ORLANDO, Fla. – As the Miami Hurricanes and Iowa State Cyclones are preparing for Saturday’s Pop-Tarts Bowl, players from both teams got a chance to let loose and have fun with kids from the Central Florida community.
The Day for Kids took place early Thursday at Fun Spot America Orlando.
The event pairs local children, including many from the communities of West Lakes near Camping World Stadium, with players from each team for a morning of fun in the park.
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Monica Murray was at the park with her three grandchildren and said they’ve been filled with excitement for the meetup all week.
“They look forward to it,” Murray said. “It’s something really special for them. They get to come out and meet the players from different teams that participate in the bowl game.”
Murray’s grandkids were teamed up with several players, including Iowa State defensive tackle J.R. Singleton.
“They want to go on all the big rides and it’s killing me,” Singleton jokingly said. “I ain’t been on these rides in years, but I’m loving it.”
There were also visits from the Pop-Tarts Bowl mascot and the championship trophy was on display for photo opportunities.
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While all of the players have their eyes on winning the trophy, Thursday’s event was about much more than a football game.
“It’s truly a blessing, honestly. I think they’re having more of an effect on me today than I’m having on them,” Singleton said. “Just being able to be a kid for a bit, enjoy them, and there’s nothing else I’d rather do right now.”
Kickoff for the Pop-Tarts Bowl is Saturday at 3:30 p.m.
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