A 23‑Year Tradition of Free Football and Life Lessons
Dr. Carnel Smith, a longtime educator and former football star, has turned his passion for the sport into a community‑wide mentorship program that serves boys in grades three through eight. Each summer he opens the fields at Scott High School for a week‑long camp that costs nothing to participants, a streak that has endured for 23 years.
The camp’s curriculum goes beyond drills and scrimmages. Smith weaves daily homework assignments into the schedule, each tied to a specific life lesson such as discipline, confidence, and accountability. By linking athletic activity with written reflection, he ensures that the values learned on the field translate into everyday behavior.
Running from June 15 through June 19, the camp culminates in a series of exercises designed to build courage and leadership. Smith emphasizes that the skills cultivated — discipline, confidence, and accountability — are meant to guide the youngsters long after the final whistle.
Fundraiser Secures the Camp’s Future
To sustain the free model, Smith is hosting a fundraiser on May 22 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Trunk, located at 3353 Franklin Ave. The event brings together families, local businesses, and community leaders to raise the funds needed to cover equipment, facility costs, and staffing, ensuring that the camp can remain tuition‑free for the next generation of participants.
Beyond the immediate financial goal, the fundraiser underscores a broader mission: to provide a safe, structured environment where boys can develop the inner strength needed to face challenges both on and off the field. Smith’s vision blends sports with character education, aiming to shape responsible leaders for the future.