Student athletes at Deady and Stevenson middle schools learned the value of hard work and lasting relationships thanks to a visit by Houston Texans defensive end JJ Watt, who handed out donations to the schools totaling more than $53,000 from the JJ Watt Foundation.

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Speaking to the student athletes gathered at each school, Watt stressed how important the choices students make today are for their future, and how surrounding themselves with friends that will motivate them makes all the difference. After, Watt took selfies with the students.

“One of his key messages was, ‘You are a reflection of the 4 to 5 people you surround yourself with. Make sure you are with people who make you a better person,'” said Stevenson Principal Ruth Ruiz.

The Justin J. Watt Foundation has a mission of providing after-school athletics opportunities for middle school students. Both schools used the ample donations granted by the foundation to provide equipment and uniforms for school sports teams.

“It was a great opportunity to hear positive words from JJ Watt and his foundation.” said Deady  Principal Richard Smith. “They’re going to remember this for a long time to come.”