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A Carolina Panther Experience

By Chris Wallace
Black College Wire

Children of all ages got players' autographs and played football-themed games as the NFL's Carolina Panthers and the Bank of America hosted the fourth annual Panthers Caravan Tour at North Carolina A&T’s practice football field.

The "Panther Experience" included a football toss, long snap drills, an inflatable obstacle course and playing catch with the players.

The kids were also able to jump around in an inflatable trampoline-type object, meet the cheerleaders and also line up for pictures with the Carolina Panthers players and cheerleaders.

The players also seemed to enjoy the fun while participating in the activities with the kids.

Chris Wallace Children line up for autographs from Carolina Panther wide receiver Steve Smith.

“This is my second year and I like it,” said kick returner and wide receiver Steve Smith of the tour. He was the Panthers’ leading receiver last season and was selected to the 2001 Pro Bowl as a kick return specialist. “Every year, it’s getting bigger and better, and I’m having fun. I’m no different than anybody else. I’m just a regular person like everybody else and out here having fun and entertaining them.

Others on the tour included defensive tackle Kris Jenkins, safety Jarrod Cooper, quarterback Randy Fasani and running back Rod Smart, as well as TopCats cheerleaders, Sir Purr the mascot and the Future Scholar 529 savings plan, which helps families plan for the rising costs of a college education. The tour concluded at the end of April.

Chris Wallace is a student at North Carolina A&T State University who is co-editor of The A&T Register.