On June 15, various members of the Los Angeles Rams franchise built a playground for Woodworth elementary school in Inglewood. The efforts are a component of the franchise’s annual community improvement project.
Along with the new playground, the organization painted two murals on the school. Several members of the rookie class where in attendance, including quarterback Jared Goff, tight end Temarrick Hemingway, and wide receiver Paul McRoberts.
“We’re so happy to be out here in Inglewood today, giving back to the children and giving back to the school,” McRoberts said.
Pacific Play Systems designed the playground and Playcraft Systems provided the equipment. Woodworth had to undergo an application process in order to get the playground, according to Zach Kinkeade, Community Outreach and Player Involvement Coordinator for the Rams.
“We blast it via email, social media, our website,” Kinkeade said. “Out of all our applications, we go and rate them from location, how much need.”
This was the franchise’s eighth annual community improvement project. In the past, the Rams refurbished a football field for a Boys and Girls Club in the Greater St. Louis area and built a playground for children who suffered from neglect and child abuse.
“It’s a good, heart-warming thing for us to do,” said safety Brian Randolph. “We’re used to working hard, we’re used to working for each other, for other people. A situation like this, we’re used to giving back to others and having each other’s back.”
For Kevin Demoff, the chief operating officer of the franchise, preparing for and working on the project showed the excitement among the community for the Rams to return to Los Angeles.
“We wanted to get involved and get a chance for our players, our staff, our coaches, our personnel group to come contribute to the community and help make this school a better place for kids,” Demoff said. ”The Los Angeles Rams is going to be about more than just playing football, we’re going to be involved in the community as well.”
Running back Aaron Green hopes the project makes the children of Woodworth elementary feel loved and supported.
“Playing sports, professional sports or any level, you’re on a pedestal because everybody likes sports, especially kids.” Green said. “Coming out here and [being] able to do this very awesome.”
