Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back and South Panola High School alumnus, Deshea Townsend, will host his Pay it Forward Football Day Camp on Saturday, May 17 at South Panola High School.
This is the ninth annual running of the Pay It Forward Day Camp which has evolved into a fundamental football skills clinic coupled with a leadership academy.  The day camp is open to youth from 7 – 18 years of age and is free for all attendees.

The goal of the Pay it Forward Football Day Camp is to provide a safe environment for kids while promoting good sportsmanship, academic success and leadership skills.  In addition to the breakout sessions, age appropriate athletic drills, conditioning and technique will be demonstrated and taught.

Townsend, along with several of his Pittsburgh Steelers teammates will personally facilitate several areas of the camp.  Children      (girls are strongly encouraged to register) interested in attending the camp will need to have their parents     pre-register them through the Boys and Girls Club at 662-578-7309 by Monday, May 1.  The camp will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at South Panola High School’s football field. Lunch, beverages and snacks will be provided.

Townsend, a native of Batesville, looks forward to hosting his event for the ninth year.

“I’m honored to bring the day camp back again to Batesville. It means the world to me to be able to reach out to the youth in my hometown.  The community support is tremendous and we’re looking forward to providing a first class event for the kids,” said Townsend.  

As a senior quarterback at South Panola High, Townsend led the team to the 5A State Championship in 1993.  Townsend, who is a career defensive back with the Steelers, started in Super Bowl XL and recorded six tackles (five solo) during the game to result in a championship win for the Steelers.  

Townsend plans to share his building blocks for success at his camp through talks with the participants about smart choices, preparation, and leadership qualities.

“I know where these kids come from and what they are experiencing growing up in Batesville. I want them to know there is a whole world out there, and if they put their mind to it…they are only steps away from seeing and experiencing the best of what life has to offer,” said Townsend.

For more information about Deshea Townsend’s Ninth Annual Pay it Forward Football Day Camp, please contact Keshia Walker, Insights Marketing at 404-229-2881.