Ravens players surprise Linton Springs Elementary students

SYKESVILLE, Md. - Tuesday morning students at Linton Springs Elementary School in Sykesville got a big surprise! Some of the Baltimore Ravens visited the school.

It was all about raising awareness on the importance of exercise and eating healthy.

Tuesday was the kickoff for the NFL Play 60 Challenge, and the players that participated were there to encourage the middle schoolers to be active for at least 60 minutes each day.

"A lot of kids look up to us, being in this position," said Torrey Smith of the Ravens. "Our job, you have to be fit, and you have to eat right. It starts at a young age, and it starts with the parents and it starts with us getting the word out."

Teachers at the event passed out tracking materials for students to record their physical activity. They said having the Ravens at the event is huge in building momentum for the initiative.

"It was amazing," said physical education teacher Donnie White. "Kids were crazy. The staff was so excited."

Smith's message to students was simple: getting exercise doesn't have to be hard work.

"Just have fun," he said. "Working out doesn't have to be a struggle or a challenge. Just go out and have fun. There's plenty of games you can go out and play to be fit."

The NFL Play 60 Challenge takes place during a four-week period.

Once participants reach a certain benchmark, they receive prizes like water bottles, foam footballs, basketball hoops and yoga mats.

One lucky student will also be invited to a Ravens-Steelers game on December 2nd.