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Bucs’ Devin White also wants to be a force in the community

Inspired by some of his teammates’ community efforts, rookie linebacker is planning to be involved off the field.
 
Bucs rookie linebacker Devin White bowls with kids from Tampa Boys and Girls clubs on Tuesday at Pin Chasers Midtown.
Bucs rookie linebacker Devin White bowls with kids from Tampa Boys and Girls clubs on Tuesday at Pin Chasers Midtown. [ EDUARDO A. ENCINA | Tampa Bay Times ]
Published Dec. 18, 2019

TAMPA — Much like the way veterans have mentored rookie Devin White on the field, the Bucs linebacker has learned from older players the value of being involved in the community.

He saw Lavonte David’s involvement with Big Brothers, Big Sisters first hand by attending attended his charity bowling event last month. He knows the impact teammates Mike Evans and Jameis Winston are making with their foundations.

And soon enough, the 21-year-old White wants to follow in those footsteps.

“I’ve learned a lot from them, starting with L.D.” White said. “He does a lot of things to give back, Mike (Evans), Jameis (Winston). Mike is up for the (Walter Payton) Man of the Year award, and that’s a pretty big nomination.

"I see how much he’s put into the community and he knows how much of a blessing it is. One day I want to be there. I want to be the top of the top. I don’t want any recognition from it. I just want to do it because I’m able to do it.

“When I was young,” White said, "I wish people came to my town and did those things as well.”

It began Tuesday, when White went bowling with about 50 local children from Boys & Girls clubs in Tampa Heights and Brandon for a “Strikes for Kids” event at Pin Chasers Midtown.

"I plan on being in Tampa for a long time, so I need to get my face familiar outside of football, just being in the community and helping out a lot, just making an impact on this great city," White said. "I think this is like step one for me. A couple of my teammates had events and I showed support as well. As the years go on, I'm going to have my own things going on and it's going to get bigger and bigger."

The Bucs rookies participate in community events throughout the season as a group. This was the first time White had his own event.

Related: Bucs in the Community: Mike Evans determined to make lasting off-field impact

White has often described himself as a big kid. And with his big smile and playful personality, it wasn’t long before the kids immediately gravitated toward White. After some bowling, he surprised them with holiday gifts.

“It puts a smile on their face to see someone who plays professional football,” White said. “I know I didn’t get to see anybody in the league when I was their age. Just give a gift and have fun. It’s a great day.”

Contact Eduardo A. Encina at eencina@tampabay.com. Contact @EddieInTheYard.