Lucky local kids learned some life lessons about leadership and good choices from three BC Lions players Tuesday — and got to goof around a little, too.

Wide receivers Manny Arceneaux and Shaq Johnson along with offensive tackle Antonio Johnson spoke to a group of kids and teachers from Penticton Christian School as part of the Lions Pride touring school program, sharing their stories of adversity growing up and the lessons they learned that got them to their place of success today.

"We speak about choices, teamwork, goal setting, and it's pretty much based around us being able to interact with the kids," said Arceneaux.

Shaq recalled how much it meant to hear from sports mentors during his childhood in a rougher neighbourhood in Brampton, Ont., and finds it meaningful to pay that forward.

"Myself, I'm actually in that position now, and I'm actually one of the guys coming back and talking," Shaq said. "I'm just soaking up every opportunity I get while I'm going and just trying to stay after it, and be a good role model for these kids."

Antonio hopes to give the next generation valuable skills for their futures.

"You're going to make bad decisions, but learn from them," he said. "Learn from them."

The three made short speeches, then played games that enforced the positive messages associated with the speeches. The kids were eager volunteers, jumping up to participate and cheering their classmates.

The students in attendance ranged in age, with the oldest being in Grade 12.

The Lions Pride program will visit 175 schools around B.C. before it concludes in early May.