A Community‑Driven Football Experience
The fourth annual free youth football camp, held in Gretna, Virginia, brought together dozens of young athletes for a day of skill drills, confidence‑building exercises, and a shared love of the game.
The event was organized by WeUpNow Gaming, a community‑focused initiative founded by former Gretna Hawks standout Brandon “Fox” Turner. Turner, who was joined by fellow alumnus Vic Hall, now an assistant coach at Virginia Tech, leveraged their own playing days to mentor the next generation.
Campers rotated through stations that emphasized technique, teamwork, and mental toughness. Between drills, participants entered a computer raffle and enjoyed a complimentary cookout at Elba Park, turning the field into a neighborhood gathering spot.
Turner and Hall stressed that the camp was about more than football; it was about providing opportunities they themselves missed growing up. “We want these kids to see a path forward, whether on the field or in life,” Turner said.
Levi Robertson, a third‑year attendee, described the camp as a stepping stone toward his dream of playing college football and, ultimately, the NFL. “Every session adds a piece to the puzzle,” he said, eyes fixed on the horizon of higher‑level competition.
Erika Coles, Levi’s mother, watched proudly as the children laughed and learned. “It’s wonderful to see them having fun while building something meaningful,” she noted, highlighting the event’s emphasis on joy and growth.
The organizers underscored that the camp was completely free, with no hidden fees or obligations, reinforcing a spirit of pure community support.