SALT LAKE CITY – Blaze fullback Ben Stallings teamed with mascot Torch as the pair donated their time to Lincoln Elementary School as part of the Playworks after school program. Playworks is a collaborative effort that partners schools with the non-profit group to try to make sure recess is a positive, meaningful use of kid’s time - one that better prepares them to do well in class. Lincoln’s program is led by Coach Valita Ortiz.
On Friday, February 10, Stallings stood in front of a group of about 120 elementary students and encouraged them to stay committed to their goals. He shared stories of his own journey through school to the Arena Football League, and stressed the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, both on and off the playing field.
However, the children were most anticipating the arrival of Torch. At one point, they even chanted his name leading up to the assembly. The Blaze mascot didn’t disappoint, as he surprised the kids by rushing into the assembly and shooting off his signature confetti cannon. The children welcomed the unexpected entrance with cheers.
After the assembly, Stallings and Torch followed the kids outside for some much-needed recess time. The duo led the kids in many activities, including basketball, soccer, and of course, football. As the day came to a close, Ben and Torch were presented with thank you cards the kids had personally colored earlier in the day.
“I was really impressed by the program Coach Ortiz was running,” said Stallings. “These kids are being taught important life lessons and it shows on the playground. I’m grateful I had the opportunity to walk into a school like that and share my experiences with young individuals.”
About Playworks
Playworks is a national nonprofit organization that supports learning by providing safe, healthy and inclusive play and physical activity to low-income schools at recess and throughout the entire school day. Playworks currently operates their direct service program in more than 300 schools in 23 US cities, and serve more than 130,000 elementary school students every day.
