With the draft quickly approaching the NFLPA announced a series of events that will be held for the rookies and their families. Here is the official statement, which was posted on www.nfllockout.com.
The 2011 NFLPA Rookie Debut kicks off Thursday, April 28. Activities for the three-day event will not conflict with the evening broadcasts of the NFL Draft on April 28-29.
The 2011 NFLPA Rookie Debut and “One Team” Celebration is designed to welcome incoming rookies and their families to the NFLPA family, and enable relationships to form between current and former players, NFLPA and NFLPI staff and select corporate partners. The entire weekend is a celebration of legacy—of past, present and future pro football players making the journey from prospect to professional. Players will have the opportunity to learn about life in the NFL from their colleagues and prospective teammates, along with valuable insight from the Professional Football Players Mothers and Fathers Associations.
Along with a variety of public events and media engagements, players will have the opportunity to participate in the NFLPA’s community outreach program called “Let Us Play,” which encourages players, parents, teachers and volunteers to help kids lead a more healthy and active lifestyle. The weekend culminates with Saturday evening’s main event in New York City, which brings together current players, former players and Hall of Famers to celebrate the game of pro football and welcome its newest members. Activities will include a variety of entertainment, interviews, performances and a host of player-fan interaction.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
4:00: PM Private Reception
Friday, April 29, 2011
9:30 AM: Public Appearances (Media, etc.)
11:00 AM: Lunch with Corporate Sponsors Afternoon Public Appearances (Media, etc)
Late Afternoon: Afternoon Social Engagement
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Morning: “Let Us Play” Fitness & Skills Clinic (Harlem, N.Y.)
Afternoon: Player-Fan Connection/Engagement Activity – TBD
7:00 PM + : 2011 NFLPA Rookie Debut & “One Team” Celebration –Players, draftees, sponsors, VIPs and family members invited
It is going to be very interesting to see how this plays out. I have a funny feeling some scheduling conflicts will come up that will limit the player’s availability during the draft.