It was an exciting day for student-athletes in Newark after four New York Giants players made a surprise visit to Central High School and Weequahic High School.

“We’re the New York Giants but most of us live in New Jersey and we do a lot of our work here so you know, it’s really huge to come out in the community that we live in and see these kids,” says New York Giants Offensive Linesman Adam Bisnowaty. “They’re taking something from us and I know we’re taking something from them.”

The idea came about after players say the NY Giants co-owner, John Mara, did not want them kneeling during the national anthem. Instead, Mara encouraged players to visit communities, give back during their downtime.

“It basically wasn’t just us coming here to hear perspectives from the police officer as well as the mayor,” says New York Giants Defensive Tackle, Damon Harrison. “It’s refreshing hearing officer’s thoughts on deescalating a bad situation or situation that can become violent.”

The team chose Newark after hearing about their new community policing initiative. They took a bus tour of the city and made a stop at the Newark Police Division Headquarters on Clinton Avenue.

During the visit, players presented both schools with a $10,000 athletic equipment grant in hopes of inspiring more students to play sports and stay in school.