Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp has emerged as an integral piece of this team’s efforts to get back to a Super Bowl. Of course, it is his impact both on and off the field that have made him an foundational part of this organization.
With the world still in the early stages of dealing with the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Kupp donated $15,000 worth of Nike gear to 23 students and families. The event was part of a partnership the Rams had established with the Inglewood Unified School District (IUSD) since the team returned to Los Angeles in 2016.
The items were to be used as rewards for IUSD students to maintain strong attendance and participation throughout the school year. It appears the idea was seemingly too good not to keep going.
Kupp decided to provide another $15,000 worth of Nike merchandise for the second straight year, via the team’s official website:
“Anna and I are really excited to partner with Inglewood Unified again this year to provide Nike apparel to the kids in LA that are setting the standard for what high character and intrinsic motivation looks like,” said Cooper Kupp. “Getting an education while also respecting, loving, and positively challenging your peers are qualities that this world desperately needs.”
IUSD County Administrator Dr. Erika Torres is confident the donations will continue to pay major dividends for the students:
“This donation will help encourage and motivate our phenomenal students to continue to participate and engage in virtual distance learning,” said Torres. “Through these challenging times, Cooper Kupp and the Rams have been incredible partners and continued to support our Inglewood Unified School District students and families. We are so grateful for Cooper Kupp’s generous donation.”
The pandemic left many of the less fortunate communities without the resources necessary for students to maintain their educational development. Although vaccinations have allowed some return to normalcy, it seems Kupp may be looking to start an offseason tradition for the IUSD students.
The Rams have been pegged as serious Super Bowl contenders with the arrival of quarterback Matthew Stafford this offseason. Kupp will be tasked with helping to ease the transition by serving as a go-to option for Stafford in the passing game.
Fortunately, head coach Sean McVay’s track record with notable additions to the offense gives good reason to be optimistic. It is safe to say that Kupp will be among the major benefactors of the change under center.
