MEXICO CITY, Nov. 17, 2017 – To ensure all kids have an equal opportunity to be active, the National Football League (NFL) teamed up with Shriners Hospitals for Children® — Mexico to host a PLAY 60 All-Ability event before this Sunday’s Patriots-Raiders game at Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.
The event was held onsite at the hospital with local patients, New England Patriots Legends Kevin Faulk and Steve Grogan, Oakland Raiders Legends Fred Biletnikoff and Willie Brown, NFL cheerleaders and mascots. All participated in football-themed activities, fitness stations, face painting and other physical activities.
Children with mobility challenges are less likely to be as active as their peers, which can lead to obesity, lack of strength and other health issues. That is why Shriners Hospitals for Children, a recognized leader in care for children with orthopaedic conditions, partnered with the NFL to create the NFL PLAY 60 All-Ability Guide. The guide includes adaptive play activities for children of varying physical abilities to help them live an active lifestyle.
“The overall health and well-being of our patients is our number one priority,” said Jerry Gantt, chairman of the Board of Trustees for Shriners Hospitals for Children. “Our partnership with the NFL encourages adaptive and all-ability activities so that every child has the opportunity to lead an active lifestyle. Interacting with former NFL players reinforces the message that all kids can get out and play 60 minutes a day.”
The NFL has a long-standing commitment to promote health and wellness for young fans. For ten years, PLAY 60 has brought the NFL together with partner organizations to increase physical activity among youth.
“The NFL is committed to ensuring all kids, regardless of ability, have the opportunity to PLAY 60,” said Anna Isaacson, NFL senior vice president of social responsibility. “We are proud to partner with Shriners Hospitals for Children to empower youth in Mexico to lead a healthy and active lifestyle.”