Graham Roberts has a strong passion for football.

On Monday morning, the Trinity Episcopal school head football coach shared his enthusiasm with area youth as he hosted the first ever Champions Youth Football Camp Monday morning at the school.

“I love the game of football, and I love it for more than just the wins and losses. I love that it reveals character development in kids,” Roberts said. “The kids, they’re all sweating, but they’re having fun, and that’s what it’s all about to me.”

Campers went through a number of position drills while also sharpening their skills and mental preparation.

Roberts said the camp, which is for youngsters entering grades first through sixth, is an opportunity to promote the game of football in a healthy manner. He said football is currently “under attack” because of its perceived violence, and he wants the local youth to enjoy the game as he did as a kid.

“There’s a lot of people that aren’t fans of the game anymore,” Roberts said. “There are people that say it’s too violent, and I severely disagree with that. This is an opportunity to make it fun for these kids so they can learn the game properly and be safe.”

The camp is scheduled to last through Friday with a flag football game culminating the week.

Roberts said those wishing to get involved can still do so. The camp starts at 9 a.m. and lasts until noon each day. For more information, email Roberts for more information at robertsgm@trinitysaints.org.

“We want people to feel free to come out, and we will reduce the rate a little bit,” Roberts said. “We are going to make it fun and safe. We will make sure that the kids are hydrated, so bring them out.”