Former University of Alabama football player D.J. Fluker made a surprise visit last week at Russellville’s basketball camp. He is pictured with Park and Rec director Chad Sears and Russellville resident Amber Elliott. | Photo by Kellie Singleton.

By Matt Fuller

For the FCT

The Russellville Parks and Recreation Department hosted their fifth annual youth basketball camp July 15-17 and a surprise guest speaker might have been the highlight of the week for the kids who attended.

Former University of Alabama football player D.J. Fluker was in town and made time to come by the basketball camp to speak to the athletes on July 15.

Fluker was a former All-American and member of the 2013 National Championship team with the Crimson Tide. The offensive lineman was drafted in the first round of the 2013 NFL draft by the San Diego Chargers.

Parks and Recreation director Chad Sears said the visit was a bit short notice but it was a great experience for the kids.

“It was something that wasn’t really planned. It was kind of a short notice thing, but he came in and spent some time talking with the kids,” Sears said.

“I think it was great for the kids to be able to hear him share some advice.”

Fluker said he enjoyed being able to speak to the campers.

“It was a lot of fun talking to the kids,” he said.

“They seem like a good group, and I was glad that I got the chance to speak to them.”

Sears said in addition to the surprise visit by Fluker, the overall camp itself was another success.

“The turnout was great,” Sears said.

“We had probably about 75 kids show up and it is a good way for these athletes to brush up on their skills and get a little bit better before next season.”

The youth basketball camp was hosted at the Russellville Middle School and High School gyms this year in part due to the growing popularity according to Sears.

“I can’t believe this was the fifth year I’ve been a part of this,” Sears said. “Those five years have flown by.

“I enjoy being a part of it and putting these camps on. It is a great chance for them to focus on their fundamentals—shooting and ball handling—and just get better at the basics. Then hopefully they can go on to be better ball players.”