Former and current Minnesota Vikings host clinic for kids at Big Cat

Some current and past members of the Minnesota Vikings visited Big Cat Stadium to help teach kids about the benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle.

It is always a great day for kids when they get an opportunity to spend time with current and former members of the Minnesota Vikings. This year, youth at Big Cat Stadium at the University of Minnesota, Morris got to meet with a few members of the franchise while learning in the process.

According to a post on the Morris Sun Tribune website, a giant inflatable Vikings mascot was the signal to children that the professional football team from Minnesota had infiltrated Big Cat to teach about football and a healthy lifestyle.

The football clinic and wellness event was led by former Vikings linebacker E.J. Henderson who brought two special guests from Minnesota’s current roster: longsnapper Kevin McDermott and kicker Kai Forbath.

The clinic was part of a ‘takeover’ of the school by the Minnesota Vikings as a reward for winning the In The Game Award sponsored by the Minnesota Vikings and Innovative Office Solutions and being named Minnesota’s Football Program of the Year.

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Children ranging from kindergarten age to the 9th grade were at the clinic, where they participated in drills and educational talks.

"“I like the passing drill,” Derek Waldbeser said. “They threw us passes and we had to catch them.”"

Football was only part of the day though, as Viktor the Viking stressed a healthy lifestyle, including eating right.

"“You have grains, protein, dairy, fruits and vegetable,”  Brady Mahoney said. “Those five things are what the Vikings have every morning when they have a game.”"

The kids at Big Cat Stadium at the University of Minnesota, Morris knew this was a unique opportunity and some were overwhelmed meeting the players.

"“I thought it was pretty cool,” player Levin Strand said. “You got to meet people you see on TV. It’s not everyday you get to see someone famous.”"

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It is always fantastic to see members of the Minnesota Vikings participating in community events, especially those which help to keep kids active and healthy. Huge thanks go out to the Minnesota Vikings, E.J. Henderson, Kai Forbath, Viktor the Viking, and the University of Minnesota, Morris for making such a special and educational day for the youth of Morris, Minnesota.