Today, a reminder was presented on why Alabamians love Jalen Hurts.
Few athletes are appreciated at two different schools and two fan bases, but Hurts has it.
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He spent his final collegiate season at Oklahoma; however, Alabama fans saw him for three years.
As a native of Channelview, Texas, Hurts did a lot for the Crimson Tide’s program. He led it to a Southeastern Conference Championship during his freshman year in 2016 and guided it to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game in 2017. Hurts came off the bench in the second half of the 2018 SEC title game to deliver Alabama to victory, and he set some school records. The Philadelphia Eagles selected him in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, and Tide fans are excited to see what he does in his second season.
Before he takes the field, Hurts returned to the state of Alabama for his youth football camp.
Former Alabama QB Jalen Hurts hosting his youth camp in Hoover.
He’s having so much fun this morning. pic.twitter.com/CAF1NGHU0C
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) June 26, 2021
Yours truly of Touchdown Alabama Magazine was in attendance at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex as the field was packed.
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People came out to support Hurts, and he had an incredible time. No matter what drill he was in, Hurts and his brother — Averion Hurts Jr. — encouraged the youth and gave each one something to remember. Jalen screamed, laughed, cheered, and danced through the morning session. He caught passes, threw passes, and lined up as a defensive back to create some fun competition.
Jalen Hurts getting hyped over one of the campers getting an interception.@TDAlabamaMag pic.twitter.com/sL8X5mglRK
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) June 26, 2021
Jalen Hurts playing DB in this drill.
He learned a lot from Coach Saban. Camper made the catch though. pic.twitter.com/LANq05oVLD
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) June 26, 2021
Jalen Hurts breaking down with the campers. Effort on 3 …. Coach Hurts. pic.twitter.com/JRU93TiNG2
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) June 26, 2021
You have to ❤️ this.
Little children giving Jalen Hurts two 👏 and a Ric Flair! So much fun. pic.twitter.com/gDWBBcEdD3
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) June 26, 2021
Jalen Hurts has the campers running go routes. pic.twitter.com/aCHlS3uanL
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) June 26, 2021
The parents enjoyed their sons and nephews having fun; however, they were more impressed by Hurts’ message.
A rare breed is working with the next wave of talent youth.
Jalen Hurts camp was awesome! pic.twitter.com/GImmBSZSCe
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) June 26, 2021
After each one-on-one, Hurts reminded everyone that resiliency, hard work, and self-confidence are important traits. All the campers and their families got photos with Hurts.
Who’s ready to TURN UP with Coaches Jalen and Averion Hurts?! pic.twitter.com/rmNxhOnb0U
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) June 26, 2021
A rare breed is molding the next wave of great athletes, and he takes joy in it.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
