NFL Running Back Jonathan Ward Hosts 6th Annual Youth Football Skills Camp in Hometown of Kankakee
Kankakee High School – Kankakee, IL (Jun 14, 2025) – Jonathan Ward, NFL running back, returned to his roots this past weekend to host the 6th Annual Jonathan Ward Skills Camp—an event dedicated to empowering young athletes through football, mentorship, and community.
The camp welcomed 75 participants, ages 5 through 17, for a day of drills, football fundamentals, and a competitive 7-on-7 tournament. Prizes included exclusive Steelers merchandise, new cleats, and giveaways from local vendors.
Ward, who launched the camp alongside his agent Orlando Arnold, childhood coaches, family, and friends, reflected on how far the event has come.
“Time flies by, and here we are in Year 6. I literally just started with a dream, and now we’re here. It’s surreal,” said Ward.
This year’s event was proudly sponsored by MAVRX Sports Housing and its nonprofit arm, Pitch Initiative. MAVRX specializes in short-term, fully furnished housing for professional and collegiate athletes. Pitch Initiative, powered by MAVRX, is a 501(c)(3) organization focused on giving back through two core pillars: Youth Sports Accessibility and Athlete-Led Philanthropy.
Access to youth sports is a critical tool in shaping healthy, resilient, and well-rounded individuals. Participation in sports improves physical health, builds confidence, teaches responsibility, and fosters inclusion and teamwork. It is also linked to better academic outcomes and strengthened community ties.
Since its inaugural year, the Jonathan Ward Skills Camp has doubled in size, becoming a cornerstone event for the Kankakee community and a beacon of what’s possible when athletes invest back into the next generation.