Lions WR Jameson Williams Hosts Youth Football Camp, Draws Big Crowd at Notre Dame Prep
On a sunny Sunday afternoon, Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams brought energy and inspiration to a youth football camp at Pontiac’s Notre Dame Prep High School. Around 300 young athletes, ranging from 6 to 16 years old, took part in the event, organized in partnership with FlexWork Sports Management — a company known for hosting camps with pro and college athletes across North America.
The excitement was palpable as the crowd of kids began chanting “We want JaMo!” Their enthusiasm was rewarded not only with the appearance of Williams but also with a special guest — his Lions teammate, safety Kerby Joseph. Every camper had the chance to snap a photo with Williams, and several lucky ones even managed to catch a long ball from the speedy wideout himself. Joseph also interacted with the young players, at one point autographing a camper’s shoes.
“I do it for the joy on their faces,” said Williams. “A lot of these kids may never meet someone in my position. I want to be visible in the community and give them something positive to hold onto.”
Campers were divided into age groups and rotated through skill stations, including ladder drills and backpedal exercises, all designed to sharpen their football fundamentals. Local high school players from the Notre Dame Prep “Irish” team also volunteered at each station, helping run drills and mentor the younger players.
Josh Laura, a senior defensive back for Notre Dame Prep’s defending Division 5 state champion team, enjoyed the opportunity. “It’s amazing to be out here with these kids and give them a glimpse into what football is all about. It’s a great experience for everyone involved.”
Head coach Pat Fox echoed those sentiments, saying the event provided valuable exposure for the campus and helped grow the game. “It’s not just about showing off our great facilities. It’s about growing the sport, letting kids have fun, learn teamwork, and interact with positive role models like Jameson and Kerby. We love hosting things like this.”
When asked about whether any campers dared to challenge his famous speed, Williams chuckled. “Not yet. But they always want to know if I’m faster than another NFL guy, and of course, I say yes.” Though Williams never ran the 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine due to injury, he has publicly hinted he could post an eye-popping 4.1-second time. On Sunday, he mentioned he might run a 100-meter race one day — just for fun.
Reflecting on his own youth camp experiences, Williams recalled being starstruck by fellow St. Louis native and ex-Patriots running back Laurence Maroney.
As the day wrapped up, the event left everyone — players, coaches, and families — with something to smile about. And for the Notre Dame Prep players, it also served as a powerful reminder: the high school football season is right around the corner.
“I’m fired up,” Laura added. “We’ve got key returners on both sides of the ball, and I can’t wait to get going.
