Chucky Mullins tribute features youth camp, special needs Pro Bowl event

RUSSELLVILLE Russellville High’s football field and the Russellville Middle School’s gymnasium buzzed with energy Saturday as two events carried forward the legacy of Chucky Mullins — a youth football camp and a Pro Bowl for individuals with special needs.

Mullins, a Russellville native and former Ole Miss football player, became a symbol of courage and resilience after a 1989 on-field injury left him paralyzed. He inspired thousands with his determination and positive spirit before his death in 1991 at age 21.

Shown, back row, are Whitney Clement, Lauren Hellums, Carly Hellums, A.J. McCarron, Damion Square, Tim Townley, Whitni Hollimon, Jerry Groce, Don Jones, Chris Boatwright and Skye Hamilton.

Hosted by the RHS Class of 1988 Chucky Mullins Scholarship Committee, the day honored Mullins’ perseverance and impact while providing fun and inspiration for participants of all abilities.

The football camp featured former NFL players A.J. McCarron, Damion Square and Don Jones as instructors, while the Pro Bowl offered inclusive activities for individuals with disabilities, as well as visits from former NFL players.

Don Jones and Cash McCarron.

“It’s such a beautiful and unbelievable story about Chucky,” McCarron said. “It speaks volumes about the type of person he was and the impact that he had on so many people when he comes from a background where he easily could have given up and folded and thrown in the cards.”

McCarron said the event was a meaningful experience for everyone involved.

“I think it would be a beautiful moment to have more kids out here and be a part of this and to understand and learn Chucky Mullins’ story and the tradition he holds here at Russellville High School and around the game of football,” he said. “It’s awesome for the kids to come out and get out of the house and come work for 2 to 3 hours, and it’s an honor to be a part of it.”

Square said he recognized the importance of the event for youth in small communities.

CONTRIBUTED/SKYE HAMILTON
L..J Culwell, A.J. McCarron and Jared Culwell

“If people didn’t put together things like this, I wouldn’t have had youth sports,” Square said. “It takes adults and responsible people to put together events like this for a cause and keep it going.”

He also shared a message of thanks.

“I extend my deepest gratitude to all the athletes, families, coaches, volunteers and supporters who participated in this event,” he said. “The kids’ enthusiasm, dedication and spirit made this an unforgettable celebration of inclusion.”

Chris Boatwright, a member of the committee, said the camp is about far more than football.

“To see kids from different schools and communities come together and break down the group with ‘family’ is pretty special because we all come together for one purpose,” he said. “It is not about being the best athlete there, but working together and having a ‘never quit’ attitude.”

Boatwright said the Pro Bowl portion of the day stands out.

“These kids might have a disability or a special need, and that doesn’t stop them from any activity we have for them,” he said. “The players find themselves dancing, running and competing with the kids the whole time they are there.”

Jerry Groce, director of Easter Seals of Northwest Alabama, said his organization was honored to be part of the Pro Bowl. Groce served as Mullins’ foster care worker and knew him well.

“Even before he had the accident and got hurt, he was committed to being successful,” Groce said. “I never remember him complaining about anything. He was always optimistic and easy to work with.”

Groce shared a specific memory.

“One thing I do remember about Chucky is how excited he was when we started putting his clothes and material together to go to college,” he said. “Even today, when I drive by the mall, I think about him.”

Groce said events like the Pro Bowl give children with disabilities a rare opportunity.

“They are able to participate in things that kids without disabilities get to experience,” he said. “I think it’s a highlight for the parents, too, to see their kids being able to play and do things like other kids.”

Jared Culwell, whose 19-year-old son L.J. participated in the Pro Bowl, agreed.

“A lot of these kids don’t have the opportunities other kids do,” Culwell said. “It gives them a chance to be on a team, be part of something.”

Skye Hamilton introduced the Pro Bowl component to the committee.

“When I introduced the Pro Bowl for Special Needs to the committee a few years ago and the idea of building a team to help me, I never knew how impactful it would become,” Hamilton said. “We along with the CMS committee are forever grateful for Jerry Groce and Easter Seals for continuously supporting us.”

Hamilton said this was likely the final football camp as the group transitions to hosting a golf event next year, though there were many calls to continue.

“We gave out our yearly GRIT balls, and I absolutely love it when the children that come back each year help me to remind the new kids why we’re at the camp,” she said. “We talk about Chucky and how his determination, resilience and grit are part of his legacy.”

Committee member Roselle Christian said it’s all about continuing what Mullins stood for.

“Even if the football camp is over, we want to keep honoring Chucky and everything he meant to us and our children,” Christian said. “He never gave up. That spirit is what we’re trying to carry forward.”