New England Patriots wide receiver Randy Moss and linebacker Adalius Thomas welcomed 1,000 children back to school in Dorchester, MA, with words of advice and encouragement.  At the Blue Hill Club, the two all-pro athletes spent the afternoon greeting each scholar with a handshake and brand new backpack for the school year, provided by the Adalius Thomas Foundation, the Randy Moss Foundation and ePromos.

Both Adalius and Randy spoke to the scholars about what it means to be successful and how excellence in school, just like excellence on the football field, requires dedication, hard work, and practice.  “Remember the five P’s,” Adalius instructed the children.  “Proper preparation produces positive performance.”  Sharing some on-the-field examples, Randy and Adalius told scholars that one’s ability to succeed depends on their work ethic and the choices they make in life. 

Adalius, an all-pro linebacker signed this year as a free agent from Baltimore, is known for his impact on the field as well as in the community.  His S.L.A.S.H. (Sportsmen Lifting Academics and Sponsoring Hope) fund sponsored a range of charitable programs in Baltimore as well as in his home state of Alabama.  Now, he turns his attention to Massachusetts, from Boston to North Attleboro.

“The mentoring, tutoring and guidance these students receive from programs like BELL and the Boys & Girls Clubs plays a critical role in helping these young people reach their full potential,” said Adalius.  “It was important to me to get involved in supporting Boston’s youth, and I’m proud to sponsor this event for BELL and Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston.”

Randy, one of the most prolific wide receivers in NFL history also joined the Patriots this year, after playing in Oakland and Minnesota.  As a new-comer to Boston, Randy plans to make his presence known in the local community as well as in opponents’ end zones.  He has established the Randy Moss Foundation to support community efforts in Boston and across the country.

“September represents a great new start for these students,” said Randy.  “As I begin my new season, I’m looking forward to helping these students get excited and focus on the fundamentals for successful new year.”

“Adalius and Randy are delivering a fantastic message about preparation, perseverance and the importance of strong mentors in one’s life,” said Earl Martin Phalen, CEO and co-founder of BELL.  “They have taken a leadership role in investing in the tremendous potential of our young people.”