Annual kids clinic brings CMU football and community together
There was a hint of jealousy from Vicki Roggenbuck when she watched her children participate in drills with members of the Central Michigan football team.
Not only was the Beal City native enamored in the opportunity provided Saturday at Kelly/Shorts Stadium prior to the annual Spring Game, but she wishes events like this were common when she was young.
"You always tell your kids, 'when I was your age we never did this type of stuff,' which is true," Roggenbuck said. "But even though we didn't get to do this, it's just great that I can give this experience to them."
Roughly 125 boys and girls came out to get an up-and-close look at the Chippewas, running through a number of drills after an autograph session and speech from head coach John Bonamego.
What made this go-around noteworthy from years past is the newly formed partnership with the Isabella County Restoration House. Families were encouraged to donate personal hygiene items that could be given to the homeless.
"It's a worthwhile cause," Bonamego said. "With a college campus, you don't often think that we have a homeless population, so Paulette (Bonamego) and I are really committed in helping out."
Bonamego believes both the kids and the players themselves win when hosting youth clinics, as the time to interact with one another is positive when being around an environment that bodes plenty of excitement and energy.
He's also very pleased with the close relationship between the program and ICRH, having previously done cleanup around the city of Mount Pleasant back in March and attending one of the latter's fundraising affairs two weeks ago.
"I know the players enjoy it and it seems like more-and-more kids show up," Bonamego said. "We just want to give back to the community in anyway possible."
Much like Roggenbuck, many other Central Michigan alumni had their young children in tow for the event, including 2011 graduate Marcus Matthews from Midland, who also brought his wife, father and mother.
Matthews said nothing made him happier than to see the smiles on his kids' faces when running around the field. Some of the drills featured field goal kicking, running routes, tackling and celebrations.
"Watching everyone interacting with the players is the best part," Matthews said. "The guys here do a terrific job in getting the kids excited about football. It's just fun watching them have a good time."
For some players like senior linebacker Alex Briones, Saturday marked the final time he'll experience being active in a youth clinic.
"This event means a lot to me," Briones said. "Having all the kids coming from Mount Pleasant and other areas, it's good to have them here doing football activities, signing autographs and taking pictures. I'm sure they had a great time."
Bonamego wants to see as many kids who participated go on to play high school football, but understands that parents have the final decision as to whether or not they're physically mature to do so.
With the format being more fun oriented than a series of safety lessons, Bonamego doesn't want anyone being rushed into the sport if the timing isn't right.
"It's not for everyone," he said. "I think it's good for young people to be exposed to as many things as they can and eventually they find their way."
