Penn State football opened its doors to the 2023 THON families on Saturday, throwing a party at the Lash football complex during the first full day of the event. Not only was it a chance for families dealing with childhood cancer to cut loose and have fun with Penn State football players, but it was a chance for the team to bond and interact with people outside of the building. Cornerback Kalen King, who spoke after the event, said it was a refreshing experience,
“It means a lot because any time we can get time away from my football and just around other people, socially, it’s always good. Usually, we’re just in here with ourselves and our coaches and stuff. So to have visitors, especially kids, and that, is definitely a benefit for us,” he said
Check out the gallery of photos from the event on Saturday afternoon.
Penn State football THON day
Players and THON families cut loose
There were various activities for families to enjoy on Saturday. Players and kids played football together and raced through the Lasch building weight room, competed in life-sized bowling, and more. The most popular spot, outside of the player’s lounge, was the face painting station, dominated by the offensive line.
Penn State center Hunter Nourzad getting his face painted during the team’s THON party on Saturday afternoon. Freshman linebacker Tony Rojas, sporting his new number 13, waiting to get his face painted.Freshman lineman Anthony Donkoh pleading with quarterback Drew Allar to get his face painted with the group. Penn State center nick Dawkins doing color commentary and coaching on a game of Ping-Pong between players and THON kids.Rojas went the other direction from his offensive line teammates who chose rainbows and unicorns. Rojas chose Batman.Safety Kevin “KJ” Winston chatting with a THON family member on Saturday.Penn State tight end Khalil Dinkins has been a standout during winter workouts so far. Penn State running back Tank Smith drew up a play on the back of a football that was executed to perfection. Penn State players Jace Tutty (left) and Jackson Pryts (right) oversee a competitive game of football between THON kids.The “Insta Tunnel” is one of the more popular spots in the Lasch Building. Offensive linemen Vega Ioane (left) and Drew Shelton (right) pose with two of the day’s honored guests.Penn State defensive tackle Zane Durant watches a game of Call of Duty inside the Penn State player’s lounge.
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