The air was filled with kids’ excited screams on a hot Sunday morning in August as the emcee announced Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell to the crowd of local youth. Their hands reached out for high-fives as O’Connell raced down line to join his teammates. This wasn’t a typical back to school haircut experience for 50 local students who took part in the Raiders’ 4th annual Back-To-School Free Haircuts and Beautician Services. This was something more.
During the football season, players’ schedules are packed with practices, meetings and games, leaving them little time to relax or be with their families. And on this Sunday, it wasn’t just checking off a box for these players who braved the heat staying past their slotted time to play games and talk with the kids. With little time to themselves during the season, it’s great to see players using it to give back to the community.