May 7, 2012

COLLEGE PARK, Md. - A number of Maryland football players took part in Saturday's Best Buddies Friendship Walk and Games.

They were among more than 400 individuals, according to The Diamondback, who helped raise money for the nonprofit organization which promotes one-on-one friendships for people with intellectual disabilities.

Chapters from the University of Maryland, as well as state middle schools and high schools, raised more than $104,000, the school newspaper said.

The event was held at Ritchie Coliseum and included carnival games, arts and crafts, and interaction to promote social inclusion through friendship.

The contingent from the football team included C.J. Brown, Tyrek Cheeseboro, Kevin Dorsey, Ryan Doyle, Stephen Grommer, Demetrius Hartsfield, Evan Mulrooney, Nathan Renfro, Joe Vellano and Andrew Zeller.

Linebacker Alex Twine was not with this group at Ritchie Coliseum, but he did spend part of Sunday visiting Taylor Musser, a young Maryland fan who is battling brain cancer.

Musser was diagnosed last month and had a rare type of tumor removed.

"Alex brought him a football signed by the whole squad and coach [Randy] Edsall," said Katie Musser, Taylor's mother. "It really brightened his day and he was thrilled."

To learn more about Taylor's battle, click here.