Youth learn from pros

Just before the rain got serious enough to seek cover from, eight kids were taught some football fundamentals by several members of the Augusta Stallions.

The first-ever Augusta Stallionss Punt, Pass and Kick Contest took place at Evans Middle School on Saturday, a day after the Stallions improved their record to 10-1 by beating the Columbia Wardogs 67-51.

"The guys are a little tired and probably a little banged up," Head Coach Mike Hold said. "But I'm glad to see a lot of them made it. We have a lot of guys who want to help."

Among other skills, Hold taught the children how to run various routes, including a post and slant. Then he showed them how to take a handoff and catch a ball that is over and under thrown.

The two-hour camp - that provided breakfast and lunch - was done all in the name of community relations.

"It's just an opportunity for the kids to meet the players and for the players to do something for the community," he said.

Richard Johnson, Sr., of Thomson, said he brought his 10-year-old son to help him learn something about football and meet some professional players.

"This will give him a better attitude," Johnson said.

Richard Jr., who already has tickets to the July 15 Stallions game, was the quarterback of the Thomson Falcons Pop Warner team this past year. Richard Sr. said maybe some of the skills his son learned on Saturday will help him when he get to the high school level.

"He may be the next Thomson High quarterback," he said.