 7, of McVeytown, was mesmerized as he listened to Penn State’s Omarion Davis speak on Thursday.
Sentinel Photo by MIKE GOSS<br> Tatem Hesketh, of Lewistown, waits to ask a question during the football camp.
Sentinel Photo by MIKE GOSS<br> Penn State’s Omarion Davis points to a camper to answer a question.
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LEWISTOWN -- For 65 young football campers, Penn State football is a year-round passion. Whether it's the heat of summer or the depths of winter, there is always time for the Nittany Lions.
The same enthusiasm extends to meeting Penn State players. To these young athletes, it doesn't matter whether a player is a four-year starter, a backup, a scholarship quarterback or a walk-on specialist. Penn State is Penn State.
That excitement was evident on Thursday when Penn State safety Omarion Davis visited the Mifflin County Youth Football Camp in Lewistown.
Although weather conditions forced organizers to move activities indoors from Kish Bank Field at Donald M. Chapman III Stadium, the change of venue did little to dampen the spirits of the campers, who eagerly awaited the sophomore defensive back.
Davis, a transfer from Boston College, appeared in 12 games for the Eagles last season, making two starts. He recorded 13 tackles, including eight solo stops, and added a quarterback hurry.
"I love being around young kids. I remember being one of them," Davis said, flashing a smile. "It's great to give back in this kind of way."
The 5-foot-11, 198-pound safety spoke about the dedication and sacrifices required to compete at the collegiate level, especially in the Big Ten Conference and previously in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
"Playing football at this level means making a lot of sacrifices," Davis said. "I'm grateful to be playing at this level."
During his visit, Davis provided campers with an inside look at life as a Division I football player, describing a typical day that begins at 5:45 a.m. and includes weightlifting, practice, team meals, film study and meetings.
He also answered a variety of questions from the campers, ranging from his favorite NFL team to where he grew up.
"I'm looking forward to a winning season and competing for a national championship," Davis said. "Prove yourself right. Do what's best for yourself and your family. Be yourself."
The camp featured players from first through eighth grade and was organized by Mifflin County head football coach Shane Breon and his staff. After being moved indoors, activities were held in the Mifflin County High School gymnasium.
"We had a good group of kids," Breon said. "They were real attentive. I think they all learned something and had fun, and that's the whole goal.
"It's also nice to get the Penn State kids there and coming to talk to them," Breon added. "Our kids know they can ask them questions and get autographs."
The three-day camp focused on fundamental skill development. Tuesday's session emphasized offense, with campers executing run and pass plays. Wednesday was dedicated to defense, while Thursday featured special teams, drills and Davis' appearance.
The Penn State standout proved to be the highlight of the week. Following his remarks, he signed autographs and posed for selfies with campers.
Davis' visit was made possible through Geisinger, which supports student-athletes through Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) partnerships.
In addition to players from Mifflin County, several youngsters from neighboring Juniata County participated in the camp.
Breon said the camp was expanded last year after discussions with Juniata High School head coach Kurt Condo, allowing more players from the Central Keystone Youth Football League to take part.
High school players from Mifflin and Juniata counties also assisted throughout the three-day event, helping with drills and serving as mentors for the younger athletes.
"Our high school kids do a great job working with the younger players," Breon said. "It's a chance for them to give back, be leaders and help the next generation of football players develop a love for the game."
Judging by the smiles, autographs and selfies that followed Davis' appearance, the campers left with memories that will last far longer than the final whistle.