LAKEVIEW, SC — It's never too early to leave an impression and impact your hometown. That's what former SC State linebacker Darius Leonard did on Friday.
The Lakeview native was in back in his hometown to put on his first annual Maniac Day. There was a little bit of everything for the kids. Games, flag football, free food and even some fireworks.
Darius was a second pick by the Colts and finished his career in Orangeburg as a two time MEAC Defensive Player of the year, All-American and the program's leaders tackler.
He loves the fact that he can be an example in his small hometown and be an inspiration to the kids you know his journey from SC State to the NFL. It was full circle moment for Darius.
"It means a lot especially because I started playing football out here so I wanted to start my first Maniac Day out here," Darius said.
He hopes his camp and future camps where kids can see and interact with him will have a lasting impact.
"Just giving back to these kids is just a great honor because I remember when I was younger and needed a role model and it's just great being a role model to these kids."