The Chicago Bears were excited to host over 400 children from various charitable organizations at Bears Training Camp in Bourbonnais this summer. Groups from UNO (United Neighborhoods Organization), USO of Illinois, Starlight Foundation, Special Olympics Illinois, Special Children's Charities and the Chicago Park District were guests of the Bears on different days throughout camp. All of the kids received lunch and Bears goodies, watched practice from a private set of bleachers, and had the chance to meet some of their favorite players and receive autographs following practice.
|
| Marc Trestman |
On Wednesday, August 7, hundreds of youth football players and cheerleaders turned out for Youth Football Day at Bears Training Camp. Kids who wore their youth football jerseys or cheer uniforms could stop by the Youth Football tent to register for cool Bears prizes, including autographed merchandise, Bears footballs, prize packs, and tickets to a Bears game.
Head Coach Marc Trestman and his staff continued a Training Camp tradition that began in 2004 when they donated bicycles to deserving area children following the last practice at ONU on Tuesday, August 13. The coaching staff used the bicycles to get around campus throughout camp, instead of using golf carts. The Bears and head equipment manager Tony Medlin once again worked with local agencies, including the Bourbonnais Police Department and the Iroquois-Kankakee Regional Office of Education, to identify 24 children to receive the new bicycles.
After practice ended, the coaches began wheeling their bikes over to some very excited children. The coaches spent a few minutes visiting with the kids, explaining how to shift gears, adjust the seat, and asking what they planned to do with their new wheels. In addition, each child received a helmet, bike lock and water bottle. A video of the bike giveaway can be viewed here.
