NFL star football camp, Ar'Darius Washington, hosts youth camp

By: Ark-La-Tex Staff Writer
Published July 13, 2025

Former Evangel Christian standout and Baltimore Ravens safety Ar’Darius Washington returned to his hometown July 12 to run his second annual youth football camp at Evangel’s campus, bringing NFL-level insight and community spirit to Shreveport’s aspiring athletes. Organizers say nearly 100 kids, ranging from elementary schoolers to early teens, participated in drills, workshops, and interactive skill sessions led by Washington himself and several current and former NFL players.

Hosted outdoors on a sunny Saturday morning, the camp featured professionally structured stations focusing on key football fundamentals: passing, tackling, agility, footwork, and positional play. Washington placed special emphasis on character-building, imparting lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and discipline as much as athletic technique.

“My goal is to give these kids knowledge and confidence, on and off the field,” Washington told KSLA during the event. Parents and young athletes alike praised his hands-on approach and grounded attitude. One participant’s parent noted how Washington “took the time to talk with each kid individually,” reinforcing positive attitudes as they practiced new skills.

The camp also included brief seminars from guest NFL alumni, covering topics like sports nutrition, injury prevention, and mental health. These sessions rounded out the day’s activities with valuable insight into life as a professional athlete and the habits needed to succeed at every level.

Volunteers from local sports organizations and the Evangel Christian community helped manage the event logistics, guaranteeing smooth transitions between drills, distributing meals and water, and ensuring safety protocols were followed throughout the morning. The turnout reflected Washington’s growing reputation not just as an NFL player, but as a committed mentor and advocate for youth development in his hometown.

As the camp wrapped up, participants received gear bags filled with essentials: t-shirts, footballs, water bottles, and posed for group photos and autograph opportunities. For many of the young athletes, the experience offered more than technical training; it provided inspiration to pursue their goals with dedication and resilience.

Washington’s efforts aim to establish a recurring athletic and mentorship platform in Shreveport. His success in the NFL, coupled with his commitment to giving back, signals a lasting investment in his community, helping pave a clearer path for the next generation of local talent. 

by: Dr. Kirkpatrick Williams