In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, the Los Angeles Rams hosted a series of community initiatives to celebrate the many cultures within the AAPI community that have contributed to Los Angeles' rich history. As part of the recognition, the Rams hosted a football clinic for more than 400 fourth through sixth graders at Cloverly Elementary School.
The clinic aimed to celebrate young members of the AAPI community and empower the next generation by showing them the pathways available on and off the field.
"This is such an incredible opportunity for our students," said Julia Johnson, Cloverly Elementary School principal. "For the [students] to see that this organization made time to serve them, shows that acts of service matter and that we do need to give back to our community if we want it to grow and be successful."
Terrence and Austin, sixth graders at Cloverly Elementary, were surprised that an NFL team took the time to come to their school. They were excited to not only learn football skills but also hear the team discuss how to treat people on and off the field.
The event kicked off with a Character Chat about perseverance, perspective and developing leadership skills. Johnson thought the discussion was a great reminder to be kind and respectful and continue to work hard in school to be successful.
Following the panel discussion, students participated in football-related activities, relay races and dance stations with Rams Cheerleaders. Rams mascot Rampage brought excitement by interacting with students and participating in football drills.
Cloverly fifth grader, Abigail, wore her Rams t-shirt to the camp and was excited to learn from the organization. "It feels really cool and professional because we get to see how the sport is done." Her classmate, Ivy, shared, "I never would have thought I'd have a chance to meet [people from the Rams]. I'll definitely remember this for my whole life."
Throughout May, the Rams surprised After-School All-Stars Senior Vice President of Leadership and Community Outreach Donny Fa'aliliu as a 2024 pLAymaker and hosted a virtual career panel discussion in partnership with EVERFI featuring members of the Rams AAPI Employee Resource Community. In partnership with AMAZN HQ, the team also produced a three-part miniseries honoring the late Asian-American sports hero and legend, Roman Gabriel Jr. The episodes aired on May 3, 10 and 17 on the Rams' official channels including Instagram, X and Facebook.
For more information about the Rams' community outreach efforts, visit www.therams.com/community.
