Photo Credit: Detroit PAL
Sauce Gardner, a prominent name in the world of American football who once played for Detroit PAL Youth Football and later became a Pro Bowl New York Jet cornerback, surprised his hometown with an unexpected act of kindness during the NFL Draft.
The lucky metro Detroit school-aged youth received brand-new Microsoft Surface laptops. Each youth also received one-on-one time with him and an individual picture. Before arriving to surprise the youth, Gardner made the day even more memorable by signing t-shirts and footballs for the children to take home.
“Being able to see these kids’ faces light up while walking in is just a blessing because I know a lot of these kids look up to me. It’s a blessing to be an example on and off the field. Every day, I wake up with a purpose,” Gardner said.
One of the cornerstones of Gardner’s philanthropic endeavors is his dedication to mentoring and empowering young people. Recognizing the pivotal role of positive role models in his life, he’s made it his mission to pay it forward. Whether it’s through hosting football camps, speaking engagements at schools, or returning to Detroit PAL, where it all started for him, Gardner is actively involved in shaping the next generation.
“I’m excited about what the future holds. I’m sure I will have another camp coming up this year, and I’m sure it will be here (Detroit PAL), and I’m looking forward to it. I look forward to seeing these kids here, whether they are coming to participate in the training camp or coming to see me. They will be well taken care of,” Gardner said.
Gardner, a native of Detroit and Martin Luther King High School alum established the Sauce Gardner Family Foundation Football Camp to empower underprivileged teens. The camp was designed to hone football skills while instilling values such as leadership, hard work, and the significance of education.
Detroit PAL CEO Fredrick D. Hunter introduced Sauce Gardner and expressed his enthusiasm and pride. Hunter’s remarks were filled with excitement. While reflecting on the significance of this surprise occasion, he thanked Microsoft, Wasserman Sports Agency, and the NFL Player Association.
“How amazing to have one of our very own who grew up in the PAL league playing football and continued to work on his game to elevate to be one of the, if not the best, cornerbacks in the NFL. We are proud to call him one of our own,” Hunter said.
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