Metro Detroit Youth Day on Belle Isle: Sports, workshops, college previews and more

DETROIT (WJBK) - It was Metro Detroit Youth Day at Belle Isle on Wednesday and thousands of youngsters and volunteers flooded the island for a day of fun.

Organizers say they expected nearly 40,000 students, 1,600 volunteers and 360 community partners at the event on Belle Isle's athletic fields. 

The 36th annual event featured sports clinics, educational activities and workshops with students. The focus -- combating crime and bullying while at the same time placing an importance on health, wellness and the spirit of entrepreneurship.

Students had a chance to make crafts, and try their hand at boxing, martial arts, lacrosse, golf, bowling, track and field, football, basketball and more. 

The event even featured NFL alumni representatives who helped students with football drills and shared stories from their careers.

Looking toward the future, the even featured College Row, where students could meet with representatives to learn more about Michigan's colleges and universities.