PRINCETON, W.Va. (WVVA) - On the first day of Read Across America, the annual reading motivation and awareness campaign that fosters a lifelong love of reading in school children.
At Melrose Elementary, former NFL player and WVU standout Owen Schmitt came to read his new children’s book “The Little Fullback That Could,” a semi-autobiographical work that intends to inspire young folks in the Mountain State.
Schmitt considers it a privilege to read to the Melrose Cardinals and understands the importance of role models for those young and old.
“For me it’s about trying to inspire these kids to reach for their dreams and go for gold. You know, no pun intended about that, but really educate them on what they can actually accomplish,” Schmitt said.
After the reading, Schmitt gave every student a signed football card, with classes lined up to meet the former fullback.
Schmitt utilized creatives from West Virginia to edit, illustrate, and publish his debut work, emphasizing the talent and potential found in the state.
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