The Vikings are teaming up with the St. Paul Police Activities League for a flag football tournament

In addition to playing soccer, youngsters at Tuesday’s event had the opportunity to get up close to a police car and an armored vehicle and even crawl into the latter to do a SKOL Clap with Phillips.

“I think we shouldn’t turn on the siren,” said one young Vikings fan, “but that would be pretty cool.”

Metellus emphasized the value of working with law enforcement at a recreational event.

“The children are the future. We want to make things as safe as possible and as supportive as possible,” Metellus said. “We want [law enforcement] can protect and also teach and lead [these youth] in the community. I think being out here in this atmosphere where everyone here wants to strengthen the community is not going to do anything other than that.”

Baumgart echoed Metellus’ thoughts, noting how important it is for young people to view athletes and law enforcement alike as “normal people” who want the best for them.

“Children look up to athletes, [and something like this] “It allows them to see their heroes in action,” Baumgart said. “And it’s the same for us – that’s why it’s so important for children to see us as real people.” Children can deal with bad situations at home or elsewhere and may see us in a different light. But when they see, “Oh, they want to play soccer with me.” Or, “They can take us on a field trip or to the Junior Police Academy.” “They love and care for us like anyone else” – that’s the important thing and amazing ones.”

“Sometimes children and families are afraid of the police or don’t trust the police, which we can understand – because many situations can be scary for them, or what they have seen on television or learned,” Baumgart continued. “But my motto is: If they can trust an officer, hopefully the next time they interact with them they can say, ‘Well, that officer was cool; maybe this officer can be cool too.’ Or, “I can trust them.”… That’s one thing that’s very inspiring about our job. All it takes is one officer and one situation [restore trust].”

Minnesota’s 4-0 start this season has demonstrated the team’s commitment to success on the field. But as Metellus pointed out, that doesn’t deter the desire to make a positive impact on the Twin Cities community.

“I’m out here to impact lives and show kids that at the end of the day we’re just regular people playing football,” he said. “I’m here to inspire and I hope I do that. I just love being around the kids – they make me smile and I hope my energy is contagious to them too.”

“That’s what Vikings are all about,” Metellus added. “At the end of the day, it’s bigger than football. We have a lot of people who love football, but also love community and love building youth. That’s what this is about and I’m just happy to reinforce that and be out here on Tuesdays.”