​Damar Hamlin, the McKees Rocks native and NFL player, is set to host a weekend full of events on Saturday and Sunday in his hometown. The gatherings are designed to celebrate youth empowerment, athletic achievement, and active community involvement, reflecting Hamlin’s commitment to giving back to the place where his road to the NFL began. The festivities unfold over two days at Sto-Rox Junior/Senior High School, spotlighting both a youth football camp and an all-star football game that pairs Pittsburgh-area talent with players from the Buffalo region in an unprecedented matchup.
The action kicks off on Saturday with a youth football camp that invites approximately 300 young athletes from the Pittsburgh area. This session will take place on the football field at Sto-Rox Junior/Senior High School, beginning at 11 a.m. The camp is specifically designed for youth ages 5 to 14 and will be led by Hamlin himself, who will be on the field coaching, sharing football fundamentals, and offering mentorship and motivation to the participants. The goal of the camp is not only to teach the basics of football but also to inspire young athletes to pursue their passions, work hard, and carry themselves with confidence both on and off the field.
On Sunday, the focus shifts to competition and celebration of high school talent with a two-team all-star football game set to showcase senior players from the Pittsburgh and Buffalo regions. This game will resume at the same Sto-Rox site, with gates opening at 6 p.m. and kickoff scheduled for 7:30 p.m. General admission tickets can be purchased at the gate for $10, providing an accessible night of competitive football and regional pride. The all-star game will bring together 80 high school seniors—40 players from 27 different Pittsburgh-area high schools and 40 players from seven Buffalo-area high schools—who will come together for one final showcase before embarking on the next steps in their football journeys. They will compete in a high-energy, high-stakes match designed to highlight their talents, teamwork, and sportsmanship while delivering a memorable community experience.
Sponsored by Hamlin’s Chasing M’S Foundation, the weekend calendar is crafted to maximize engagement and impact beyond the field. The foundation’s involvement underscores a broader mission to support youth development, encourage healthy lifestyles, and strengthen community ties in McKees Rocks and the surrounding region. The weekend’s programming provides tangible opportunities for young people to learn from a professional athlete, gain exposure to college-level football players, and participate in a community-building event that celebrates achievement, mentorship, and the power of sports to unite people.
As the events unfold, attendees will have the chance to witness the depth of Hamlin’s ties to his hometown, a region that has shaped him from a young age and continues to benefit from his success. The collaboration between local schools, athletic programs, and the foundation demonstrates the enduring impact of giving back and investing in the next generation. Whether participating in the youth camp or cheering on the all-star teams, participants and spectators alike will experience a weekend that honors hard work, determination, and the support systems that help athletes realize their potential.
For those following local news, updates about the events will continue through WPXI News channels and social media platforms, with alerts and coverage designed to keep the community informed. The weekend represents more than a series of football activities; it stands as a testament to the importance of community collaboration, youth empowerment, and the inspiring journey from McKees Rocks to the NFL and back, enriching the hometown with opportunity, mentorship, and pride.