Through blue and maroon jerseys, there was taping, cutting and bow placing on hundreds of shoe boxes.

Players from the North Carolina Central University and Duke University football teams gave up their Thursday night to give back to underprivileged kids in Durham.

"It's been a real fun experience," NCCU defensive tackle Teryl White said.

More than 300 shoe boxes were filled with essentials like shampoo and toothpaste. While the gifts may not be glamorous, the act behind them shines even brighter.

"I've been fortunate to be at Duke and my teammates feel the same way," said quarterback, Glenn Williams. "It makes us feel very good to give back to the community."

The feeling of helping others is one many players hope kids who receive these boxes carry with them.

"While we're lucky enough to get scholarships at N.C. Central and at Duke, you know there are plenty of people we've known in the past [who] didn't get where we are today," White said. "Kids look up to us, and we always need to share that positive image in the community; it always feels really good to give back.

The shoeboxes will be delivered to various Durham Parks and Recreation centers on Dec. 19.

Related Links

1. North Carolina Central University