Heart, Hustle & Harold Perkins Jr.—An Unforgettable Football Camp Experience
When Cameron from TruEdge Sports approached me about donating my services to the Harold Perkins Jr. Summer Camp at Elite Training Academy in Baton Rouge, Louisiana I had to do everything in my power to help make this camp a reality.
I’ll be honest—sports photography isn’t my specialty. I’ve mainly taken team photos and not much else in that realm. I am a commercial marketing and branding photographer in Baton Rouge. However, my son is a die hard passionate sports fan, and I couldn’t resist the chance to bring him along (especially since it was a free community event, haha!).
As soon as he learned that only two MVP-signed chains would be awarded, he became laser-focused on getting one for himself! Despite feeling a little hesitant about his height, he struck up a conversation with Harold Perkins Jr. and Wallace Foster IV. They inspired him with the message that his height wouldn’t hold him back and that determination can lead to anything we set our hearts on.
That’s exactly the spirit of the camp! It was all about having fun with football while honing skills under the guidance of world-class coaches, even though we had to practice indoors due to stormy weather. We were in the very same facility where LSU legends like Joe Burrow have trained—how cool is that? The Elite Training Academy was top-notch, and I’m so grateful they hosted this event. It made for some truly stunning photographs!
I can’t thank Harold Perkins Jr. enough for his passion, as well as all the players, volunteers, and incredible sponsors like Whataburger, who added so much to the camp’s energy with fantastic swag. My son felt valued and cherished, and I know this experience is one he will treasure for life.
Last night, he went to bed with excitement, promising me he would make me proud today. As soon as he got the chance to hold the MVP emblem, he declared he’d do whatever it took to earn one. That’s why I didn't hesitate when he wanted to add the Future MVP emblem to his custom Louisville Slugger souvenir bat we had made at the Louisville Museum just a few weeks ago.
At the end of camp he was surprised that his name was called as one of the winners! He was eager to thank Wallace Foster IV for the nomination but was gently redirected—he was quickly reminded that he hadn’t been given that MVP chain; he had earned it through sheer determination and heart.
As a father, I couldn’t ask for anything more. I already feel this Fathers Day weekend is complete. Huge thanks to WBRZ for covering this incredible event—Don't forget to check out WBRZ Coverage, Harold Perkins' interview and video coverage through the link HERE!
