A summer of growth on the gridiron
Cory Durden, a defensive lineman with the New England Patriots and a native of Newberry, Florida, is set to lead his second annual youth football camp at the Easton‑Newberry Sports Complex on Saturday, June 13.
The event is open to boys and girls between the ages of six and thirteen and is designed to teach the fundamentals of the game while also emphasizing leadership and teamwork. Sessions will run from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for the younger cohort and from noon to 1:30 p.m. for the older group.
Durden emphasized that the camp is about more than just drills; it is about creating a positive environment where youngsters can build confidence, learn from experienced coaches and simply have fun on the field.
Registration is currently open and the camp is offered at no cost to participants. Parents can sign up their children through the team’s official channels, ensuring a spot in one of the two age‑specific sessions.
The initiative reflects Durden’s commitment to giving back to the community that helped shape him, and it provides a unique opportunity for local youth to interact with a professional athlete and learn from his experience.
Community impact and future plans
Beyond this single day, Durden hopes the camp will become a recurring fixture in Newberry’s summer calendar, fostering a pipeline of talent and character development that extends beyond the sport.
Local organizations, including the New England Patriots, have expressed support for the program, highlighting the importance of partnerships between professional teams and the communities they represent.