ACV Youth Football Players Take the Field as Steelers Honorary Co-Captains
Two ACV Youth Football players traded their usual Sunday view of the game for a spot much closer to the action last weekend. Seth Clawson and Zaarek Watkins were selected to serve as honorary co-captains at a Pittsburgh Steelers home game vs. Cincinnati.
The opportunity gave the boys a game day experience they won’t soon forget. They watched pregame warmups from the sideline, took part in on-field recognition, including the coin toss alongside the Steelers captains, and then enjoyed the game from the stands. For two young players who spend their own time practicing, competing, and cheering on their teammates, getting to stand on an NFL field was an incredible moment. They were even lucky enough to snag a pair of gloves from Steelers running back Lew Nichols.
The honorary co-captain program, organized by the Steeler Youth Football Development Program, celebrates local youth football players and gives them a chance to see the game they love from a whole new perspective. It was also a proud day for the families, coaches, and teammates who watched these boys grow through football.
Clawson and Watkins are proud members of the ACV Youth Senior Football Team. Seth is in his sixth season with the program, and Zaarek is in his fifth. Over those years, they’ve grown alongside their teammates, building friendships and learning what it means to show up for one another. They lead on and off the field through their effort, encouragement, and commitment to the team. Both boys are multi-sport athletes participating in wrestling, basketball, and baseball-- never an off-season for them.
Falcons Head Coach Corey Clawson said of the boys, “Seth and Zaarek have been part of this team for years, and it shows in the way they support the players around them. They work hard, encourage their teammates, and lead by example. We’re proud to see them recognized with this opportunity.”
For Zaarek, the highlight of the day was meeting Steelers players T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, and Ben Skowronek. Seth’s favorite moment was receiving a pair of gloves from Lew Nichols.
Congratulations to both boys on this special honor. We hope they carry the memory of that day, and their love of the game, with them for years to come.
