Youth Football
Through our grant programs and partnerships, hundreds of thousands of youth have been given the opportunity to learn the game of football, get physically fit, and stay involved in productive after-school activities with adult mentors. The programs supported by the NFL Foundation also have provided youth football participants with safe and accessible places to play, as well as programs and initiatives that address the importance of proper coaching, health, safety and wellness, academic and life skills development & character education programs.
GIRLS FLAG
In 2022, the NFL put significant resources toward growing girls participation in flag football. Seven states now have girls flag sanctioned as a high school varsity sport. Additionally, 31 NFL clubs hosted a girls flag jamboree event and/or piloted a girls flag league in their markets.
YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL BY THE NUMBERS:
1.5 MILLION PARTICIPANTS AGED 6-12 IN THE U.S.
MORE THAN 38% INCREASE IN TOTAL YOUTH PLAYING SINCE 2015
20 STATES IN PILOT PROGRAMS
USA FOOTBALL FIRST DOWN
First Down is a fun and free introduction to football for kids and their parents. Young athletes get active and learn the basics like running, jumping, passing and catching. Clinics are hosted by NFL players and USA Football provides the programming that is based on the Football Development Model. Over 90 First Down Clinics were hosted in 2022.
NFL FOUNDATION CAMP GRANT
Each year, the NFL Foundation supports current and former NFL players and coaches who organize and host free, non-contact youth football camps during the summer. The program recognizes NFL players and coaches who give back to communities in their hometowns or club markets and offer young athletes the opportunity to play in a healthy and fun environment. As part of summer camp season festivities, current players, NFL Legends and coaches hosted free, non-contact youth football camps for children across the country. Camps were open to boys and girls ages 5-18.
NFL FOUNDATION GRANTS
NFL club foundations also receive grants from the NFL Foundation to help provide NFL PLAY 60 programs in their communities, as well as programs and events that support athletic trainers, field refurbishments, and various other youth football needs.