Jessie Bates III checks in from Orlando

ORLANDO, Fla. — Participating in my first Pro Bowl Games has made me feel like a little kid again.

I get to be around family and enjoy all the theme parks that Orlando has to offer. Going on all the rides at Universal Studios Florida brought out that little-kid feeling.

Though, having my family around, that’s really been the best part of the whole experience. I’ve brought my whole family. Everybody: my sisters, my brothers, nieces, nephews, my son, my mom and stepdad. There’s probably more than 20 people here with me.

We spend so much time away from our families throughout the year. So, while a Pro Bowl selection is a reward for your play, it’s also almost like your family is being rewarded, too, for all the sacrifices they make through the season.