MARYVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee starting quarterback Nico Iamaleava held a youth football camp at Maryville High School on Saturday.
About 100 children of all ages attended the NIL event, and their parents lined up outside to secure a good seat to watch their children interact with Iamaleava.
The camp was a unique experience for the children, filled with autograph signings, a memorable picture session, engaging drills and the thrill of catching throws from Iamaleava. Each child also received a special shirt with the words "Nico Iamaleava Football Camp 2024" and a graphic of him in action.
For Iamaleava, being able to inspire the youth around him is special.
"I just wanted to give back to the community," said Iamaleava. " I appreciate all the love and support they give me, and I just wanted to come back out here and give back to the little kids."
Iamaleava said he was once in the position of looking up to his favorite players, and to now be a role model for young kids in the community is full circle.
"I was once in their position, so you know, it's cool to be in the position I am," said Iamaleava. "Being able to be looked up to is fun."
He also said events like these bring him closer to the Knoxville community.
"I think every day, waking up and going to the facility, it feels like home, so giving back to the community and coming out here and hanging out with the kids and getting more of a feel of what Knoxville is has been fun, and I think it's good for me too," said Iamaleava.
