Kansas City Chiefs second-year pro WR Dwayne Bowe and the National Football League know how important the health of today's youth is. This is why the NFL, in conjunction with players throughout the league, plan special player visits as an incentive to get students more active and eating healthier. Thanks to this year's “Take a Player to School” visit, some special kids in Gardner, Kansas heard the message loud and clear from a gridiron giant. The day began with quite a surprise for a local youth. Bowe picked-up 5th grade student Tommy Wilkinson in a limo from his house and took him to Pioneer Ridge Middle. After a quick stop by the principal's office, Bowe met with Tommy's classmates and spoke to the students about the importance of staying active, fit and eating health. At the end of the visit, Bowe lead Tommy and his schoolmates in a fitness activity, as part of NFL's Play 60 campaign, helping youth get 60 minutes of exercise a day. “You can't just go home and sit in front of your television,” Bowe implored to the Pioneer Ridge students. “After you finish your homework get up, go outside and play. It doesn't matter if you're are walking, running or skipping. The key is to make sure you're in motion” The NFL Take a Player to School sweepstakes will select one winner in each of the 32 NFL markets and two non-NFL markets. Winners will take players to school during the 2008 regular season. This year, students will have the opportunity to work with a player to plan an NFL Ultimate P.E. Class. Additionally, the NFL and JCPenney will donate funds to support schools in each of these communities, giving children the chance to benefit from programs that encourage the development of healthy lifestyles, improved social skills and enhanced academic performance. Each school will also receive and equipment donation from Wilson, the official football of the NFL.
