MAYWOOD, IL - Members of Proviso's football, flag football, and basketball teams received surprise visits from Chicago Bears Quarterback Justin Fields and Chicago Bulls Point Guard Jevon Carter on December 19.
Student-athletes from Proviso East and West football teams, alongside Proviso East's girls flag football team, gathered in the auditorium, anticipating an event co-sponsored by local non-profit organizations, Jadspep Football Organization, and Empowerment Church. The students engaged in fun competitions and discussions on what contributes to the success of student-athletes both on and off the field. The excitement escalated when the special guest was revealed to be Bears starting quarterback, Justin Fields.
Fields shared words of wisdom and his principles for success, concluding by gifting each student their own authentic Bears jerseys.
Later in the day, Proviso East's Boys and Girls Varsity Basketball teams received a special visit. Jevon Carter, a 2014 Proviso East graduate and current Chicago Bulls player, surprised the teams with brand-new basketball shoes. Carter emphasized the importance of giving back to his former high school, recalling the impact of former standout athlete Michael Finley, who similarly contributed during Carter's time at Proviso East.
"When I played here, there was a guy by the name Michael Finley who did this for us," said Carter. "I felt like it was only right to come back and do this for you all, because one day one of you might be me one day."
District 209 expresses gratitude for these connections with Chicago's professional teams, athletes, and local organizations investing in the students of Proviso.
