New York Giants running back DJ Ware has never forgotten where he came from. On Thursday, Ware went back to his roots in a very giving mood.

That’s because Ware is hosting the first ever DJ Ware football camp in his hometown of Rockmart. The camp is for ages eight to 14-years-old.

“I’ve been wanting to do this,” Ware said. “But I had to get myself together first. It’s something the kids need, I’m excited to be here and to be able to do it.”

The camp got under way Thursday at Hilburn Field in Rockmart and is slated to be held again Friday and Saturday. The camp is from 6-8 p.m. each night, and not only features Ware – a former University of Georgia running back – but also several other former college players.

"It means a lot to come back to my hometown and do this," Ware said. "It is so special to me. I just want to give back. I want to show the kids that with a little work, they can do it like me.”

Joining Ware as coaches at the camp are former University of Georgia football players Ken Shackelford, Des Williams, Brandon Miller, Ken Veal, Jarvis Jackson, Tyson Browning, and Martrez Milner. Former University of Kentucky player Roger Williams, also a Rockmart High graduate, is helping at the camp. Other coaches include Rockmart High School head football coach Dan Duff as well as Darlington assistant football coach Joey Rice, Rockmart High School assistant football coach Levi Wigley, Arena League football player Quinton Kent, and Butch Kent.

Rockmart recreation director Jeff Hulsey said he was approached about doing the camp at Hilburn Field in Rockmart, the old Rockmart High School football field.

"Coach (Joey) Rice from Darlington called and asked me about it," Hulsey said. "I was all for it. I hope it can maybe become an annual thing."

Duff, meanwhile, was thrilled that Ware was willing to do this.

"I think it's very good that Danny will come back and give to the kids of Rockmart," Duff said. "They look up to him. So, I like this, it's a good thing. He's a good role model. He shows them that someone from here can make it in anything that they set their mind to."

The first night of the camp had 79 kids and all received a DJ Ware football camp T-shirt. However, more kids are encouraged to come over the next two days.

"It's free, all they have to do is show up," Ware said. "I invite all the kids to come participate."

For more information, contact Hulsey at 678-757-1001.