A Junior Power Pack member eludes the rush of Packers DT Justin Harrell.
Ray Nitschke Field drew yet another packed crowd Saturday, but it wasn't the allure of the Green and Gold holding a public practice that brought the fans.
Nearly 1,000 youngsters gathered for the 10th annual Junior Power Pack Kids Clinic presented by Kalahari Resorts, a skills camp for members of the Packers' official kids fan club. A one-of-a-kind event in the NFL, members got the opportunity to test their skills on the team's practice field while learning some tips from the pros themselves. Not even light rain during the afternoon session could dampen the mood.
"The best event is when you get to throw," said Hunter, 9, a first-time participant, in between drills. "I'm going to be a quarterback for my team."
Parents lined up around the field, snapping photos and applauding as kids performed the same drills the Packers practice on a daily basis.
Some caught over-the-shoulder touchdown passes from Packers wide receiver Ruvell Martin, while others had to get past first-round draft pick Justin Harrell in the agility drills. Players from the De Pere High School football team also helped lead the younger players through the fundamentals of the game.
"It's a great experience for all the kids to be out here on Ray Nitschke Field to play a little football," said Packers punter Jon Ryan.
"This is cool," said Andrew, 11, another first-time participant. "I haven't done it yet but the running back drill looks like my favorite."
Members of the Junior Power Pack took part in either the morning or afternoon session, each lasting two hours. In addition to the skills clinic, members also received free admission into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame.
With both the morning and afternoon session holding off rain showers, it proved to be an experience none of the participants will forget any time soon.
"Our fan club membership has doubled in size in the past two years, and this is the main event," said marketing manager Michelle Palubicki. "The player interaction is great, and it's so rewarding for us as an organization."
The Junior Power Pack is open to children 14 years of age or younger. Click here to sign up. Registration forms can be found online.
