ALLEN PARK, Mich. – High school football players from Metro Detroit gathered at the Detroit Lions Meijer Performance Center for a unique opportunity.
NFL Hall of Famer Calvin Johnson Jr. and other celebrity athletes helped the players improve their skills and find their path on and off the field.
The event, called Catching Dreams Weekend, is hosted by the Calvin Johnson Jr. Foundation.
Since 2008, the foundation has worked to uplift underserved youth and communities through football camps and mentorship.
“We’re just trying to dump into them everything that we’ve learned over the years and just hope they catch a couple of things from us,” Johnson said. “I think that’ll help them along their whole journey throughout their matriculation in high school.”
The camp pushes players with drills and life lessons while offering college scholarships.
Dylan Watkins, a 2024 scholarship recipient, said the support was vital.
“It played a pretty pivotal role. Morehouse is pretty expensive. It’s a private institution, so this scholarship really helped me in the process of going to college and paying for school,” Watkins said.
Parents watched from the sidelines as the pro athletes encouraged their children.
“I love it for him. Just to get that inspiration and information — just for him to get better, to improve on his skills — that’s the best thing. Watching him improve and get better is amazing,” said Angie Dismukes, a parent.
The weekend also focused on life skills like communication and money management.
Every player left a winner, putting in the work with no large crowds, inching closer to greatness.
The foundation’s work continues beyond the weekend.
After a similar event in Atlanta last weekend, the foundation will host its 3rd Annual Celebrity Classic on June 30 at the Cardinal at The St. John’s Resort in Plymouth. Sponsors and foursomes will enjoy a premier golf experience alongside celebrity guests. The event aims to raise funds to support even more students.