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He was pretty good when he played for Beaufort High. He got even better when he played for Newberry College. And now, besides being in his 6th year of playing pro ball, he is working hard to give back to the community that gave him his start. Last Friday and Saturday, Ron Parker, his twin brother Donald, other Kansas Chiefs players, and a myriad of coaches and supporters somehow organized a mammoth group of young people to be inspired by a pro. And that’s what they got. Inspiration wrapped in a strong message on how important it is to do well in school, listen, learn and practice. And to be a stand-up guy.

Players from grades 3 through 12 came to Beaufort High School to give it all they got. All ages, sizes, shapes and dreams. Snacks, pizzas and beverages were provided and the Beaufort Fire Department was there on Saturday to potentially provide a cooling shower to some very sweaty, determined and excited participants. Ron said his goal with providing the camp was to show kids that hard work, honesty, and real effort will pay off in the end.

What does Ron do in the off season? “Practice” he says. “Weights, running, conditioning and maybe a little fun time thrown in.” This offseason definitely had its fun moments as Ron signed a new five-year, $25 million contract with the Chiefs.

“My goal is to have a better season than last year, to make more impact plays than I did last year and at the end of the season be able to look back and say, ‘I got better,’ “ Ron said. “I just want to improve from year to year.”

Well, you now have about 500 new fans plus lots of parents and coaches rooting for you every weekend.