CORDELE, Ga. (WALB) - Las Vegas Raiders linebacker Quay Walker returned to his hometown Saturday to host a community fun day, drawing large crowds to the Watermelon Capital.

The Crisp County alum turned Georgia Bulldog organized the event to give back to the community where he grew up.

“This is something I always just wanted to do, even when I was little,” Walker said. “I always dreamed of being in this position that I’m in today and just to give back to my community.”

Walker said the area did not often have events hosted by professional athletes at his level when he was growing up.

The event featured basketball, horseback riding, bounce houses and food. Walker said he plans to make it a yearly event.

Walker added he wanted to provide a positive outlet for young people in the area.

“Anytime we can do anything positive for the community, I just feel like it’s so important, especially just to give back to the kids and not only the kids, but people who helped me along the way,” he said.

From basketball to football

Walker’s path to professional football began when former Crisp County coach Shelton Felton saw him dunk and asked him to join the football team.

“Football was my first love, but I fell out of love with it because I was better at basketball at the time,” Walker said.

After one game playing offense, Walker said his body language showed he was ready to quit. Felton convinced him to stay and switch positions.

“Next thing you know, man, while the next spring, I had numerous offers and everything,” Walker said.

Walker went on to play at the University of Georgia before entering the NFL. He is now entering his second NFL contract with the Raiders.

Advice for Southwest Georgia youth

Walker said athletes from Southwest Georgia have to stand out more because the area does not get noticed as much as other regions.

“You just keep your faith in God and you just continue to do what you got to do,” he said. “Keep your head down and stay grounded. You can do anything you want to do.”

Walker said his aggressive playing style fits well with the Raiders organization.

“I’m an aggressive player,” he said. “Old school football, is all I say. Because I think now we’re getting away from old school football. But me, I think I’m sticking with it.”

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