Since 2013, Riley Children’s Health and Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck have partnered for the Change the Play program, which seeks to positively impact health and wellness of kids in Indiana.
The program is touring the Hoosier State this week with special hour-long camps, making its first stop in Fort Wayne. Dozens of kids filled Bishop John M. D’Arcy Stadium at the University of St. Francis Monday morning, with the Colts quarterback in attendance.
Luck says it’s important to educate children at a young age on the importance of healthy habits with regard to nutrition, sleep and stress management, among other areas. But kids can be stubborn, so how do you do that?
“Encouraging kids to go out and play and not spend eight hours looking at a screen all day," said Luck. "And to get those messages across, you’ve got to have fun. I really believe that, and we’ve got some great athletes from St. Francis here trying to make sure the kids have fun and learn something.”
Two Change the Play camps took place Monday in Fort Wayne, one at 10:30 in the morning, the other at 12:30 in the afternoon.
Kael Hunter is 11 years old, and took part in the first camp. For him, Luck’s support means a lot.
“I was 16 months when I went to Riley Hospital, so I don’t remember anything," he said. "I’m not a fan of the Colts but I can’t believe I’m with Andrew Luck right now.”
Donning white receiving gloves, Kael was able to catch a pass from Luck himself.
Change the Play will stop in Evansville on Tuesday, and finish its brief tour of the state with a visit to Indianapolis on Wednesday.
