Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston is ready for his second season under center in the NFL.
After working through OTA's and minicamp, Winston began his summer vacation by hitting the field at Sunlake High School in Land O Lakes for his inaugural ProCamp.
The quarterback is known for his unique personality. And he continued to show his high energy and charsima with over 300 campers ranging from first to eighth grade.
Winston says he loves being out on the field with the campers. He plans on doing his camps and other player's camps throughout the summer.
"The more camps that I do, the more I will stay in football shape," said the former 'Nole. "I love being out there and having fun with this kids. This beats just sitting at home and not doing anything."
Winston was as active as if he was leading a game-winning 2-minute drive. He hit every single training group and interacted with every single camper. Whether it was throwing a pass, giving a high five, or talking football, Winston wanted to make sure he was there for the youngsters who showed up.
"When I was growing up in Alabama, I would go to camps but never go that NFL coach, or player, experience," recalled Winston. "I wanted these kids to have that (connection and experience) while also learning about teamwork. That's the motto out here: 'Teamwork makes the dream work."
Patterning with Citi, and other businesses, Winston had a goal of making sure his camp (paid camper admission) would allow for help in the form of financial aid for some campers without the means to attend. Scholarships were awarded to allow children of all backgrounds and areas to be able to come out to Sunlake High school.
"This is the first time we have gotten to work with Jameis," said ProCamp representative Sean Rowland. "He was here about an hour before most campers. He has been running around with his smile and energy since 8:30 this morning. We are so thrilled to be involved with someone like him."
Winston also wanted his camp to promote issues beyond the playing field. He asked longtime Bucs super fan, and Bucs hall of fame member, Keith "Big Nasty" Kuznig to come and speak about his program to help today's youth understand the dangers of drug use.
"Jameis is an amazing personality," said Kuznig. "He knows how important it is to educate kids on this issues from a young age. I was so excited to be here and help keep this young people on the right path."
Winston says he will hold a camp back in his home state of Alabama later this summer.
The Bucs open up training camp on July 28.