Pro Football Player Visits His Roots

Shareece Wright, the San Diego Chargers’ cornerback and Colton High School graduate, traveled back to his home town to visit the community and to spend some time with the kids of the Luque Community Center, across the street from where Wright grew up. Anthony Fernandez, the recreation coordinator, wanted to put on a fun event for the teens before spring break ended. Wright gave an inspirational talk to the youth about staying in school, getting good grades and becoming the best person you can be. The kids were really fascinated to hear how he was from their neighborhood and some were even more amazed he went to school with their family members. After his speech the kids had a ton of questions and Wright patiently answered each one of them. Soon after, the kids excitedly lined up for a little individual meet and greet with Wright. Some of the teen boys waited in the recreation room for Wright to sign autographs and said they have never been so close to a football player before and were excited to meet him. The children beamed proudly as each one presented their own personally designed Chargers’ Helmet for Shareece’s autograph. This was a craft Colton Community Services staff had participants do in anticipation of Wright’s arrival. Wright not only signed each one but even took the time to give positive feedback and complement their skills. Jonathon Garcia was there with his brother waiting for a signature from Wright and said, “I really dig it. I think it’s important to come back to the community and celebrate when someone does something awesome.” Yanni Wright, Wright’s wife, attended the event with their young son, Elijah, who is just 11 weeks old. “We came to support Shareece and we want (Elijah) to get used to coming to these events,” she said, “the teens look up to Shareece and he encourages them to do well." The youth, volunteers and even some adults lined up to have Wright autograph hats, footballs and San Diego Chargers memorabilia. After the meet and greet, Wright posed for a few photos with the kids and promised to come back next year for another visit. Wright told staff this is one of his favorite things to do, speak with the youth of today, and try to inspire them to follow their dreams. “If I can make it, you can too!” The eventful day concluded with a barbeque and a game of flag football. This was such an amazing opportunity for the children to see that even when you become famous it’s important to give back and try to be a good role model. Colton Community Services gives a big shout out to a wonderful man for taking the time to give back in such a big way.