The Houston Texans are big and burly on the gridiron as they dish out fierce hits and mean mugs but get them around a group of kids and that tough exterior just melts away. With smiles spread wide across their face it was hard to tell who was having the better time at the first ever summer kickoff celebration of the Carnival Cruise Line and Houston Texans at the Boys & Girls Club of Houston.

Both known for majoring in family fun, the two joined forces to jump start fundraising for the many programs hosted by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Houston. They backed up their partnership with some serious dollars too. Houston Texans Jadeveon Clowney and Jonathan Joseph presented a donation of $10,000 on behalf of the official cruise line of the franchise, Carnival Cruise Line, to the President and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Houston, Kevin Hattery.

“We are very grateful for the support of Carnival Cruise Line and the Houston Texans. Carnival’s donation and the sale of Texans-themed Build – A – Bears will go a long way to support the many activities we offer the kids who participate in our after-school programs,” said Hattery.

After the business of the day was done, it was time to roll out the fun. As the DJ cranked up the popular dance tune Wobble by hip-hop artist V.I.C., the energy in the atmosphere was raised. It was contagious amongst the kids in attendance who excitedly made a beeline to the dance floor to do the synchronized shuffle to the familiar mix. Bodies were moving and kids were singing "Oh, oh, oh, oh, All the shawtys in the club...." Right smack dab in the middle of the crowd was a man that was not lost. Not just cause he was yelling, "Turn that up" but because he is 6’5 and 270-pound. Moving right in sync with the kids was Houston Texans Jadeveon Clowney. It was easy to tell that he was enjoying himself. The defensive end said he loves to give back to the community, especially at events like this.

Dancing was the not the only item on the fun filled itinerary. Carnival took their floating boatload of amusement from the sea to land so kids and their families could get a taste of what Carnival offers on the high seas. Bringing some of their most favored shipboard activities children were able to satisfied their sweet tooth with delicious goodies from Carnival’s confections store, Cherry on Top; take home a cuddle buddy from the Build-a-Bear Workshop, decorate their face with paint, and, of course, play at a gigantic inflatable football toss. One of the highlights of the event was the meet and greet with the Houston Texans and the cheerleaders. Kids really enjoyed speaking with their favs and taking lots of photos. Carnival gave kids the true experience of traveling abroad by giving each child a summer kickoff passport book that they got stamped at each station they visited. Kids and entertainment just go hand-in-hand with Carnival as they boast carrying the most kids of all cruise lines. This year alone they expect to host a record 800,000 children.

Two kids getting in on the action of the day were Joseph’s son and daughter. “My son enjoyed the gridiron activities while my daughter was engaged in the process at the Build-A-Bear Workshop. Oh, and let’s not forget they both love candy,” said the Texans DB Joseph. “It’s always fun to participate in events where my kids can be involved. Carnival has done an excellent job bringing to life the activities their guest can experience on the ship.” Joseph joined in on the fun of the day displaying his off the field talent by getting on the turntables to play a couple of his favorite hits.

“To bring some fun and put smiles on the faces of some special kids at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston was great. I am glad we were able to team up with two of our favorite partners (Houston Texans and Build–A–Bear) and make our first-ever summer kickoff a success,” said Christin Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. She also added, “Many thanks to Jadeveon Clowney and Jonathan Joseph for helping create some wonderful memories for these kids and their families.” Everyone who had a hand in planning this event shared her sentiments.

Before departing Clowney had this advice for the kids wanting to follow in his footsteps. “No matter what you want to be in life. Dream Big and go after everything you want in life,” he said with a smile. That is some great advice from a great athlete.

Learn more about Carnival Cruise Line by visiting Carnival.com. For reservations, contact any travel agent or call 1-800-CARNIVAL. Carnival can also be found on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.