Bucs Players Spread Holiday Cheer at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital

Unforgettable Transformational Opportunities

The bus was revving, and the clock was calling. An afternoon at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital had come to an end, and a dozen or more Bucs players were heading out the lobby doors.

A quick head count by Duke Preston, the team’s vice president of player engagement, told him he was missing a handful of his jumbo-sized Christmas carolers. He called upstairs to a colleague and was told there were three players who wanted to visit one more room. No problem, Preston said, let me know when they’re done.

A few minutes passed, and Preston got a text message. Hop on the bus and don’t worry about us was the gist.

The three players had decided to stick around.

Heartfelt Gestures and Special Bonds

Transformational opportunities are what Preston calls these visits. It’s not just handshakes and autographs, it’s a chance to see the impact a professional athlete can have. An opportunity to touch lives and, in return, to experience real-world bravery and fear. Heartache and hope. Mostly, to understand empathy and compassion.

That’s what moved Tanner Knue, a rookie receiver on the practice squad, to call an audible during the trip to St. Petersburg two weeks ago along with tight end Devin Culp and offensive lineman Elijah Klein. The children, Knue said, had been told the Bucs were visiting. How could the players leave without making sure every child had been seen?

Going Above and Beyond

“We were told it was time to pack up, so we started rolling the (gift) cart towards the elevator,” said Klein. “That’s when Tanner took the initiative. He was like, ‘Nah, I’m going to stay behind.’ Everybody was like, ‘What are you talking about? Dude, we’ve got to get on the bus.’ He said, ‘No, just give me the cart. I’ll stay behind and Uber back.’ So Devin and I overheard and we’re like, ‘You know what? He’s right.’ There were some kids who were left out.

Spreading Joy and Making Memories

So, on they went for another hour or so. Handing out footballs, blankets, hats and other gifts. They met parents, they talked to kids about video games, they sang Christmas carols, and experienced everything Preston envisions with these monthly trips to various hospitals and community spots.

Making a Lasting Impact

“What I try to help our rookies see is the kind of person they can be,” Preston said. “The impact they can have on other lives will last way longer than whatever they do on the scoreboard or between the white lines.”

Powerful Reminders and Valuable Lessons

Culp, Knue, and Klein shared a ride back in silence after the visit, reflecting on the experience. They were touched by the resilience and positivity of the children they met, inspiring them to do more in the community.

Conclusion

The Bucs players’ visit to Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital showcased the power of small gestures and the importance of giving back. These young athletes learned valuable lessons in empathy and compassion, reminding us all of the impact we can have on others.

FAQs

Q: How did the players react to the children at the hospital?

A: The players were moved by the children’s resilience and positivity, prompting them to extend their visit and ensure every child felt valued.

Q: What was the most memorable moment from the visit?

A: One player recounted a touching interaction with a young cancer patient who was alone in his room, highlighting the importance of connecting with and supporting those in need.