NFL donates to youth football camps

NEW YORK, June 4 (UPI) -- The National Football League has given $550,000 to 150 NFL players and coaches to support their free youth football camps this summer.

The league said in a release Thursday that the funds will reach 35,000 young football players.

The fund, established in 1998, has awarded more than $1.9 million in player and coach camp grants in recent years.

Among those running them are ESPN analyst and former NFL quarterback Ron Jaworski, Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice, New Orleans Saints Coach Sean Payton, Dallas Cowboys tight end Jason Witten, Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Torry Holt and Indianapolis Colts defensive back Bob Sanders.

"As they prepare for the season, our players and coaches also recognize the importance giving back during the offseason," NFL Commissioner and NFL Youth Football Fund board of directors member Roger Goodell said in a statement. "Youth football camps are an excellent way to help young fans learn skills and stay active and fit."