On Friday, April 28, Will Abbamont ’17 and Tony Carbino ’19 were given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend the 2017 NFL draft as student reporters.  

Abbamont and Carbino were invited to the draft through the NFL’s Youth Strategy Coordination program, an initiative that allowed about 20 other student reporters from Philadelphia area schools to witness the 82nd annual NFL draft.

As part of the program, Abbamont and Carbino were given a private tour of the NFL media pavilion, the NFL draft red carpet, and the draft pick stage. During the tour, the two reporters were lucky enough to meet NFL legends Thurman Thomas, Anthony Muñoz, Robert Mathis, Tony Boselli, John Randle, Mike Alstott, and Joe Klecko. In addition, Abbamont and Carbino had the opportunity to interview Klecko, a member of the infamous “New York Sack Exchange” front four.

“It was really cool to meet and interview NFL legend Joe Klecko,” says Carbino. “As an avid New York Giants fan in Philadelphia, it was neat to see some New York players represented at the draft. Thanks to Mr. Goulet and the NFL Youth program, I was given a once-in-a-lifetime experience!”  

After the tour and interview experience, Abbamont and Carbino were allowed to watch the draft picks and visit the many sponsor booths that dotted the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

For these HGP students, that sunny Friday in late April will never be forgotten.