SAFFORD — Representatives from the Arizona Cardinals made a stop in the Gila Valley, to sign autographs and teach children the importance of staying active.
“We’re excited to be out in Safford. It’s a chance for us to get back in touch with fans again,” said Orlando Avila, director of Marketing and Broadcast Services for the Cardinals. “With this pandemic, we haven’t really been able to connect with everyone.
“In the past, we would do these caravans where we’d go out to a city, bring Cardinals cheerleaders, brings mascots, and have some activities for the kids. But in the past few years, we haven’t been able to do that. So to be out there, on Safford City Hall Lawn, is really exciting for us.”
Children had a chance to show their passing and field goal kicking skills, as well as run through an inflatable tackling dummy simulation. Plus they could get autographs and a photo with retired tackle Rick Cunningham, who played 12 years of professional football, including three seasons with the Cardinals and winning a Gray Cup with the Montreal Alouettes in 2002.
Also on hand for photos and autographs was the Cardinals’ mascot Big Red, and cheerleaders Kesha and Alexis.
“Everybody was really nice and so lovely,” said Cardinals cheerleader Kesha, “just very good vibes from everyone.”
The Cardinals 2022 season can be heard in its entirety on KATO AM 1230 when games begin later this year.
