Column: Holt's 7th Annual Football Camp Ignites Local Talent, Fuels Community Spirit
The spirit of football and community upliftment converged this past Saturday at Lexington Senior High School as Lexington native and Virginia Tech alumnus Cory Holt hosted his 7th annual football camp. From 8 AM to 11 AM, the campus buzzed with an infectious energy, as young athletes from across the county engaged in "full throttle" drills, watched intently by parents who filled the stands.
Through his foundation, Holt’s commitment to his hometown shines brightly through this annual event, which has become a staple for aspiring football players. The camp is renowned for its high-octane atmosphere, maintaining an unwavering level of enthusiasm from start to finish. Participants, ranging in age and skill level, had the invaluable opportunity to hone their abilities through a series of specialized football drills and realistic game situation simulations.
"This camp is truly a testament to what Cory Holt means to Lexington," remarked Anthony Fuller, another proud Lexington native who expressed his deep admiration for Holt's consistent efforts. "He’s not just teaching football; he’s instilling discipline, teamwork, and a sense of purpose in these young people. It's incredibly impactful for our youth."
The palpable energy on the field was matched only by the visible dedication of the coaching staff. Young attendees, like Jayden, a returning participant, articulated their appreciation for the demanding yet supportive environment. "I love this camp because the coaches really push you to go further, to reach your limits," Jayden explained, adding, "They also take care of us, providing good breaks, plenty of water, and hot meals." This attention to detail, from providing camp shirts to ensuring a hot meal after every session, underscores Holt's holistic approach to youth development.
Jaylen Morgan, a rising 9th grader at Lexington Senior High, specifically highlighted the tangible improvements he experienced. "I was really able to enhance my catching and backpedaling today," Morgan said, showcasing the practical benefits derived from the skilled drills. These personalized gains contribute to the overall athletic growth of the participants, preparing them not just for the upcoming season, but for future challenges.
Cory Holt, a name synonymous with excellence on and off the field, continuously seeks avenues to give back to the community that shaped him. His vision extends beyond the gridiron, encompassing educational empowerment through the "Stay Lame Entrepreneur Scholarship." This unique scholarship, designed to support aspiring young minds, traditionally awards one student per year. However, in a testament to Holt's unwavering generosity and desire to make a greater impact, the past two years have seen him award three scholarships annually, significantly broadening the reach of his philanthropic endeavors.
The most recent recipient of the prestigious Stay Lame Entrepreneur Scholarship was Iziah King, a recent graduate of West Davidson Senior High School. King, whose connection to the scholarship is a poignant reminder of its personal significance, exemplifies the type of driven and promising young individuals Holt aims to uplift.
Beyond the football field and academic scholarships, the spirit of community support continues to thrive in Lexington. An organization or initiative, simply identified as "Holt," is rallying the community for a significant event on Thursday, August 2nd. From 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Lexington Senior High School's parking lot will transform into a hub of generosity, as Holt distributes school supplies and a multitude of other essential items designed to assist and uplift the local community. This event further underscores the collaborative spirit and dedication to mutual aid that defines Lexington.
Through his annual football camp and the impactful "Stay Lame Entrepreneur Scholarship," Cory Holt remains a beacon of hope and opportunity for the youth of Lexington. His dedication, admired by peers like Anthony Fuller and appreciated by countless young athletes and their families, continues to lay a strong foundation for future generations, proving that true success lies in empowering others.
Thomas Martin
