DETROIT – At Ford Field, Honolulu Blue collided with the spirit of the holiday season.
On Wednesday, the Detroit Lions partnered with Meijer to host its Season of Sharing with Detroit Lions Academy, an alternative school serving middle and high school students.
Students normally receive lunch and presents, but new this year: a rare opportunity to walk onto Ford Field and run drills.
“For the first time to be on the football field, never thought this would happen in a day in my life,” said Marcus Washington, 16, a senior student.
The event offers a holiday shopping spree for students in which they can pick out gifts. The children are asked to list a want and need for their requests.
“I had asked for some beats and like a pillow and a blanket,” said Cameron Harper, 16, a freshman student.
They’re also spending time with Lions’ legends like Scott Conover.
“The Lions, they understand being important to the community to give back – they have this academy with these kids, and they want to make sure these kids are doing right and having the opportunity out there to excel in life,” said the former offensive lineman.
In some ways, the team’s turnaround is like a master class for the academy.
For many of the students, Detroit Lions Academy is a place of second chances – something the team knows a thing or two about.
“Sometimes, these are the kids that didn’t receive like all the praise and awards,” said Alean King, the principal. “So, when they start making changes and start moving in the right direction and to know that this team stands behind them to cheer them on, it’s a good thing.”