Through the hard work of the National Honor Society, and the benefits of “Champ’s Change Drive,” the shutdown Broncos’ Cornerback Champ Bailey visits TJ during a celebratory assembly.
Bronco Champ Bailey visited TJ to thank students for helping with the annual Champ's Change Drive. Photo by Tori Wallace
On October 30, Denver Broncos’ Cornerback Champ Bailey came to TJ to reward the National Honors Society for raising the most money in the “Champ’s Change Drive” from the Spring of 2012.
Champ started the drive after zeroing in on what he loved to do in the community. “When I was in Washington, and now here in Denver, I wanted to find something that made me feel good in the community, and this was the perfect opportunity,” said Bailey. The proceeds of Champ’s Change Drive go to the Denver Rescue Mission which helps shelter and feed the homeless of Denver.
The drive is a competition among local high schools, where the students donate loose change. TJ’s NHS ran the collection drive, and helped raise the most money out of all the high schools. The reward for raising the most money is a visit from Pro Bowler Bailey. CCTM Teacher and NHS Sponsor Eileen Adair said this type of community service is what NHS is all about. “I’m proud of the NHS officers – and all the students at TJ – who helped make this such a successful effort. It’s a nice payoff to have a real football star like Champ Bailey come to TJ and let the kids know that it benefits everyone when they work together toward a common, community goal,” she said.
Yet, Bailey was not at TJ just to talk about the drive. He was also here to talk about football and the favorite local team. He especially talked about Pro Bowl Quarterback Peyton Manning. “If you look at my track record I have never played with a good quarterback, ” said Bailey, “and now with Peyton the team is much better and every player is better prepared.” Bailey also gives credit to Manning as well as the defense for being ready to stop top-tier quarterbacks like Drew Brees, Matt Ryan, and Matt Schaub. “Peyton is so prepared, he knows the other quarterback and what they plan to do. He helps out the secondary and that is how we can shut them down,” said Bailey.
During the pep assembly, following a posting of the colors by the JROTC crew, and the singing of the National Anthem by Choir Teacher Edwina Hebert, Administrative Intern Wauneta Vann took up the emcee duties and helped the Spartans welcome Bailey. The cheerleaders led TJ in a rousing cheer for everyone’s effort, and finally Bailey awarded a signed football to Brendan Bonner, who was being recognized for his outstanding improvement in attendance this semester.
The galvanized student population waved and cheered for Bailey, and was happy with the fruits of NHS’s labor, and seemed to be inspired to give again.
