The Houston Texans kicked off the NFL PLAY 60 Challenge at Lanier Middle School Tuesday with the help of linebacker Jadeveon Clowney and safety DJ Swearinger, Texans Cheerleaders, and in partnership with the American Heart Association. PLAY 60 is the National Football League’s campaign to encourage kids to be active for 60 minutes a day.

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After a pep rally for the students, the Texans players and cheerleaders played health games and led activities to put a buzz in the students’ ears about being active each day. The students enthusiastically cheered as Swearinger faced off against Clowney in a hula hoop contest and a “Texas Feud” game show.

The cheerleaders encouraged the kids to eat healthy and exercise at least 60 minutes a day. The program emphasized how staying active helps the students in every area of their life.

“We want our kids to be healthy and active, that includes eating the right foods, taking care of themselves with great nutrition,” said Shelly Millwee, American Heart Association, “but also getting outside and getting their heart pumping, and getting their exercise daily.”

To ensure that schools have the right tools to integrate healthy activity into the school day, the Houston Texans are also awarding PLAY 60 grants to Houston-area schools. These grants are designed to supply schools with equipment for the playground or gym that will help facilitate P.E. or afterschool programs, field or gym additions, or another project that will help get kids moving.

The PLAY 60 grant opportunity is open to schools located in the Greater Houston area. Schools can apply now to receive a PLAY 60 grant from the Houston Texans. All applications must be submitted by Oct. 15. For information go to http://www.houstontexans.com/community/play60grants.html.