Former Alcorn State University defensive back Warren Gatewood is not originally from the Miss-Lou, but that isn’t stopping him from helping out in the area.

Gatewood — a native of Maryland — will host a youth football camp Saturday at Natchez High School for ages 5 to 19. The camp will run from 9 to 11 a.m. for ages 5-13 and from 1 to 4 p.m. for ages 14-19.

“Pretty much everyone that I have talked to from this area said they started playing football in middle school,” Gatewood said. “Something about that didn’t translate because where I grew up, we all had been playing since the age of 5.”

Gatewood said bringing his camp to Natchez was an easy decision since he credits a great deal of his personal success to his time with the Braves.

“There is a ton of talent here,” he said. “I want to provide something and add to the programs they already have here.”

Gatewood left his own impression at Alcorn seeing action in 42 games between 2012-16. During his career, he recorded 117 tackles and eight interceptions. He also earned defensive player of the game honors in the Braves’ victory over Grambling State University in the 2015 SWAC Championship Game, recording three interceptions, including one he returned 25 yards for a touchdown.

Training young players, Gatewood said, is something he isn’t surprised he has found himself doing.

“I’ve always thought of myself as a coach,” he said. “I don’t want it to be just about running, jumping and catching. I want to challenge the kids while maintaining competition.”

Following his career with the Braves, Gatewood was signed as an undrafted free agent to the Green Bay Packers in July of 2016. He was released with injuries however, and he said he now wants to take this time to stay healthy.

“What better time to put this together,” Gatewood said. “It’s a chance to do something I always wanted to do.”

To register prior to the camp, visit warrenyfc.com or contact Gatewood at 443-621-0678. The cost is $30, and registration will also be open at 8 a.m. for the morning session and noon for the afternoon session the day of the camp.