🏈📚 W.D. Williams Elementary third graders took their learning from the classroom to the football field during an unforgettable day at Bank of America Stadium.

Students participated in the Carolina Panthers’ 3rd & Goal Field Day, a celebration recognizing reading growth among third graders across North and South Carolina. More than 400 students came together for a day filled with learning, movement and plenty of Panther fun.

Throughout the event, students rotated through reading activities, crafts, football throws, obstacle courses and other activities designed to keep their minds and bodies moving. Current and legacy Panthers players, Sir Purr and TopCats cheerleaders, joined the excitement by playing alongside students, talking with them, and signing autographs.

For W.D. Williams student E.C., stepping onto the field was an experience he won’t forget.

“This is awesome! One day I’m gonna play football here,” he said.

The field day is part of the Carolina Panthers’ year-long 3rd & Goal program, which encourages students to strengthen their literacy skills while also focusing on their mental and physical well being.

For students, the event was a chance to celebrate how far they have come as readers while making memories in a place usually reserved for NFL Sundays.

Buncombe County Schools and W.D. Williams Elementary are thankful for this amazing partnership with the Carolina Panthers and for opportunities that inspire students to keep reading, growing, and reaching for their touchdowns - both in the classroom and beyond.