A Community Tradition Takes Shape
On a bright Saturday morning in Evans, Georgia, the scent of fresh-cut grass mingled with the laughter of children as former Georgia Southern standout Derrick Canteen opened the doors of his sixth annual football camp at Evans High School. The event, now a staple of the local summer calendar, attracted families from across the county who gathered to watch drills, cheer on youngsters, and enjoy a series of inflatable bounce houses that turned the practice field into a playground.
Canteen, who signed with the San Francisco 49ers after a collegiate journey that took him through Georgia Southern, Virginia Tech and the University of Cincinnati, used the platform to give back to the community that helped shape his early years. "I wanted to stay connected to the place that raised me," he said, "and to show the kids that hard work and heart can take you far."
The camp’s schedule blended rigorous skill sessions with playful breaks. Participants rotated through tackling drills, route-running exercises and defensive back techniques, all supervised by Canteen and a handful of former college teammates. Between the technical work, the field was dotted with bright-colored bounce houses, providing a welcome respite and a way to keep the atmosphere light for younger attendees.
Beyond the gridiron, Canteen emphasized the importance of mentorship and community involvement. He highlighted the value of staying rooted in one’s hometown, encouraging the campers to pursue education, stay disciplined, and give back when they can. "Our kids need role models who understand where they come from," he noted, "and I’m grateful for every chance to be that example."
Now in its sixth iteration, the camp has grown from a modest gathering to a regional event that draws scouts, coaches and media attention. As the sun set over the Evans High School stadium, the final drills concluded with a group photo, a handshake and a promise to return next summer. For Canteen, each year’s camp reaffirms his commitment to the community that first taught him the fundamentals of the game.