There was once a time Lorain athletes did not receive opportunities like free camps from the Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland Browns Youth High School Football Coordinator and Clearview grad Brandon Moore (Class of 2019) remembered those times.
“When I was growing up, I would wish for opportunities like these,” Moore said.
July 9, the Browns hosted its annual Cleveland Browns Legends Clinic at George Daniel Field.
Two-time all-pro cornerback Hanford Dixon made an appearance, as he represented the Browns’ alumni.
“They understand the techniques in football. They just need a little tweak here and there,” Dixon said.
As he did not play football until ninth grade, Dixon preached self belief to the young participants.
Former Brown Hanford Dixon motivates campers before drills in Lorain on July 9. (Randy Meyers – for The Morning Journal)
“If I had listened to a lot of people growing up, I would not have played professional football,” he said. “They would say that you are not going to make it or you are not good enough to make it. Believe in yourself, and you can do anything that you want to do.”
The camp was free, and participants ranged from boys and girls ages 8-14.
Not only did the Browns bring opportunity, but also hope, according to Moore.
“A lot of these kids don’t get the opportunity to play ball, or get in those youth camps that you have to pay for,” Moore said. “Being able to throw in a free community camp means that they are able to work on skills and drills and learn from high school athletes that they’ll one day become.”
Lorain football players took part in coaching the drills, which included 10 drills to improve basic fundamentals and had competitions afterward.
“(The camp) is exciting for the community,” Lorain coach James Boyeas said. “The Cleveland Browns have done a lot of great things. Before my time, we got our field turf thanks to them. Any time they contact us to see if we want to host one, it is an easy yes for me.”
Several current Titans once took part in Browns camps when they were younger. Lorain offensive lineman Deonte Edwards recalls fond memories and their effect on him.
“I used to join these camps all the time,” he said. “Getting to work with the high school kids was such a good experience, because I got to see what I wanted to do. I was inspired by them. To know that (the kids) might be inspired by what we are doing out here on Friday nights is very cool.”
Boyeas used to give his players turned coaches advice. This year, he allowed his players to run the show.
“It is important to bring energy and show them the exact way to do the drill,” Edwards said. “If they make mistakes, you correct them, but in a positive way, uplift them and make sure they are having a good time.”
Originally Published: July 9, 2025 at 5:58 PM EDT