The purpose of the camp is to encourage young Bahamian athletes to pursue their education and dreams of playing American Football. Campers will have the opportunity to interact with prominent sports figures who will act as coaches, leaders and mentors throughout the duration of the camps. Their presence will offer campers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to meet and train under the tutelage of professional athletes.
The As One Foundation was created in 2007 by Devard Darling, in loving memory of his identical brother Devaughn Darling who passed in 2001 during spring training. Its goal is to provide underprivileged youth both nationally and internationally with educational and developmental opportunities through athletic endeavors, educational programming and spiritual enrichment. Specifically, the “Devard & Deveaughn Darling Football Camps” strive to encourage young Bahamians ages 11 to 16 to further their athletic skills and education at a private school in the United States. The cap of available camper slots is 120, and attendance will be allotted to elite athletes with the potential of pursuing a collegiate or professional career in football.
While gaining invaluable skills and training in the game of American Football, camp attendees will also receive free gifts, equipment and a chance to earn the title of Camp MVP. Camp MVP will be judged by participation in all activities and the chosen honoree and one parent will win a fully paid trip to Kansas City, Missouri during the 2009 NFL season to spend a weekend with Devard Darling and his family.
“We are thrilled with the number of quality professional athletes confirmed to attend, coach and mentor campers at both of the 2009 football camps,” said Devard Darling. “The foundation would not be able to put on successful football camps without the help and support from the athletic community and we are truly grateful for their time and generosity.”
For more information about Devard Darling, his vision for Bahamian youth and the “Devard & Devaughn Darling Football Camps” go to www.asonefoundation.org.
About Devard Darling
Devard Darling, the founder and visionary of the As One Foundation, is pursuing his goals on the professional football field while bringing to life the dream envisioned between him and his late twin brother, Devaughn; to bring the game of American football to their native country of the Bahamas and to honor his brother by opening the Devaughn Darling Sports Complex. Devard currently plays professional football for the Kansas City Chiefs, where he is wide receiver. Prior to joining the Chiefs, Devard played 4 years with the Baltimore Ravens where he was selected as 82nd overall in the 3rd round of the 2004 NFL Draft. In the final two months of the 2007 season, Devard recorded 18 receptions for 326 yards and 3 touchdowns in just 8 games.
Devard began his athletic career at Florida State University as one of the top high school prospects out of Stephen F. Austin High School in Houston, Texas. However, after the unfortunate passing of his identical twin brother Devaughn Darling on the football field during spring practices in 2001, Florida State University would not reinstate Devard for his remaining eligibility. After being connected with Mike Price, former Head Coach of the Washington State University Cougars, Devard was cleared to play and became one of the best wide receivers in Washington State history, recording 16 touchdowns and over 1500 yards in just two years.
Devard currently resides in Kansas City, MI with his Wife, Cicely Darling and Son, Devard, Jr. In his free time he enjoys charity work, attending church and giving back to his community through athletics.
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