The visit, just days before the Browns faced the Minnesota Vikings in London, saw the school transformed for “Browns Spirit Day.” Children packed the hall for a special assembly before taking part in football-inspired activities outdoors with former Browns stars Gary Barnidge and the team’s mascot Chomps.

The highlight of the day saw one Thrapston pupil, Ruby Lera surprised with the announcement that they had been chosen as this year’s UK “Kick Off Kid.” Recognised for their outstanding school attendance, the pupil will have the once-in-a-lifetime honour of running onto the pitch to kick off the Browns’ London game.

Speaking of the surprise, they said: “This really is a once in a lifetime opportunity!”

Principal Pauline Turner said: “We are so grateful to the Browns’ team for visiting us today, and it has been such a joy to see the excitement on our pupils’ faces. The Browns’ message about attendance really struck a chord, reminding us of the importance of supporting our children to make the most of their talents throughout their lives. The ‘Kick Off Kid’ surprise was a magical moment we’ll never forget.”

PE Lead and Year 5 teacher Kevin Smith, a lifelong NFL fan, added: “Having a Browns legend here in Thrapston was incredible. The pupils loved trying out the football drills”.

“We were thrilled to visit Thrapston Primary School and bring the Stay in the Game! initiative to London to emphasize the importance of school attendance – whether you’re in Cleveland or Northamptonshire,” said Cleveland Browns Vice President of Community Impact and Foundation Renee Harvey. “Hosting a ‘Browns Spirit Day’ ahead of our game in London was a special, first-of-its-kind event for us to help leave a lasting impact in London beyond our visit. We’re thankful to the teachers, staff and students at Thrapston Primary School for opening our doors to us and being committed to Stay in the Game!”

As well as inspiring pupils, the event reinforced the importance of good attendance in achieving success; a message at the heart of both the Browns’ initiative and Thrapston Primary’s own values.

For further information on Thrapston Primary School, please visit: https://www.thrapston-primary.northants.sch.uk/