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Chargers player hosts free youth camp in Chula Vista

Hundreds of kids learn from pro athletes at Eastlake High School event. CHULA VISTA, Calif. — Los Angeles Chargers safety Tony Jefferson hosted a free youth football camp for approximately 300 children in Chula Vista on Sunday. The event, held at Eastlake High School, Jefferson’s alma mater, provided local kids aged 8-16 with an opportunity […]

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Hundreds of kids learn from pro athletes at Eastlake High School event.

CHULA VISTA, Calif. — Los Angeles Chargers safety Tony Jefferson hosted a free youth football camp for approximately 300 children in Chula Vista on Sunday. The event, held at Eastlake High School, Jefferson’s alma mater, provided local kids aged 8-16 with an opportunity to learn from NFL players and college athletes.

Jefferson, a Chula Vista native, organized the camp through his charitable foundation in partnership with NFL Flag San Diego and Hard Count. The one-day event offered young boys and girls a chance to participate in drills and receive coaching from professional athletes.

“I just remember when I used to go to these camps, how excited I was and how motivated I was after I was at the camp, and I thought that’s something I definitely want to do once I had the opportunity to do,” said Jefferson.

The camp featured a range of activities, including hurdles and agility exercises, designed to improve the participants’ football skills. In addition to Jefferson, San Diego State University defensive end Trey White, also an Eastlake High School alumnus, helped coach the young athletes.

“It’s full circle right now, I actually went to a Tony Jefferson camp when I was younger too, full circle moment at Eastlake too,” said White.

For many of the young participants, the camp represented a unique opportunity to learn from professional athletes. Kaloi Duhart, 13, plays on two flag football teams and was excited to participate.

“This is probably like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It’s not common that football players organize big events like this, and I’m just glad I get to learn from somebody like him,” said Duhart.

Jefferson emphasized that the camp’s goals extended beyond improving athletic skills. He stressed the importance of character development and leadership.

“We want to build character. Character is a huge component to be successful in whatever you do, like I said, not just sports,” said Jefferson.

The event also featured Kenny Stills, Jefferson’s college teammate and competitor, who graduated from La Costa Canyon High School. Stills shared his own experience of being inspired by professional athletes as a youth.

“I remember being their age and having an opportunity to see Jr Seau to work out at the beach and the impact that that had on me and how it humanized how he was as a person and inspired me to be like that during my career path,” said Stills.

The young athletes at the camp appeared to be absorbing the lessons and inspiration provided by the professional players. Kingston Van, one of the participants, reflected on the impact of the experience.

“It feels good. It’s giving me the challenging mindset to not give up even if it’s hard,” said Van.

As the event concluded, Jefferson expressed his hope that San Diego residents would continue to support the Chargers, despite the team’s relocation to Los Angeles.

“I get it, you know, the team leaves, but we’re just up the road and we’re still the Chargers and I love you guys and I know you love me back. So come back on board, baby, come back,” said Jefferson, adding, “I love you, San Diego.”



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