AUBURN, Ala. – Greeted by cheerleaders on one side and Auburn University Marching Band members on the other, 1,200 elementary students entered Auburn Arena Friday morning amid fanfare usually reserved for game day.
Guests of the Hudson Family Foundation, students from Auburn City Schools, Opelika City Schools and Lee County Schools were inducted into the Legends Club, nominated by their teachers for their effort, respect, initiative, integrity, discipline and service.
"It was a blast," said Kim Hudson of the program's third year. "This is the first year we've been able to get all three school districts together. It's just as fun for Tim and myself as it is for the kiddos."
Former Auburn and Major League Baseball star Tim Hudson congratulated the students for setting an excellent example and positively influencing their classmates.
"You guys are the reason we're here," Tim told the students. "Be proud. It's a big deal. Keep doing the right thing."
A video featuring Bo Jackson, Pat Dye, Gabe Gross and Butch Thompson offered additional congratulations and encouragement.
Kim Hudson told the students, "You're heroes to us. When you have obstacles, don't let them define you. Keep being the amazing kids that you are."
Auburn's track and field program provided water bottles and snacks for the students to enjoy on their bus trip back to their schools.
Each member of the Legends Club received a certificate redeemable at Publix for a Thanksgiving food basket worth $100, enough to feed 10-12.
"I've always known that there's a food shortage here in Lee County so we wanted to create a program that would address the food shortage issue while at the same time empowering children and making them feel special and building them up," Kim Hudson said.
"Publix has been such a good supporter of our foundation since we moved back to Auburn with events and anything we ask them, they're always on board. They not only donate, money-wise, but their staff is so helpful from the top down. It's been a great partnership."
As the program concluded, Tim and Kim invited all of the students to shout, "Welcome to the club!" in unison.
"Now that you're a legend, you have a responsibility to live that out," Kim said. "You need to show that and be a good example.Keep on trying your best."
Jeff Shearer is a Senior Writer at AuburnTigers.com. Follow him on Twitter: @jeff_shearer