Cv1.indd 7 2/18/09 10:39:38 AM Cv2.indd 7 2/18/09 10:39:59 AM contents issue 9 • spring 2009

inside slants features 2 Kickoff with Scott Hallenbeck 4 player Academies: 8 Chuck Kyle demands more 7 “I Played” Learn, Develop & Excel than just talent from Team USA By Stefen Lovelace Character, patriotism high on prospective 27 Meet a USA Football Staffer: player profile Nate Boudreaux 6 Youth & high school football By Dave McMahon 29 Meet a USA Football Board Member: Bob Gardner “feeding” each other By Stefen Lovelace 28 Texas prep coach attends 30 Football Facts, Stats & Figures Super Bowl XLIII as 32 What Football Taught Me USA Football & NFL guest Father Kevin Fimian, By Chris Shepard St. Timothy Parish, Chantilly, Va.

league enhancement

20 state Leadership Forums unite football leaders coaching By Steve Alic 12 usA Football Coaching Schools open 21 usA Football Regional Managers By Steve Alic 22 Mississippi league nets $14,000 in fundraiser 13 Quick-Hitter Grid By Nicole Lukosius Thoughts from USA Football Coaching Members 14 Takeaway-Giveaway with Tom & Larry 23 usA Football’s Certified CoachingE ducation Program By Tom Bass & Larry Canard Westfield HighS chool’s Tom By Steve Alic Verbanic (above), one of 15 “What If?”: In-Game Coaching Scenarios Virginia’s most successful prep 16 Liberty Mutual Responsible Sports Grants officiating head coaches, instructs 2008 By Rashad Mulla USA Football Player Academy 24 usA Football expands officiating training events campers (pg. 4) 17 Art of the Catch: Help a good receiver get better By Tim Polzer By Dave McMahon Photo by Shawn Hubbard 25 Meet a USA Football Member: Pete Dardis By Chris Shepard Front Cover health & Fitness Photos: State Forums by Matt Williams, 26 CertifiedO fficiatingE ducation Program making Coaching Schools by Scott LeVeque, 18 What football has taught my son: Melanie Duncan a difference in Tampa, Fla. Player Academies by Shawn Hubbard By Nicole Lukosius By Tim Polzer

01 Contents.indd 1 2/18/09 10:42:06 AM Kickoff

Dear Readers,

Remember when you played youth football? Maybe you were like me and rode your bike to practice with your helmet’s facemask usafootball.com hooked to the handlebars. The excitement you felt when reaching the field and seeing your friends and coaches filled your chest with stirring anticipation. Chairman Those same feelings fuel the game today – we see it Jack Kemp in you, our members in all 50 states and Washington, Executive Director Scott Hallenbeck D.C. – and USA Football’s non-profit office shares that passion. We’re in a three-point stance, ready to launch Usa football the most ambitious and exciting schedule in USA editorial staff Football’s seven-year history with more than 100 training events, the assembly of America’s first Managing Editor national team in football composed of our nation’s Steve Alic top high school-aged players, the awarding of up to Contributors: $1 million in equipment grants to football programs Tom Bass, Larry Canard, based on merit and need, and more. Nicole Lukosius, Stefen Lovelace, There’s never been a better time to be part of Rashad Mulla, Tim Polzer, the youth and high school football community. Chris Shepard Whether you’re a coach, game official or youth league commissioner, USA Football’s resources and initiatives To contact USA Football: help you excel in America’s favorite sport and foster positive football experiences for your (703) 918-0007 players. After all, teaching and sharing football’s character-building traits of teamwork, perseverance and leadership with them is why you give of yourself to power this game. In the next 30 pages you’ll review dueling points about unconventional offenses in youth football, find out how youth leagues and high school programs can benefit each other, read traction media staff insight on the art of catching a football, check out the latest on USA Football’s Junior National Publisher Team and the IFAF Junior World Championship, learn what the mother of a Texas Tech Rudy J. Klancnik starting linebacker says football taught her son, and more. Editorial Director And just as it’s been since we opened our doors in 2002, USA Football’s regional managers Tim Polzer and office staff is ready to serve you. Refer to your USA Football regional map on page 21 and Designer ask your regional manager how he can help you gain an edge or strengthen your league. In william Bridgeforth addition, you’re only a toll-free call (1-877-5-FOOTBALL) or a couple of mouse clicks away (usafootball.com) from our home office. Traction Media We hope to see you at a USA Football event in the months ahead to prepare you for the Editorial Offices 2009 season and help you teach the game and its inherent values to our next generation of 7115 Tartan Trl. leaders. They’ll remember it – and treasure it – forever. Garland, TX 75044 [email protected]

Sincerely, Editorial Department Phone (972) 896-8006 Custom Publishing We want to hear your thoughts about (972) 898-8585 USA Football Magazine . Write to us at USA Football Magazine is published by Traction Scott Hallenbeck [email protected] today. Media, LLC©. All rights reserved. Traction Media USA Football Executive Director does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts or art. No part of this magazine may be reprinted or otherwise duplicated without the written permission of the editor.

2 USA Football Magazine

02 Letter.indd 2 2/18/09 10:42:31 AM UA_3.indd 7 2/18/09 10:41:21 AM By chris shepard

ootball is a sport that continually fullback,” said Jacob Estes evolves. In that same spirit, USA of Annandale, Va., who Football’s 2009 event schedule took part in one of USA Fincludes 12 Player Academies to propel a Football’s two “pilot” young player’s skill development. player academies in 2008. USA Football Player Academies, “I also learned how to designed for youth players aged 9 to 14, carry the ball better when encompass three days of instruction running. covering the fundamentals of offense, “On defense, I defense and special teams. learned how to read the “I learned how to take a toss and a quarterback better and handoff from the quarterback when playing also how to open my hips when pursuing when I’m playing linebacker. This was a great camp!” an effective 10-to-1 player-to-clinician Players are split into three age ratio. Clinicians are recognizable and brackets – 9-10, 11-12 and 13-14 – accomplished high school and youth allowing for age-appropriate pace and coaches from a camp’s surrounding area. sophistication. The camps’ controlled With an on-field and classroom football and limited contact incorporates curriculum, Academy players also learn game-like situations. from keynote speakers lending insight “I’ve been coaching youth football and inspiration to excel as both athletes for four years now and this was by far and people. Age-appropriate classroom the best camp that I’ve experienced,” sessions focus on rules, Xs and Os, film said Matt Estes, Jacob’s father. “The study and more. things that Jacob learned put him In addition to an exciting football I learned how to read the quarterback at least a year ahead of other kids in experience, campers receive a jersey, shorts, better and also how to open my hips when his league. The coach-to-player ratio and a high-performance T-shirt from Under pursuing when I’m playing linebacker. This was excellent for his age group. He’ll Armour, USA Football’s official apparel definitely return to this camp this outfitter. was a great camp! summer.” To register today, visit usafootball.com – Jacob Estes, Annandale, Va. USA Football Player Academy and click “Player Academies” under the enrollment is capped at 200 for gold “Players” tab. photos: shawn hubbardphotos:

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04 Player Academies.indd 4 2/18/09 10:43:06 AM 2009 EVENTS To register, go to USA Football usafootball.com/academy Player Academy Schedule Venue Date Location Benedictine University June 8-11 Chicago, Ill. Poinciana High School June 15-18 Poinciana, Fla. Rockwall High School June 15-18 Dallas, Texas Walsh University June 22-25 Canton, Ohio Lincoln Way Central H.S. June 29-July 2 Chicago, Ill. Helix High School July 6-9 San Diego, Calif. Episcopal High School July 6-9 Alexandria, Va. Pinecrest South Pines H.S. July 13-16 Raleigh, N.C. Lassiter High School July 20-23 Atlanta, Ga. Christian High School July 20-23 Annapolis, Md. United Sports Training Center July 27-30 Philadelphia, Pa. Haines City Parks and Recreation July 27-30 Haines City, Fla.

Coaches Officials Other Event Schedules: Page 12 Page 24

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04 Player Academies.indd 5 2/18/09 10:43:24 AM Youth & high school football

“feeding” each other By Stefen Lovelace wo years ago, youth football Morgan said that the relationship is backgrounds,” Swenson said. “It has been a changed in South Lake Tahoe, Calif. already proving to be beneficial. South Lake’s real asset to us in several ways.” At that time, Chuck Leonard had freshmen team increased to 35 players this Little Pro Youth, serving 2,000 players, Tjust become president of South Tahoe Pop year after having just 15 a year ago. Working was established when Valley H.S. built a Warner, while Chris Morgan became head together with South Tahoe Pop Warner has new home stadium. The high school plays its football coach at South Tahoe High School. made his program more competitive. games on Fridays, allowing the youth league The two men decided to form a relationship In West Des Moines, Iowa, the Little Pro to use the field on Saturdays and Sundays; that would benefit both football programs. Youth Tackle Football League and West Des a situation that presented itself partly “We started working very closely with Moines Valley High School have worked due to the programs’ close relationship. the high school varsity coach and together since 2003, Along with strengthening one his staff,” said Leonard, a USA the year that the youth another, partnerships between Football coaching member. “We league was created. youth leagues and high schools take their offense and scale it Valley’s current junior promote a greater sense of down to something that’s similar class came up through community. for our kids so when they get to Little Pro Youth and “Cultivating a good the high school level, they are the varsity coaching relationship with high already familiar with the system.” staff has already seen a school programs is key in my Chuck Leonard chris morgan The relationship that Leonard difference. opinion,” said Little Pro Youth and Morgan have formed is becoming more “The dramatic difference is the fact that they Commissioner Dave Murillo, who has held common around the country. Many youth understand a little bit about the game and have his position since the league’s inception leagues work hand-in-hand with local high some experience blocking and tackling,” said and also serves as a USA Football event schools to form a cohesive “feeder system” Valley High School head coach Gary Swenson. organizer with Central Regional Manager relationship to prepare young players for the Swenson serves on Little Pro Youth’s board of Joe Owens. “I think it enhances the game of prep level. directors and is the offensive coordinator for football in all areas.” “We want the young guys to come to our USA Football’s 2009 Junior National Team. Join the 1.1 million visitors who logged on games and say ‘Look at [No.] 44,’” Morgan said. “There are some outstanding coaches to usafootball.com in 2008 for more coaching “‘I want to be like 44 when I get to high school.’” in these youth leagues with phenomenal and league commissioner insight.

6 USA Football Magazine

06 Feeder.indd 6 2/18/09 10:43:44 AM USA Football’s “I Played” campaign has reached more than 100 million Americans through television coverage on CBS, ESPN, FOX, NBC and NFL Network as well as Westwood One Radio’s national airwaves. Since “I Played” kicked off last August, thousands of usafootball.com visitors have read or submitted an “I Played” story. To share your football story or to read those of others, visit usafootball.com. Below are excerpts of recent “I Played” story submissions. How America’s favorite sport helps us reach our potential BY DANNY HOTOCHIN & MICHAEL COPPINGER

Scott Moss Alan Owens Frederick Privette Manufacturing Combat Photographer Chef (pictured left) Greenwood, Ind. Fort Meade, Md. Raleigh, N.C.

I’ve coached in the Greenwood My grandfather taught me about I started playing football when (Ind.) Bantam Football League for football and life. I played football I was 9 years old and I retired from three years now. It’s a great joy for me from the first grade through college. minor league football at 28. Football to teach football and the life skills that Once I joined the military, I played taught me how hard work can pay off the game holds. flag football on every post where I and a little extra work doesn’t hurt. I played football for a small school was stationed. In my senior year in high school, we in East Texas (Mt. Vernon H.S.). Our Football taught me teamwork. didn’t win a single football game and I coaches set the tone for our success I know that sounds cliché, but it’s wanted to quit so bad because I didn’t (Coaches Rotten, Randolph, Fowler, true. Teamwork is something that we want to be labeled a loser. I toughed it Parks and Stoker). These men have use everyday in the military. out and at the end of the season I won been my inspiration for coaching, as My fondest memories of playing our team’s “Coach’s Award” and had a they all had their own methods, but football would have to be going to chance to play college football. were all instrumental toward making the state championship two years in a Life threw me a curveball and I had our team successful. row in high school and walking on at to give up football, but like the saying I grew up with only my mom and the University of Arkansas. I learned goes, “If you love something, let it go and I was not exactly a model citizen as from every coach I had growing up. It if it was meant to be, it will come back.” I a child. I had repeated issues with wasn’t about winning and losing, but found a local semi-pro team was holding discipline and school work. making sure I had the skills to make tryouts and to make a long story short, Mom knew how much I loved it to the next level and in life. I made the team. It turned into nine football, so she spoke with Coach Now, I enjoy coaching my son winning seasons and a lot of fun. Stoker about me joining the team. and his friends. I started coaching I made a lot of friends, became Soon after, Coach Stoker became a three years ago with a local Pop a student of the game and now I father figure to me. This man helped Warner flag football team. For the volunteer my services to high school me turn my grades around and helped past two years, I’ve been coaching football players to help them become develop me into a more disciplined tackle football for the youth sports better football players and men. So in child. I still feel his influence today. program on Fort Meade. the end, I was a winner after all.

“My daughter is a big part of my football career and I like showing her, by example, that you can do anything you put your mind to.” – Jamie Azone, Business Owner & Independent Women’s Football League Player (Tennessee Valley Tigers), Huntsville, Ala. 7

07 I Played.indd 7 2/18/09 10:43:58 AM Chuck Kyle demands more than just talent from Team USA Character, patriotism high on prospective player profile

By Dave McMahon

hen USA Football’s Junior man’s life, he is going to play, don’t be afraid to tell him, National Team, comprised of be representing the United ‘Nice play.’ There’s no big deal this summer’s graduating high States of America and about that.” Wschool seniors, competes in the International playing with ‘U-S-A’ on The visiting teams will use Federation of American Football (IFAF) the front of his jersey. Our Team USA as a measuring stick Junior World Championship in Canton, fight song is the national of sorts to determine how far Ohio, ballyhooed players will gain the honor anthem. You’re thinking the sport has come in each of wearing the USA’s colors. of way more than yourself. country. In addition to being much-hyped, these That, added on with talent, “They’re going to be athletes will work with a “Who’s Who” of is what we’re looking for.” thinking, ‘We’re going to go high school coaches, led by 10-time state Competing against the chuck kyle, Head Coach against the United States of champion-winning USA Football Junior best players from Canada, USA Football Junior National Team America, and hopefully the National Team head coach Chuck Kyle of France, Germany, Japan, Mexico, New United States of America is going to show Cleveland St. Ignatius High School. Zealand and Sweden, USA Football’s Junior up with some very, very good talent, You’re a highly successful football player National Team will be a competitor, host because why come over here to play against in your hometown, you’re graduating this and ambassador. guys that really aren’t that good?’” spring and you have dreams of representing “Patriotism should be a motivation in On the other hand, football fans that your country in an eight-country field. Do this situation,” Kyle said. “When these have never seen the game played outside of you have what it takes to play for Team USA? teams get off the bus, we should be the the homeland may be in for a surprise. “As we start making our plans here, we’re guys greeting them. We should be the guys “There are some players in these other looking for talent that would fit into what shaking their hands and saying hello. We countries, talented kids,” Kyle said. “A kid we’re doing offensively and defensively,” want to show them that we’re the friendly could come over here and show a lot of Kyle said in January while meeting with the Americans. This is going to be a celebration colleges that he’s pretty good.” Team USA coaching staff at the American of the sport. At the same time, America’s finest high Football Coaches Association convention in “When we’re playing the game, we’re school seniors will do the same. Nashville, Tenn. “An important part of this going to hit and play it as hard as we can, Click “U.S. National Team” atop the thing is character – patriotism, to be very but we want it to be a friendly situation out usafootball.com homepage for more about Team honest with you. there. You extend your hand to help the guy USA and visit jwcfootball.com, the official online “For a very unique moment in this young up. And when the other kid makes a great home of the IFAF Junior World Championship.

IFAF Junior World Championship June 27 - July 5, Canton, Ohio

The International Federation of American Football canada france germany japan (IFAF) Junior World Championship kicks off on June 27 and concludes with its gold-medal game on July 5 in Canton, Ohio. USA Football’s Junior National Team will represent the United States in the eight-nation tournament. For tickets and travel packages, visit mexico new zealand sweden united states www.usafootball.com/jwc/tickets.

8 USA Football Magazine

08 JWC.indd 8 2/18/09 10:44:15 AM USA Football Junior National Team Coaches Gather Chuck Kyle in Music City Ed Croson

he USA Football Junior National Team coaching staff met for four days of meetings and discussed Team USA with more than 6,000 college football coaches during the American Football Coaches TAssociation (AFCA) annual national convention in Nashville from Jan. 11-14. USA Football built its 10-member coaching staff among the country’s top prep head coaches Steve Specht Jeremy Gold spanning nine states. Led by Cleveland St. Ignatius head coach Chuck Kyle, America’s first high school-aged national team in football will represent the United States in the 2009 International Federation of American Football (IFAF) Junior World Championship in Canton, Ohio’s Fawcett Stadium from June 27-July 5. Kyle and Team USA offensive coordinator Gary Swenson of West Des Moines (Iowa) Valley High School each led their programs to state championships this past season, the 10th and fifth of their decorated careers, respectively. Gary Swenson During the AFCA convention, Kyle presented his vision and goals for Frank Lenti Team USA at the following sessions: the AFCA High School Forum, the Big 10 Conference Head Coaches Meeting, the AFCA High School Coaches Clinic and the Football Bowl Subdivision Head Coaches Meeting. Throughout its four days of meetings, the USA Football staff discussed Team USA’s roster composition, preliminary player selection, playbook assembly and an itinerary for training camp to be held at Walsh University in North Canton, Ohio, starting in mid-June (see page 10). For more about Team USA, the IFAF Junior World Championship and tournament travel packages to Canton, Ohio, visit usafootball.com. Tom Bainter Chris Merritt COACH POSITION HIGH SCHOOL Chuck Kyle Head Coach Cleveland St. Ignatius Steve Specht Defensive Coordinator Cincinnati St. Xavier Gary Swenson Offensive Coordinator West Des Moines (Iowa) Valley Tom Bainter Running Backs Bothell (Wash.) Marcus Boyles Wide Receivers Wayne County (Miss.) Ed Croson Offensive Line West Hills (Calif.) Chaminade Jeremy Gold Defensive Line Ann Arbor (Mich.) Pioneer Marcus Boyles Frank Lenti Offensive Line Chicago Mount Carmel Allen Wilson Chris Merritt Defensive Backs Miami Christopher Columbus Allen Wilson Linebackers Dallas Carter

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08 JWC.indd 9 2/18/09 10:44:17 AM America’s Coaches on America’s Game Several USA Football Junior National Team assistant coaches recently shared their views about coaching and football with USA Football Magazine. With 155 successful seasons of head coaching experience between them, here’s a two-minute drill inside their thoughts:

What is the most overrated aspect of football? One thing that should never change about football is … “Measurables – height, weight and 40-time.” “Having a place for smart, tough, undersized players.” – Ed Croson, Team USA Offensive Line; West Hills (Calif.) Chaminade H.S. – Frank Lenti, Team USA Offensive Line; Chicago Mount Carmel H.S.

What is the best advice you’ve ever received? “Friday nights should always be reserved for high “Keep it simple.” school football.” – Jeremy Gold, Team USA Defensive Line; Ann Arbor (Mich.) Pioneer H.S. – Allen Wilson, Team USA Linebackers; Dallas Carter H.S.

“My college coach, Bill Mallory (Indiana What person influenced you the most? University), told me when I first became a head “Celia Gold, my mother.” coach, ‘All you need is a whistle and a watch; and don’t – Jeremy Gold, Team USA Defensive Line; Ann Arbor (Mich.) Pioneer H.S. go out there trying to please everybody.’” – Chris Merritt, Team USA Defensive Backs; Miami Christopher Columbus H.S. “My first coach – my father.” – Chris Merritt, Team USA Defensive Backs; Miami Christopher Columbus H.S. What is the hardest job in football? “Explaining to parents why their son is not What is the most underrated aspect of football? playing.” “Long snapping.” – Gary Swenson, Team USA Offensive Coordinator; West Des Moines (Iowa) Valley H.S. – Steve Specht, Team USA Defensive Coordinator; Cincinnati St. Xavier H.S.

For more on this historic coaching staff leading America’s first national football team of teen-aged players, visit usafootball.com.

Walsh University selected as “International Village” for IFAF Junior World Championship By Chris Shepard

Walsh University in North Canton, Ohio, will serve as the residence and practice site for the national teams hailing from eight countries competing in the 2009 International Federation of American Football (IFAF) Junior World Championship in Canton from June 27-July 5. “We are honored to welcome all attendees of the first IFAF Junior World Championship to Walsh University,” said Walsh University President Richard Jusseaume. “While we are excited to have the opportunity to show off our beautiful campus, the most significant result of this event will be the fostering of friendly relationships among the eight international teams. The entire Walsh community is proud to play a part in bringing this historic event to our area.” Just five miles north of Canton’s Pro Football Hall of Fame Field at Fawcett Stadium, the host site for all 12 IFAF Junior World Championship Games, Walsh University will serve as an “international village,” housing the tournament’s 360 players in five residence halls. “This summer’s tournament stands as one of the most significant international football events the game has ever seen,” said Bob Belden, IFAF Junior World Championship host committee chairman and president of the Canton-based Belden Brick Company. “In addition to the athletes’ and coaches’ friendships that will be forged here, they’ll also remember the first-rate facilities and hospitality that will be shown them at Walsh University.” Visit www.jwcfootball.com for ticket information and more about this summer’s historic IFAF Junior World Championship.

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08 JWC.indd 10 2/18/09 10:44:21 AM USA Football Shop is Gear Up for ’09 at open 24/7 at shop.usafootball.com. USA Football Shop

Coaches’ and commissioners’ virtual shopping carts have been Included in the four-item Head Coach’s Pack ($85) is a USA filling up with Coach’s Gift Packs at USA Football Shop Football men’s polo by Under Armour, the coaches handbook, an (shop.usafootball.com) since the packages’ November release. instructional USA Football DVD of your choice and a coaching “I bought a Coach’s Pack to get more information, I am always membership. An Assistant Coach’s Pack ($40) is comprised of a looking for insight in any area high-performance USA Football men’s t-shirt by Under Armour, an possible,” said Keith Wyman, instructional USA Football DVD of your choice head coach of Attleboro (Mass.) and a coaching membership. Pop Warner’s ‘A Team.’ “The whole “I think that the (coaches) handbook is process of USA Football is great, something that every head coach should have to being part of that helped me this help set up practices and such,” said Wyman. past season as a head coach.” “The handbook breaks it all down, it helps Since opening its doors in you immensely.” October, USA Football Shop “I run a league, and I had a lot of has already delivered goods to people who wanted to help, but needed customers’ doorsteps in 46 states. some encouragement or guidance,” said The shop is open 24 hours a day, Barry Gehab, President of the Perryton stocked with USA Football-branded (Texas) Activity Center Football League. “The Under Armour apparel, instructional DVDs featuring our own handbook and the rest of the coach’s pack made them feel more Larry Canard (see page 14), the USA Football Coaches Handbook, comfortable with the kids.” coaching memberships and more. Click inside shop.usafootball.com and see what’s in store for you.

Kurt Warner Arizona Cardinals QB

USA Football recently reached Arizona Cardinals QB Kurt Warner for recollections on his youth football coaches and what message he would have for youth coaches today:

“I remember the coaches that I had at an early age; they were volunteers and made a huge impact on my life, encouraging me to follow my dreams. I didn’t feel the pressure of having to perform, but they continually encouraged me. It is a tremendous opportunity to impact kids’ lives. Teach them in a positive way and encourage

them to accomplish great things.” n SMI o CHRIS KEANE / ic 11

11 Web Store.indd 11 2/18/09 10:44:35 AM 12 COACHING.indd 12 officiating league Health & fitness Coaching Coaching center Coaching the USA Football-run events feature expert coaches.” youth educating of way Denver, formalized it’s only the “Here in Galloway. Development Cindy of Community President Vice Broncos Denver said track,” right the off on cities. their in game youth the Coaching School partners to further advance USA Football are teams NFL dozen two than states from March through August. More 35 in clinics full-day 48 with history year non-profit’sseven- football the in schedule Schools. And 2009 offersthe strongest fun. as just nearly enjoy sport? America’s favorite a youngster 12 16May 9 May 9 May 9 May 9 May 9 May 2 May 2 May 25 April 25 April 18April 18April 18April 18April 18April 4 April 21March l 14March Date W By SteveAlic Coaching Schoolsin’09 More than10,000toattendall-timehigh48USAFootball In School’s

Designed exclusively for youth coaches, coaches, for youth exclusively Designed coaches start to vital are schools “These Coaching USA Football answer: The but it’s party, tailgate No, it’s not aweekly USA Football Magazine Greenville, S.C. (Carolina Panthers) (Carolina S.C. Greenville, Omaha) at Omaha, Nebraska of (Univ. Neb. Dame H.S.) (Notre Angeles Los H.S.) Arlington Columbus, Ohio (Upper England Patriots) (New Mass. Foxboro, H.S.) (Middletown Del. Middletown, Cloud H.S.) Orlando, Fla. (St. H.S.) Mich.(Pioneer Arbor, Ann Miami Dolphins) (Miami H.S.) Hampton, Va. (Bethel Des Moines, Iowa (Valley Southwoods Fr. H.S.) H.S.) Calif. Bay Sacramento, (Granite Ravens) (Baltimore Baltimore Falcons) Atlanta (Atlanta Indianapolis (Indianapolis Colts) Raleigh, Panthers) (Carolina N.C. Redskins) Va.Alexandria, (Washington Panthers) (Carolina N.C. Charlotte, ocation ocation 10,000 football coaches and helps helps and coaches football 10,000 provides lunch for more than ayear, times 48 happens hat USA FootballCoachingSchoolhedule Spielman (Columbus, Ohio; May 9). Ohio; (Columbus, Spielman Chris linebacker All-Star NFL four-time 18), April and (Atlanta; Smith Year Mike of the Coach NFL 2008 and coach head 18), Falcons April (Sacramento; Atlanta FredBiletnikoff coach receivers Raiders Oakland former and receiver of Fame Hall Football Pro includes roster keynote ’09 USA Football’s lunch. and speaker akeynote to treated are coaches sessions, schemes. more effective run and practices position’s fundamentals, plan efficient every how teach to instructing clinicians June 13 June 13 June 7 June 6 June 6 30 May 30 May 16May 16May 16May 16May Between chalk talks and on-field and talks chalk Between Oklahoma City, Okla. (Westmoore H.S.) Oklahoma (Westmoore Okla. City, Harrisburg, Valley Pa. (Cumberland H.S.) Packers) Bay Bay, (Green Wis. Green Florida) South of Tampa, Fla. (University Philadelphia, Pa. (Philadelphia Eagles) Rams) Louis (St. Louis St. Steelers) (Pittsburgh Pittsburgh Titans) Nashville (Tennessee Vikings) Minneapolis (Minnesota Bears) Chicago (Chicago Francisco 49ers) San Francisco (San *For themostup-to-date schedule,visitusafootball.com,rolltotheblue “Coaches”tab,andclick“CoachingSchools.” USA Football Co hing School aching s school online. online. school for a registering when at usafootball.com for $10 purchased may be at $20, priced regularly Handbook, Coaches Football TeeArmour (a value). The USA $24.99 Under USA Football a high-performance clinics.” one of these you’ve before, gotto get to football coached you’ve if never “Especially Spielman. said NFL,” the and State Ohio my dad, from for decades. area Ohio, Canton, the father, Sonny, coached high school football in and make it fun for them.” Spielman’s late play to way right the kids “We teach to need years. for four Ohio, Columbus, near football me,” said Spielman, who coached youth “Coaches” tab and click “Coaching Schools.” “Coaching click and tab “Coaches” blue the to Roll usafootball.com. at found is Aug. 1 TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD June TBD 25July 18July 18July 18July 18July 12July 11July June 27 June 27 June 27 June 20 June 20 Coaching school attendees also receive receive also attendees school Coaching I’ve what learned along pass to “I want to important is coaches with “Meeting USA Football Coaching School registration registration School Coaching Football USA Boise, Idaho (Optimist Youth Sports Complex) (N.Y. Jets) N.J. Park, Florham Jaguars) Jacksonville (Jacksonville Cleveland Browns) (Cleveland University) TexasWaco, (Baylor Anaheim, Calif. Chargers) Diego (San San Diego Cardinals) (Arizona Phoenix Alameda, Calif. Raiders) (Oakland H.S.) (Chaparral San Diego Chiefs) City (Kansas City Kansas Baptist University) (Houston Houston (N.Y. Giants) N.J. Rutherford, East Saints) Orleans (New Orleans New H.S.) Honolulu, Hawaii (McKinley Broncos) (Denver Denver University) N.Y. State Syracuse, (Cortland University) Ohio (Walsh Canton, Seahawks) (Seattle Seattle 2009 EVENTS at usafootball.com Schedule updates * 2/18/09 10:45:09 AM

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T S quick-hitter grid With members in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, USA Football recently caught up with four coaching members from coast to coast. Below are their straight-ahead thoughts on topics from football to dinner guests.

Coach: Dave Brumfield Tom Sappington Mark Petersen Archie Roberts Experience: 5 years 20 years 10 years 17 years Team: Mt. Lebanon Jets Jones Middle School Cloverdale Chargers Scorpions / Ages 12-14 Location: Pittsburgh, Pa. Upper Arlington, Ohio Cloverdale, Calif. Fredericksburg, Va.

Favorite football Tony Dungy Jim Tressel Tom Landry Dan Reeves coach – college or pros:

Best football Army-Navy Ohio State-Michigan Cal-Stanford Redskins-Cowboys rivalry:

Skill or value most Patience Patience Patience Patience needed to coach:

Best thing about The kids always The relationships When everything To give something back coaching: surprise me. They’re with the kids – I’ve clicks for players who and see the look on the able to handle a lot seen kids grow up and struggle and they just kids’ faces when they more than you think. go to college. light up. learn something.

How do you end your “Have fun!” “Let’s go out and have “Do your best” “Play like you practice” pre-game pep-talk? fun!”

Favorite athlete Emmitt Smith John Brockington Larry Csonka Roger Staubach & as a child: Tony Dorsett

Favorite vacation Disneyland Lauderdale by Red Woods of Orlando, Fla. spot: the Sea, Fla. California

Three people President Winston Churchill, Roger Craig, Earl Campbell, you’d like to have Obama, Jim Tressel, Jerry Rice, Bo Jackson, over for dinner: Joe Paterno, B.B. King Bill Walsh President Robin Williams Obama

USA Football offers resource-packed memberships to give coaches, officials and youth league commissioners an edge. Learn more at www.usafootball.com/register. 13

12 COACHING.indd 13 2/18/09 10:45:27 AM 12 COACHING.indd 14 officiating league Health & fitness Coaching Coaching center Coaching Football family and gain more from Tom from more gain &Larry. and family Football USA the join to screen your of right upper the in button “Membership” the click and today usafootball.com to Go Membership. Coaching Football’s in USA included benefits innovative the to contribute Both sport. favorite America’s way teach to one there’s than more in the sport. the in progress they as need will players well-rounded that techniques basic of teaching expense at come the but they’ll more wins, game. play to the continue to wanting from youngsters may discourage schemes play to unconventional needed develop. fully to players of youth majority doesn’t help the This on players. afew emphasis great with specialization blocking. double-team and development of drive- the neglecting and skills protection pass learning time of majority a devote lineman offensive a young of competition. level next at the need will they tools with players all schemes. all to common techniques and skills basic teaching require that schemes team special and defensive offensive, established proven and football. playing in progress they as succeed to tools them football enjoy the and learn to for youngsters groundwork By TomB for youthgame Conventional footballisbest 14 football? youth in offense Should you run a non-conventional

Tom Bass and Larry Canard combine for more than 50 seasons of coaching on the youth, college and NFL levels and illustrate that that illustrate and levels NFL and college youth, the on coaching of seasons 50 than more for combine Canard Larry Tom and Bass Employing unconventional schemes may bring a few afew may bring schemes unconventional Employing skills particular mastering in difficulty and time The much too carry schemes Unconventional me to have to much sense notIt make does provides coach the basics, on these focusing By conventional, be done employing by best can This laythe to opportunity unique the given Youth are coaches USA Football Magazine ass enjoyable way, but they must also give give enjoyable way, also must but they apositive, in players prepare to need only responsibility. important most their be may This players. their in game love of the a nurture and establish to opportunity experience. To create this atmosphere, coaches not coaches atmosphere, To this create have the stage at this Coaches Takeawa y-Giveawa y withTom&Larry that the schemes create. schemes the that options of the for all preparing time of practice deal agreat spend must offenses these face that defenses Finally, skills. fundamental forteaching offense excellent it an makes which out fakes, or a running back with great speed or power. speed great with back or arunning arm atremendous with aquarterback need You around. donot football the spread and skills players’ their maximize to opportunity an coaches provide single-wing historic of the revival the and formation “Wildcat” the advent The of in. you players put your positions what and staff your how you assemble including team, weaknesses. your and strengths your things: basic two By LarryCan New-age offenseisOK the game’s fundamentals. If players do not understand the the understand not do players If fundamentals. game’s the It is important that coaches always teach teach always coaches that It important is about your make you decision every almost to applies This understanding is coach football asuccessful of being A big part importance of a great stance and explosive start, executing executing start, explosive and stance of agreat importance to block. The backs must also understand how to carry carry howto understand also must backs The block. to blocks and maintaining possession with ball-security ball-security with possession maintaining and blocks techniques, then no offensive scheme or approach approach or scheme offensive no then techniques, will flourish. flourish. will ard skills to be involved in the offense. Smaller, Smaller, offense. the in involved be to skills In the single-wing, all players must learn learn must players all single-wing, the In These new schemes allow players of various various of players allow schemes new These quicker players can be put in situations that that situations put be in can players quicker encourage success by either spreading spreading by either success encourage creates easier passing chances. chances. passing easier creates the field or creating misdirection. misdirection. creating field or the If you have a player with strong strong you have aplayerIf with quarterback skills, but doesn’t skills, quarterback to defend the run and therefore therefore and run the defend to have a tremendous passing arm, arm, passing have atremendous the Wildcat pressures the defense defense the pressures Wildcat the 2/18/09 10:45:37 AM What If? USA Football Coaching Members share in-game decision-making By Rashad Mulla and Chris Shepard

Mark Aho David Easley Mike Schrader

City, State: City, State: City, State: Blaine, Minn. Arlington, Texas Berlin, Wis. Youth League: Youth League: Youth League: Twin Cities North North Texas Pop Mid-State Football and Suburban Youth Warner Football; Ft. Cheerleading Football League Worth Colts Coaching Coaching Coaching Experience: Experience: Experience: 8 years 25 years 7 years Base Offense: Power-I Base Offense: Wing-T Base Offense: Power-T Base Defense: 5-3 Base Defense: 4-4 Base Defense: 3-4 USA Football Membership: USA Football Membership: Coach USA Football Membership: Coach Coach & Commissioner

ootball coaches encounter situations the power in and move the pile. end run a drag. I would show the ability to that call for quick-thinking. Whether send everyone out and max-protect. Then I you run the Wishbone or split your Easley: Well, luckily we don’t get would pray to God that the other team has no receiversF four-wide, part of football’s allure in this situation very much, we haven’t awareness where the first down marker is. is that there is more than one way to win lost a regular season game in two years. a game. Three USA football coaching It depends on the team I’m playing or Easley: I’m going to max-protect, but I’m members recently shared their ideas on how personnel I’m using. I have a tall, 6-2 going to send my 6-2 receiver out and let him, they’d tackle various in-game scenarios. receiver who I’m likely going to throw a as he would say, “Moss him.” He can out- fade route to and go for the win. jump anybody. What If … you’re trailing 10-7 in I’m going to put my quarterback in the the fourth quarter with 2:00 remaining Schrader: Go for the touchdown or shotgun and bring all three of my backs without a time out. You have the ball on a first down. You have to go for it all, it’s around, usually to the right side. I love the the opponent’s 5-yard line and it’s fourth only one yard. You show confidence in Power-T because I always have a lead blocker. and one. Do you kick a field goal or go for your team. Our quarterback has a great arm and I’m a touchdown? going to have him try to get the ball to our What If … you’re losing, 28-21, and are tall receiver. Aho: I coach third-grade and eighth- in an obvious passing situation. When the grade teams. For the eighth-grade team, I defense shows blitz, are you more likely Schrader: I would send everybody out, usually would kick the field goal – we have to max-protect or send everyone out on I don’t like to max-protect too often. I would a very good kicker and points are points. In routes? Which play do you find the most say I’m more of a gambler. You can win big this scenario, it appears that the opposing successful when you choose one of these that way. defense has been able to stop us. However, formations? I would run something fairly short across with our holder and kicker, we have been the middle, a square-in or something like that. able to use an over-the-shoulder-flip trick Aho: I would probably blend it a little It depends on how the game is going, sometimes play similar to what LSU ran a few years bit and bring in two tight ends, but still I might fake the “in” and go for the fly. But if ago, that also may be an option. make sure I have my receivers going out. I they blitz, the middle should be open. We don’t kick field goals on the third- would run a tight end drag; bring the far Join the USA Football family with members grade level, so I would probably run the right guy across to the left, have the left guy in all 50 states to help you reach your coaching Wishbone with a few extra backs, try to get go to the right on a slant and have the tight potential. Visit usafootball.com today.

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12 COACHING.indd 15 2/18/09 10:45:49 AM 12 COACHING.indd 16 officiating league Health & fitness Coaching Coaching center Coaching 16 W By Rashad Mull USA FootballCoachingMembersHonoredbyLibertyMutualResponsibleSports game name of the is the For coaches, three “responsibility” veteran. “For me, it’s not really about the the about “For it’s me, not really veteran. military a16-year and Hawks grade fourth and Club’s third Youth Falcon Football the of coach Weese, assistant said appreciated,” parents and kids that dosomething to consideration. for award them nominated volunteers league and Parents selections. by their were humbled coaches three All submissions. resume coaching and references of nominations, thousands reviewed that panel judging independent of eighth-graders. ateam Titans, (Minn.) Park Brooklyn of the coach head Solomon, honor. national the earned coaches sports youth of 44 A total field. the off on and both athletics, youth in responsibility to commitment for their 2008 in awards Coaching Responsible Mutual Liberty earned all Kan., of Topeka, Toddand Reeves Colo., of Falcon, Weese Marcelo values. these for honored being members coaching USA Football Now one of he is three responsibility. work and hard of dedication, importance the players his teach to continues

“It makes me feel good that I was able able Iwas that good me feel “It makes an by selected were coaches The lotto me,”said an awful means “This Solomon, USA Football Magazine of Brooklyn Park, Minn., Minn., Park, of Brooklyn Solomon John for 29 seasons, football youth coaching hile T odd reeve s sportsmanship and to have fun,” he said. he said. have to fun,” and sportsmanship good teach to game, of the fundamentals essential the teach to be should coach Topeka a League’s Wolverines, Football Kansas Northeast the of coach head as year fifth kids.” the with out there It’s I’maward. what about doing L to earn a $2,500 try to club or league favorite their support to together come can supporters community Parents, coaches, commissioners and R a $2,500 Community the country will have an opportunity to earn Y back! are T L E “The primary goal of any youth any youth of goal primary “The his finished just Reeves iberty Mutual R Mutual iberty he R he esponsibleSports.com/football to learn more – the grant period closes on May 31. May on closes period grant –the more learn to esponsibleSports.com/football eague from L from eague arn $2,500 for Y for arn $2,500 esponsible Sports Community G Community Sports esponsible his job on the field so seriously. so field on job the his takes why Reeves is life in later succeed players helpto young beyond.” and football school high playing keep to want who kids those for place in blocks building put to “We need year. a for nearly member coaching Football aUSA Reeves, said football,” grade at fourth- stop team. fourth-grade outh football organizations across across organizations football outh Preparing the groundwork groundwork the Preparing doesn’t “Life esponsible Sports program. program. Sports esponsible R esponsible Sports Community G rant through the iberty Mutual! Mutual! iberty rants rants our Y athletes.” athletes.” of their lives the in and communities their in heroes unsung the oftentimes are who Coaches Responsible these celebrate and recognize to we seek Mutual, At Liberty lives. their throughout athletes with stay that lessons life important to or rink court field, on the learned lessons translate they day “Every Program. Sports Responsible Mutual Liberty of the director Paige, Lisa said communities,” of our fabric of the part ahuge responsibility.” is “Coaching G “Youth sport coaches are an integral integral an are “Youth coaches sport rant. outh Footballouth I t’s easy to get started. john solomon john G o to 2/18/09 10:45:59 AM Art of the Catch: Help a good receiver get better

By Dave McMahon

he foundation for a fundamental Boyles said. “Stance and start Matt Coultas of as basic as catching the football are so important. Another thing Winchester, Ill., a USA settles in far in advance of a ball we teach is that when you’re Football coaching member Tbeing thrown, or even snapped. running your routes, keep your and head coach in the The first thing a player must do eyes up. You see so many kids Western Illinois Valley in order to make a reception is get looking at the ground instead of Conference Junior Football comfortable at the line of scrimmage. looking up when they’re running League, also uses the “goal “It starts with the stance,” said their routes. We want to look Marcus Boyles post” drill in practice. Marcus Boyles, head coach at Wayne through the defensive back.” Coultas is a firm believer County (Miss.) High School and the One drill that Boyles in teaching basic receiving wide receivers coach for the 2009 USA implements finds the receiver techniques. Football Junior National Team standing behind the goal “First off, we teach the that will compete in the Junior post with his arms players to make a diamond World Championship this around it. The coach with their hands, with their summer in Canton, Ohio. then throws him the index fingers and thumb tips “You have to get the kid ball with the goal with palms out, above the in a comfortable post playing the Matt Coultas waist,” said Coultas. “For below position, and that role of defender. the waist catches, put your position varies “It forces them to pinky finger tips together with your from kid to kid. get those arms out and palms up, and fingers slightly down. You cannot be reach out for the ball,” When you catch the ball you want to standing straight he said. “The more receive it, keep arms extended and bring up, or you’ll get balls they can catch them in as the ball gets to you.” a defensive back in practice, even if it’s While Boyles and Coultas use walking up from a coach, the better off common drills to teach the art of right into your they’re going to be. I really catching a football, some may employ face. You want believe that you can never catch less conventional methods. some bend in the too many balls in practice.” “I remember Jerry Rice talking about stance, especially how his dad would toss bricks to him; in the torso.” “I remember Jerry his dad was a mason and laid bricks,” Boyles, who has Rice talking about how said Brian Mitchell, a USA Football 16 years of high board member and possessor of 255 school coaching his dad would toss career NFL receptions (1990-2003). experience and five bricks to him; his dad “Guys need to have confidence in the state championships was a mason and laid strength of their hands. Too many guys to his credit, bricks. Guys need to want to catch with the body.” also requires his have confidence in USA Football coaching members receivers to use may visit the Drills Library at every fraction of the strength of their usafootball.com to view more than 100 a second to their hands.” computer-animated practice drills on advantage. – Brian Mitchell, demand, complete with voice narration. “We preach USA Football board More than a dozen drills are dedicated no false steps,” member to receivers.

BRIAN MITCHELL 17

12 COACHING.indd 17 2/18/09 10:46:09 AM 18 HEALTHSAFETY.indd 18 officiating league Health & fitness Coaching Health &fitness 18 By NicoleL my son: Melanie Duncan footballWhat has taught Duncan to learn more about what football has taught her son. her taught has football more what about learn to Duncan Magazine Football USA provides. football playing lessons life the by influenced is Duncan family, community. help to his volunteers regularly and freshman Team aredshirt as 12 First All-Big Academic the major made Honorable Mention. 12 Conference All-Big named being his in recognized was play exceptional Duncan’s tackles. 89 with team the led Duncan 2008, went who 11-2 Raiders, Red the in today. possesses still he that passion undeniable an with sport America’s favorite playing up grow him have seen Mitchell, and father, Melanie and mother His top spot. the claimed always children know that we were very proud of them. Any child wants the the wants child Any proud of them. we were very that know children We our let just thing. We it afamily made just team. cheerleading the of coach the Iwas and for awhile, coach assistant the was husband position. natural his became that and linebacker and as he grew in that position, he was able to move over to middle alineman, out as He started afreshman. as team varsity on the made it to school,high he had the size and the experience to start out of stages, and the football beginning was Brian’s area. When he them to pick out what sports they wanted to go into once they got allowed We sports. different but several football not just into them something of themselves, andpresented an opportunity itself to put and I believed our in giving children to every opportunity make My husband since. ever he’s and playing old, been 6years was How did you stay involved in your son’s youth football experience? football youth son’s your in involved stay you did How football? playing start Brian did When S

Along with incredible support from his his from support incredible with Along business 6-1, The general 238-pound sophomore for aredshirt As We went to every game and participated in the games. My My games. the in participated and We game went every to He out started in a reclocal team here in Baton Rouge, HeLa. USA Football Magazine Duncan, but football has has but football Duncan, Texas Brian Tech linebacker for astaple have been ports recently spoke Melanie with

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Brian and Melanie Duncan to feed inspiration back to him. him. to back inspiration feed to me allows it is, character his what knowing and him, watch just I He’s leader. atrue my children. all as well as of him, proud Iam how about enough say can’t I and though, way good a in It’s you. on toll emotional an take can pass to come it seeing actually but be, to meant is this you know because sometimes overwhelming he’s happy. out because him doesn’t tire It community. he loves the people, he loves the this; with thing job. It’s same the loves their who aperson employee is best job, the a On that. into all Hehis puts giving. and loving about principles having, both on and off the field? the off and on both having, is son your success all the see to feel you make it does How others? for model arole be to him to important it is Why some steam, but he’s a very dedicated person, so it’s not just that. people do because things they need to burn offsome and energy is an outlet, but more I it that, think Brian takes than serious. Some I am highly proud of him and how it makes me feel is is me feel how it makes and proud of him highly I am he’s so biblical got good life, of his all He’s church in been them and motivated them, that’s what it took. what that’s them, motivated and them we encouraged long as as and parents, of their approval What has football taught your son? your taught football has What compassion for others and humility. And that’s the Brian’s success is his humility and compassion for compassion and humility his is Brian’s success to key –the him remind Ialways that one thing others. He’s dedicated, and we taught tohim not give It has taught him togetherness, sportsmanship, sportsmanship, togetherness, him taught It has up. He knows that it the wholetakes perform well in academics. Football him it makes and team, football that helps him perform well on the on the well perform him helps that and satisfy, to He likes do well. from his family have made him him have made family his from encouragement that he’s gotten he’s learned in life and the football? life been positively affected by by affected positively been life Brian’s of aspects other have How team to make adifference. make to team Who he is, the lessons that

2/18/09 10:46:35 AM

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE DUNCAN FAMILY AND TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY USA Football Member Mailbag USA Football’s non-profit office reached more than 1,000 of you – our valued members who power America’s favorite sport – during our 2008 member survey. We learned what’s most important to you and how we can best continue to provide resources and services to help you advance this game’s bright future. We offered an open-ended question about being a part of the USA Football family and here’s what you told us:

“The best part of being a USA Football member is …”

“…being affiliated with a nationally recognized “…the wealth of information that is literally at your association. Not only does USA Football provide me with fingertips.” additional learning opportunities, but it also reassures – Robert Gibson, Greenwood Bantam Football League, Greenwood, Ind. the parents of my players that I am certified and qualified to coach their children.” “…helping our youth develop into young adults – Robert Vujaklija, Chardon (Ohio) Lions Football, Painesville, Ohio through the ultimate team sport.” – Larry Leveranz, South Dakota Junior Football, Sioux Falls, S.D. “…that it’s for coaches who are serious about helping develop “…working with the member services young football players.” department; they always get back to me.” – Chad Ovitt, Canyon Hills (Calif.) Pop Warner, Anaheim, Calif. – Greg Ballay, Pine Richland Youth Football, Gibsonia, Pa.

“…the excellent information. As a first year football “…having a central point for all aspects of coaching. My coach, it really helped to give me the information I dealings with USA Football staffers have been fabulous and I needed to help my team become more successful.” plan to get other local coaches using USA Football resources.” – Matt Pauliks, Brockton (Mass.) Junior Boxers, Brockton, Mass. – Boone Norris, Fort Morgan Youth Football, Fort Morgan, Colo.

Strength & Conditioning: What’s best? By Chris Shepard

trength and conditioning are two of the most Miller suggests that young players start an off- important items for any football player to season strength and conditioning program consisting develop. Al Miller, former Atlanta Falcons of Monday, Wednesday and Friday workouts. While strengthS and conditioning coach, recently discussed he feels there is no “cure all” exercise for everyone, this topic with USA Football Magazine. he strongly recommends that all players begin every Miller expresses that strength and conditioning workout with a warm-up routine and end with cool- for youth football players should be treated as down exercises, again to prevent injury. though they are moving through grade school. Al miller “Everything that transpires in sports initiates with “You wouldn’t expect a first grader to do algebra,” ground movement,” Miller said. “If I’m coming out of said Miller, who recently contributed nearly an hour of insight my stance, I push into the ground with my feet. The next thing is for usafootball.com’s upcoming “Film Room” feature for how rapidly I can develop that force.” coaching members. “You start a young player out with a less- Miller feels all players should focus on six components: 1) anaerobic strenuous work load and you work him up to the tougher stuff capacity, 2) body composition, 3) joint mobility, 4) core strength, when he’s ready. Never rush a kid along too quickly – you will be 5) aerobic capacity and 6) strength endurance. He also recommends asking for an injury.” that young athletes always work out with an adult present.

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18 HEALTHSAFETY.indd 19 2/18/09 10:46:45 AM 20 LEAGUE.indd 20 officiating league Health & fitness Coaching LEAgue Center LEAgue 20 W By SteveAlic football youth leadersunite State Leadership Forums administrator. a current or former coach, player or football managers, each of whom is experienced as by one of USA Football’s seven regional events annually. Every state forum is run youth football commissioners to these managers personally invite more 800 than and schools,high USA Football regional programs football college clubs, NFL with partnership In or region. astate throughout commissioners for league meetings full-day Forums, Leadership State USA Football’s more. and checks background volunteer grants, financial assistance for league equipment guidance, fundraising rulebook, football-specific ayouth resources, education coaching sharing, idea with leagues Independent non-profit USA Football non-profitIndependent USA Football to central are and others topics These assisting to committed is USA Football

players now coaching at the high school level also take part. part. take also level school high at the nowplayers coaching NFL former and commissioners Youth league of Columbia. and schoolhigh coaches from50 statesall and the District D.C. of Washington, west miles 30 situated Association, Youth Athletic Virginia Northern for the operations of football director Webb, deputy said the opportunity,” 29-30. July from Youth Summit NFL the in participate to selected randomly is Forum Leadership State USA Football every from commissioner league youth summer. this Ohio, for Canton, bound but the duo does hold something in common – they’re both Woodson, Rod Enshrinee of Fame Hall Football Pro 2009 like State ForumDelegates Canton-Bound USA Football Magazine TheNFL Youthassembles Summit approximately200 youth “I’m excited about – this it’s a great year, one second-consecutive For the NFL the in Webb 71Moses passes may not have intercepted development. development. football for youngsters’ critical are leagues youth ell-run year.” for next transforms what to see wait hardly I can year. this developed was what into morphed has year last how we discussed what we loved seeing and forum the in participating year second our was “This February. in facility practice 49ers Francisco San at the Forum State California Northern USA Football’s in participated who leaders football youth 25 the among was Langton-Sloan counties. California Northern four spans which League, Football Junior Empire Vintage of the commissioner Langton-Sloan, Alice said leagues,” other with talking and meeting pleasure 4. April through runs schedule The forum year. this forums state 38 record-number a conduct will “It was a real areal “It was Summit news from Canton. from news Summit relationships. coach-player-parent regarding demonstrations and role-playing fitness and player hydration Program, Education NFL’s the development, Anti-Steroid ATHENA and ATLAS his fourth season of service with the league of 400 31. players. on Jan. entering He Forum is State Virginia USA“I Football’s plan Stay tuned to usafootball.com in late July for NFL Youth for NFL July late in usafootball.com to tuned Stay character include topics discussion YouthNFL Summit during trip Youth NFL Summit the attend to Webb chosen was Football State Forums. State Football USA 38 all from of one delegate comprised Forum National aUSA Football is agenda Ihave.” much longer than football other folks who have been involved in youth from gain “I’m I’ll sure he said. organization,” of our betterment for the ideas back to bring Included in the two-day NFL Youth Summit Youth NFL Summit two-day the in Included Commissioner membership is free! is membership Commissioner Football’s USA resources. strengthening league- youth more for tab “Commissioners” USA Football regional manager (pg. 21). manager regional USA Football your to,contact like but would forum, state sport.” world’s greatest the playing team-firstgain andvalues want to continue have players fun, where place same the to the exact same way, but we work all to get dothings Few families. like are leagues Regional Manager Bucky Brooks. “Football Visit usafootball.com and roll to the green green the to roll and usafootball.com Visit If your league has not participated in a a in not participated has league your If said USA Football West USA Football said goal,” that accomplish work together to to work together better and we experiences players’ their make to aim continually youth football power who “People “People 2/18/09 10:47:10 AM

Photo Courtesy of Pro Football Hall of Fame Photo: Joe Owens USA Football Regional Managers merica’s favorite sport is powered by you – dedicated youth league commissioners, coaches, game Aofficials and volunteers. For each of you, there is a face and name to place in your football Rolodex: your USA Football Regional Manager. USA Football Regional Managers are current and former coaches, players and administrators working for you. Each has the experience needed to help you make your league or team even stronger with USA Football’s resources. Contact your USA Football Regional Manager to learn how you can kickoff your free commissioner membership or to ask about coaching certification, the nearest USA Football Coaching School, Player Academy or Officiating School. Stay in touch with your regional manager, whether it’s to share news about your league or team or to ask about member resources. In addition, you may always contact our office, based outside of Washington, D.C., through usafootball.com or by phone at 1-877-5-FOOTBALL. Let us know how we can serve you better. Together we’ll ensure that teamwork and leadership continue to serve as the laces binding our favorite game.

Northeast Region Ed Passino Northwest Region Great Lakes Region (703) 992-8246 Bassel Faltas Central Region Scott LeVeque [email protected] (571) 730-4816 Joe Owens (571) 730-4815 [email protected] (571) 730-4822 [email protected] [email protected]

West Region Southeast Region Bucky Brooks Rick Peacock (818) 921-7616 (703) 992-8107 South & Mid-Atlantic [email protected] [email protected] Deno Campbell (703) 992-8653 [email protected] 21

20 LEAGUE.indd 21 2/18/09 10:47:23 AM 20 LEAGUE.indd 22 officiating league Health & fitness Coaching LEAgue Center LEAgue 22 By NicoleL $14,000 fundraiser in Mississippi league nets here: printed is suchnote of one excerpt An profitoffice. non- our to you” letters “thank send to continue season past this from recipients grant Equipment year. 2009-10 school the during programs football school high and school middle of youth, hundreds to grants equipment in $500,000 than more award Underwill Armour, and Riddell Thank you,USAFootball! sports, it was very easy to sell, especially when people find out it’s for the kids.” out it’sthe find people when for especially sell, to easy very it was sports, ofFootball. USA partner fundraising official the Cupsis Spirit BRAX season. $14,000 last more than raised organization the because is –another continue will fundraiser why the one reason is product of the likeability the said LeGrand teams. collegiate and NFL it.” about excited member. “People were really Committee Advisory Administrators aUSA Football new,” LeGrand, said totally something 2009. in repeated be will and success an overwhelming was campaign The season. last atry Cupsfundraiser Spirit BRAX gave the LeGrand Association, Youth Football Martin St. president of go. to way the As the is M K • • • • • • • • USA Football, with help from partners partners help from with USA Football, “The product is amazing, and everyone can relate to it,” LeGrand said. “Dealing with with “Dealing said. LeGrand to it,” relate can everyone and amazing, is product “The for designs and feature of four in quantities sold are cups The it was –and dough “A cookie haven’t –like worked lot of things

USA Football Magazine eys for a successful fundraiser: asuccessful for eys Communicate success to all involved with the campaign. the with all involved to success Communicate numbers. your audit to individual asecond Have A spent. be will money the where exactly Define goals. individual into down broken be can that goals organizational realistic Set A A implement. to simple and understand to easy is that afundraiser Pick ppoint one individual to be responsible for accounting elements. accounting for responsible be to individual one ppoint skills. organizational and leadership has who avolunteer ppoint ssemble a support committee to assist with the leader’s workload. workload. leader’s the with assist to committee asupport ssemble so what is the best way to stretch financial resources? financial stretch to way best the is what so at times, achallenge be can organization football ayouth as meet ends aking According to Dwayne LeGrand of Biloxi, Miss., a well-run fundraiser fundraiser awell-run Miss., of Biloxi, LeGrand Dwayne to According

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stresses education, good sportsmanship, fundamentals and respect for others. for respect and fundamentals sportsmanship, good education, stresses

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Mark V. Mark Joseph

Sincerely, Thank you so much for your generous donation of 22 football helmets to to helmets football 22 of donation generous your for much so you Thank Dwayne LeGran d this season. this league your for cash raise can Cups Spirit fee so we can have more kids playing.” playing.” have more kids we can so fee now the economy.with We lowercan the the parents, and it itmakes a lot easier right “It helps said. fee,” LeGrand registration account means we chargecan less for the more opportunities. and facilities improved equipment, better into have translated results these organization, For LeGrand’s results. seeing force in driving the be will to.” contribute we helped that doon to facilities upgrades afew had “We also said. on equipment,” LeGrand concentrated was fundraising our so them, you have refurbish to years few every season. last gear of new need in was Association Football Youth Martin St. the room, equipment the to damage some After Katrina. Hurricane from rebuild organization his helped has for success. chance your increase will acampaign launching before time Investing preparation. detailed requires Visit spiritcups.com and see how BRAX BRAX how see and spiritcups.com Visit “The more money Ican getthein Total commitment by the organization because helmets purchase to “I had fundraiser BRAX the said LeGrand fundraiser aprofitable Executing 2/18/09 10:47:35 AM From leather helmets to laptops USA Football’s Coaching Education Goes Coast to Coast By Steve Alic

eroy Hollins, Dave Skiljan and Ed per coach, USA Football’s CCEP enables Magazine subscription and more. The all- Sofo may never be mistaken for league commissioners to track their coaches’ inclusive coaching membership is $25 per George Halas, Woody Hayes or coursework progress, including scores on 11 coach, but is offered for $20 per coach if a KnuteL Rockne, but they’ve found a coaching quizzes with automatic grading. USA Football league registers 15 or more. innovation that the three legends would’ve has also built a re-certification test for CCEP “Most coaches in our league are volunteer loved – USA Football’s Certified Coaching graduates to stay sharp the following season. dads,” said Skiljan, president of the Great Education Program (CCEP). Since September of 2008, independent Lakes Youth Football League which spans USA Football members Hollins, Skiljan and Pop Warner leagues alike spanning nearly a dozen Cleveland suburbs. “Some have and Sofo are among a growing number coached or played football before and of youth league commissioners some haven’t. Ultimately, our players establishing standards and sharpening are the real winners because they’ll their volunteer coaches’ skills have better prepared coaches.” with USA Football’s exciting 3-D, Roughly 480 miles of highway computer-animated online course. east of Skiljan’s front door, Sofo, “One of the biggest concerns we Watchung Hills (N.J.) Junior faced with our previous coaching Warrior Football co-director, Leroy Hollins Dave Skiljan ed sofo certification was a timing issue – it has enlisted his coaches to take could only be conducted in a classroom,” California, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, CCEP Course Levels I and II, offering said Hollins, director of the Louisiana Youth Louisiana, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New greater sophistication and 26 additional Football League, comprised of more than Jersey, New Mexico, Ohio, Pennsylvania, comprehension quizzes. 2,000 Baton Rouge-area youngsters and 352 South Dakota, Texas and Virginia now “As a volunteer organization, it is difficult coaches. “Because our coaches have regular require volunteer coaches to complete to find and train qualified coaches,” Sofo jobs, being able to take the course online gives USA Football’s CCEP. Many also require said. “The CCEP guarantees a minimum them the freedom to complete it at their pace USA Football coaching membership, level of competence for all of our coaches. It wherever it’s convenient.” which includes coaching insurance, a 3-D teaches them the fundamentals of football, The two-hour animated course instructs computer-animated library of 150 drills practice planning and most importantly, how to teach football fundamentals and with a new printer-friendly function, an how to treat kids fairly.” incorporates coaching philosophy, practice online practice planner, USA Football’s For more about USA Football’s CCEP and planning and communicating with youth “Click ’n Create” online playbook with additional coaching resources, contact your players and parents. At the cost of only $10 e-mail capability, a year-long USA Football USA Football regional manager (see page 21). E-reminder for E-quipment Since 2006, USA Football has awarded more than $1 million in new football equipment to approximately 600 youth and school-operated football programs spanning 45 states. Based on merit and need, USA Football’s Grants Program in 2009 – with help from partners Riddell and Under Armour – will award $500,000 worth of new shoulder pads, helmets and more to leagues and school teams. Sign up at usafootball.com now to receive an automated e-mail – or “e-reminder” – informing you of when the 2009 USA Football Grants application form is ready. Request an e-reminder by clicking on the “Equipment Grants” link under the green “Commissioners” tab at usafootball.com. The application will be up and running by late April and all equipment will be shipped in time for the 2009 season.

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20 LEAGUE.indd 23 2/18/09 10:47:48 AM 24 OFFICIATING.indd 24 officiating league Health & fitness Coaching Officiating May 16-17 May 15-16 May 8-9 April 3-4 offering expert instruction to thousands of thousands to instruction expert offering in LeMonnier Bill Consultant Officiating Ten Big join USA Football and referee will NFL, the to leagues youth from ranges the void.” fill We to were schedule. asked our expand to us asked organizations many events, and clinics officiating attending country the traveled we “When said. Michalek ofTony Officiating Director Football 2009,” 19 to USA in we’re expanding 2009. in seminars and schools officiating of schedule its expanding dramatically by officiating football school high and for youth resource leading country’s the 24 USA FootballOfficiatingDirector Tony Michalek Date Schools Officiating By TimPolzer Schools andseminarsincludereviewsof2008’s uniqueplays training events officiating USA Football expands Michalek, whose officiating experience experience officiating whose Michalek, and 2008, in events “We three had role as its expanding is USA Football

USA Football Magazine Jacksonville, Fla. Tampa, Fla. Miami, Fla. Ariz. Phoenix, L ocation

Sandalwood High School Tampa Bay Buccaneers University of Miami of University Moon ValleyMoon High School Venue plays from the 2008 high school and and school high 2008 the from plays officials. college I Division and NFL from feedback valuable receive and scrimmages of those review film in participate crews, seven-official and five- in work scrimmages will registrants feasible.” financially not or they’re for beginners not designed either they’re and go to camps, to want that officiating to new guys many so are “There Calif. Goleta, from member officiating an Grant, said David officials,” for doing is huge USA for Football is what future the it now,and like There’s nothing country. the across officials football youth Participants also will review unique unique review will also Participants School Officiating USA Football now. ticket the is really “USA Football the gray “Officials” tab. “Officials” gray the under Schools” “Officiating click and usafootball.com visit schedule, TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD June 13 June 6 June 6 May 30 May 16 May 3 April 25 Date Seminars Officiating For the most up-to-date USA Football Officiating Training Event Event Officiating Training Football USA up-to-date most For the

San Diego, Calif. Denver, Colo. N.C. Charlotte, Boston, Mass. Boston, Baltimore, Md. Atlanta, Ga. Buffalo, N.Y. Louis, Mo. St. Wayne, N.J. Seattle, Wash. Seattle, Pittsburgh, Pa. San Francisco, Calif. Oakton, Va.Oakton, Green Bay, Green Wis. Los Angeles, Calif. Angeles, Los L ocation areas of the country,” Michalek said. said. country,” Michalek of the areas and more officials reach to able be to happy we’re events, very past our from response skills. hone to their chance the and techniques and fundamentals learn to the opportunity officials 2008. from plays unique applications involved some with of the more and philosophy mechanics, review also seminars The topic. and by position sessions classroom clinic that includes breakout afull-day in part take will attendees of officials. levels for all applications rules and philosophy mechanics, their discuss season, football college

“We’ve received such a positive “We’ve apositive such received more offer to excited is Michalek Seminar Officiating USA Football TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD St. John Fisher College St. St. Louis RamsSt. Facility Passaic County TechPassaic County Bellevue Community College Pittsburgh Technical Institute California High School Oakton HighOakton School Lambeau Field Santa College Monica Venue 2009 EVENTS at usafootball.com Schedule updates 2/18/09 10:48:28 AM

photo courtesy of the miami dolphins

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T S Meet a USA Football Member

Pete Dardis By Chris Shepard eing part of the USA Football family unites all of us who memberships for myself and 50 of my campers from my high are connected to America’s favorite sport. USA Football school camp. Officiating Member Pete Dardis has called high school footballB action in Northern California for more than 30 years. How have you benefited from USA Football’s officiating A retired Bank of America executive, membership? Dardis recently spoke with USA Football I benefited by encouraging the 50 Magazine to discuss his officiating passion. people that I purchased a membership for – as well as others – to take the time to What interested you in becoming a learn the mechanics and rules that USA youth football official? Football teaches and put it all together. I started out trying to be a basketball official. My high school basketball What is your favorite football memory? coach was also a football official and he I worked several section suggested trying football when I registered championships in the Oakland Coliseum too late to become a basketball official. I and I had my entire family in attendance. also played football in high school, so It was quite an experience to officiate in I was familiar with the sport and it that stadium, and be mic’ed up over the intrigued me. PA and everything.

What do you value most about being a What unanticipated benefits did you football official? gain by being a football The camaraderie and Name: Pete Dardis official? friendship. I’ve met a lot of Resides: Petaluma, Calif. It helped keep me in good nice people, many of them I physical condition. I took USA Football Membership: Officiating call friends. The fresh air and very few sick days in 35 years Position: Referee exercise are also great, but of work. By calling games, I nothing beats the friendships Official Since: 1974 learned about preparation, you gain. Level: North Bay Officials Association (High School) knowing the rules and how to communicate in the heat of a How did you learn about USA Football? moment. All of this helped me in my career. Through Tony Michalek. I was working a college camp in California and the head of the camp called to ask me to let Tony What would you say to someone considering becoming an run a 15-minute presentation about USA Football. I later ran official? across him again in Denver and we became good friends. Tony Officiating is a great avocation if you put it in perspective with asked me to be part of his crew at a USA Football presentation your family, work and life. I tell those around me, “Family first, at the San Francisco 49ers’ training facility and I bought work second, football third.”

USA Football’s LeMonnier Referees 50th AutoZone Liberty Bowl USA Football Officiating Consultant and veteran Big Ten Independence, Liberty and Texas Bowls. Conference football official Bill LeMonnier LeMonnier and USA Football Officiating Director and NFL Umpire refereed the AutoZone Liberty Bowl this past Tony Michalek author and oversee the non-profit’s officiating education January. The matchup in Memphis was his 12th program. The tandem travels throughout the off-season to direct nearly 20 college bowl game in 15 years as a Big Ten referee, USA Football officiating training events for America’s 55,000 youth, high in which Kentucky defeated East Carolina, 25-19. school and college football officials serving roughly 4.2 million players. Since 1989, LeMonnier has refereed three LeMonnier’s AutoZone Liberty Bowl appointment by the NCAA Fiesta Bowls, two Orange Bowls, two Holiday underscores that USA Football officiating members receive advice Bowls, and has also called the Cotton, GMAC, Bill LeMonnier from the best in the game.

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24 OFFICIATING.indd 25 2/18/09 10:48:47 AM 24 OFFICIATING.indd 26 officiating league Health & fitness Coaching Officiating 26 U By TimPolzer Certified OfficiatingEducationProgrammakingadifferenceinFlorida USA Football Tampa officials signal for assignments to his credit. credit. his to assignments Ten Big 12 bowl a15-year LeMonnier, with referee Bill Consultant Officiating USA Football is coursework the writing in Michalek Assisting Director Michalek. Tony Officiating USA Football and umpire NFL veteran by seven-year authored course, training officiating online computer-animated 3-D advanced most sport’s the is COEP The signals. and coordination mechanics, interpretations, rule philosophy, officiating covering program we were sold.” program, the online of demonstration a watching After [COEP]. of the elements interactive the liked we particularly and rules, and mechanics date on to up officials our helpto keep for aresource “We were looking said. Heugel program,” the to we werewhen introduced camp. officiating Football at aUSA qualities online of its demonstration a viewing after association for his COEP the results. winning with COEP the into officials game its 150 (WCOA) enrolled Association has Officials The Coast West The WCOA purchased USA Football’s COEP for each official official each COEP for The USA Football’s WCOA purchased acomprehensive is COEP USA Football’s Tampa here in acamp “We were attending recommended WCOA Heugel, presidentBen of football, vice USA F what you told us: told you what here’s and family Football USA the of apart being future. bright game’s this advance you help to services and resources provide to continue best can we how and you to important most what’s We learned survey. member 2008 our –during sport favorite America’s power who members valued –our you of 1,000 than more

USA Football Magazine We offered an open-ended question about about question open-ended an We offered reached office non-profit Football’s USA in Tampa, Fla., stay sharp and perform at a high level. level. at ahigh perform and sharp stay Tampa, Fla., in officials football school (COEP) high helping is Program Education Officiating Certified online SA Football’s Me ootball mb e r M a i lba g use almost daily.” almost Iuse that resource invaluable an is library video the Plus, official. off-season.” the during updated you keep and season the during you signals.” review and clips video being member …” aUSAis Football of part best “The – Michael G – Michael better amuch me made has –it offers site Web the resources the “…all of Calif. Ontario, Kelley, – Pat prepare help to this like aresource “…having I Warrenville, Jordan, – Laurie review to game my work to Igo before week every it –Iuse “…usafootball.com learn from demonstrations of plays and mechanics involved in in involved mechanics and of plays demonstrations from learn to guys our It allows use. to simple very that’s program training “It’s adetailed said. pace,” Heugel own at their train to guys our program. training 10-hour association’s the into integrate to convenientand resource effective an as resources built exclusively for USA Football officiating members. officiating Football USA for exclusively built resources their experiences with the program.” program.” the with experiences their and officials our from responses but positive “I’m nothing had provides. COEP USA Football’s training the relli, G relli, “The program is an excellent home-study tool that allows allows that tool home-study excellent an is program “The Visit usafootball.com for more information on the COEP and other other and COEP the on information more for usafootball.com Visit “We’re very happy with the results we’ve seen,” Heugel said. we’ve said. seen,” Heugel results the “We’re with happy very ibbstown, N.J. ibbstown, making the correct call. In most cases, our officials can officials our cases, most In call. correct the making positive feedback from those associations who are are who associations those from feedback positive experienced officials.” experienced update and officials new train to program the using answer their own questions through the program.” the through questions own their answer school level,” Michalek said. “We have received said. level,” Michalek school train football officials at the youth and high high and the youth at officials football train Heugel said the WCOA is more than satisfied with with WCOAsatisfied the more said than is Heugel and expert analysis from more than 20 years years 20 more than from analysis expert and them into this program in order to help better order help to better in program this into them we’ve developed through the years and built built and years the through we’ve developed ll. of officiating experience that culminated at culminated that experience of officiating the NFL level and time spent at hundreds of at hundreds spent time and level NFL the Michalek developed the COEP using insight insight using COEP the developed Michalek officiating clinics across the country. the across clinics officiating “We took the mechanics and situations situations and “We mechanics the took 2/18/09 10:48:56 AM Meet a USA Football staffer

Nate Boudreaux Senior Manager, Marketing & Business Development

What are your primary duties for than 10 years and have been working USA Football? youth tackle and high school games I’ve served USA Football for the for the past six seasons. It’s a great past three years and spend most of outlet for me. I enjoy being around my time working with our sponsors. the kids and the game and it really We aim to align ourselves with gets you close to the game – closer companies that have a similar goal than you can ever be as a fan, and mission as USA Football. All for sure. I already referee college of our partners are dedicated to basketball and hope to get into the making the sport even stronger. college football ranks next season.

What is your favorite part of the job? What are your goals for USA I’ve been fortunate to have worked Football in 2009? Nate Boudreaux in the sports world for the last 10 To create as much awareness years, from minor league baseball to in the corporate world for USA Arena Football to the NFL’s Cleveland suits my athletic ability. It’s made for Football and our junior national Browns. Being around the business of quarterbacks and receivers. I started team competing in the IFAF Junior sports is something I truly enjoy. Although playing and officiating flag football in World Championship next summer. USA Football is a non-profit organization, college and have been doing so ever since. there is still a business component to our Football is a game that really brings people What or who instilled your love for operations. But I especially enjoy knowing together. It has a special connection with football as a youngster? that the time and effort we put into people that a lot of the other sports just I’ve always been a huge football fan and developing our programs and resources don’t seem to have. It’s no coincidence the started as a kid in New Orleans watching is truly making a difference for the people most watched television program every the Saints in the early 1980s. Unfortunately who power this great game on youth and year is the Super Bowl. they weren’t that good at the time, but I high school levels. didn’t care. For me, Sundays were church You officiate youth and high school followed by football. I was glued to the TV What does football mean to you? football as well. What interested you in every Sunday at noon waiting for my Saints Growing up, I played a lot of pick-up becoming a game official? to take the field. I guess some things never football games, but I really never got I got started with flag football in college change. Here I am some 20 years later, still involved with organized football until to make a few extra bucks and I became perched in front of the TV (or at a sports bar) college when I played flag. The flag game hooked. I’ve officiated flag football for more watching NFL football on Sundays.

Riddell & Under Armour Join USA Football Two of the best names in the game have joined USA Football’s Both will equip USA Football’s national teams and be part of roster. USA Football’s Grants Program (see Exciting new partnerships with page 23) to further strengthen youth Riddell and Under Armour lifts and school-based football programs each organization’s profile within based on merit and need. football’s passionate grassroots “Welcoming industry community while bolstering USA Football training events and leaders like Riddell and Under programs. This marks the first time that either Riddell or Under Armour into the USA Football family is a tremendous source Armour have teamed up with a sport’s national governing body. of excitement,” said USA Football Executive Director Scott Riddell is USA Football’s official helmet and protective Hallenbeck. “We’re proud to have our newest partners be part of equipment partner while Under Armour is the official outfitter of our 12-month calendar of national events and initiatives to help USA Football training events and national teams. make football’s future even brighter.”

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27 Staffer.indd 27 2/18/09 10:49:21 AM Texas prep coach attends Super Bowl XLIII as USA Football & NFL guest

By Chris Shepard

ris Hogan, a USA Football coaching member and head coach of the Grapevine K(Texas) Faith Christian Lions, drew national attention last Nov. 7 when he asked half of his team’s fans to cheer on and support the opposing Gainesville State School Tornadoes. Gainesville State is a maximum- security technical high school whose players are deemed chronically delinquent or serious juvenile offenders. Hogan was invited to attend Super Bowl XLIII as a guest of NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and USA Football as a gesture of appreciation for his uncommon show of sportsmanship. “We wanted to figure out the best way to minister to these kids and give them what they needed the most,” Hogan said. “They needed hope. The best way to do that was to cheer them on by name. “Their behavior, their conduct at the game, their grades – those are Grapevine (Texas) Christian High School head football coach and USA Football coaching all things that are commendable. We member Kris Hogan, right, speaks with long-time Dallas sports radio show host Norm wanted to show that if you do the Hitzges of Sportsradio 1310 “The Ticket” along Super Bowl XLIII Radio Row in Tampa, right thing, people will get behind Fla. Hitzges lauded Coach Hogan’s display of thoughtful sportsmanship as well as USA you and you can do anything.” Football’s promotion of the game’s values. After the game, the teams prayed together at the 50-yard line and as “Coach Hogan understands the Hogan attended the game and each Tornado player boarded the values of what football – and sports was interviewed to share his story Gainesville bus, he received a burger, in general – are all about,” said USA of football values with national fries and soda, a Bible and a letter Football Executive Director Scott media, including NFL Network, of encouragement from a Faith Hallenbeck. “We’re proud to call him ESPN and NFL Sirius Satellite Christian player. a coaching member.” Radio.

Photo: Steve Alic 28 USA Football Magazine

28 Hogan.indd 28 2/18/09 10:49:32 AM Meet a USA Football board Member Bob Gardner Chief Operating Officer National Federation of State High School Associations

elping steer USA Football’s mission as the sport’s national governing body on youth and amateur levels is its 18-member Board of Directors. The board is composed of leaders throughout the football community who share a deep Happreciation for America’s favorite sport. This issue of USA Football Magazine introduces you to USA Football Board Member Bob Gardner, chief operating officer for the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), based in Indianapolis.

How did you gain a love for football? My father coached at Rockport (Ind.) High School from 1953-59, and I started going to games when I was very young. I went to the high school practices when I was in grade school. I loved football from my earliest recollection.

What does football mean to the National Federation of State High School Associations? It is very important to our member state associations. It is the most popular sport for boys with over 1.1 million high school participants. The revenue generated from state USA Football and the NFHS are working tournaments supports many programs in our states. together to roll out a fundamentals training course for high school What does football need in order to become more popular? coaches this year. How significant is We need better injury surveillance in high schools. Then use that information to this and why? develop equipment to lessen risk to the player. This course will become part of the NFHS certification for high school Where have you seen USA Football make its greatest strides during your tenure on coaches. It will provide the framework the board? for teaching the fundamentals correctly I am pleased with the education efforts to improve coaching. This effort is making a to enhance the student experience. It is a difference that directly impacts the young people who participate in our youth programs. natural partnership.

USA Football’s board of directors Ray Anderson Jon Butler Roger Goodell Keith Rucker Exec. V.P., Football Operations Executive Director Commissioner Head Football Coach National Football League Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. National Football League Cincinnati Mt. Healthy H.S. Jason Belser Tom Cove Scott Hallenbeck Frank Sanchez Senior Regional Director President & CEO Executive Director Vice President NFL Players Association SGMA International USA Football Boys & Girls Clubs of America Richard Berthelsen Carl Francis Jack Kemp Grant Teaff Interim Executive Director Director of Communications Chairman, USA Football Executive Director NFL Players Association NFL Players Association Former U.S. Congressman American Football Coaches Association Joe Browne Alexia Gallagher Mark Meana Exec. V.P., Communications Director, NFL Youth Football Dept. Chairman Deborah Yow & Public Affairs National Football League Fairfax County (Va.) Athletic Director National Football League Youth Football League University of Maryland Bob Gardner Chief Operating Officer Brian Mitchell National Federation of State Former NFL Running Back High School Associations Program Host, Washington Redskins Radio Network

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29 Board.indd 29 2/18/09 10:49:51 AM Football facts, stats & figures

USA Football continually conducts and uncovers research to share with you, our members. We speak with league commissioners, youth coaches, game officials and parents to learn how America’s favorite sport can be even better. Every issue of USA Football Magazine shares “Facts, Stats and Figures” related to football and the youth sports community.

Gridiron Grapevine This past December, USA Football’s member services department reached more than 1,000 of you – our members – to learn more about you and how we can serve you better. Here is some of what you shared with us:

How did you learn about USA Football?

0 15%15 30%30 45%45 60%60

Through my youth football league Through a “youth football” web search Football = Must-See TV From a friend involved in youth sports Few events can rally Americans together and Through a link on another web site bring shared experiences like football and the 2008 Nielsen television ratings back it up! The From the newspaper, radio or TV country’s four most-viewed sporting events last Chart 1 year were all NFL games. The only other telecast to break the top five was the Summer Olympics On what levels of football have you played? Opening Ceremony in August.

0 22.5 45%45.0 67.5 90.090% America’s top-five most-watched TV sporting High School events of 2008: Youth Tackle Pick-Up 41.3 rating Adult Flag Super Bowl XLII (Giants-Patriots) College Feb. 3 Youth Flag Semi-Pro 29.0 Professional NFC Championship Game (Giants-Packers) Jan. 20 What youth sports do your children play? 25.7 0 22.5 45%45.0 67.5 90%90.0 AFC Championship Game (Chargers-Patriots) Jan. 20 Tackle Football 23.6 Baseball NFC Divisional Playoff: Giants-Cowboys Basketball Jan. 13 Soccer 18.8 Flag Football Opening Ceremony, Beijing Summer Olympics Source: 2008 USA Football member survey Aug. 8

30 USA Football Magazine

30 Stats.indd 30 2/18/09 10:50:20 AM Brax.indd 7 2/18/09 10:41:06 AM What Football Taught Me Father Kevin Fimian, St. Timothy Parish, Chantilly, Va.

As Told To steve alic

Responsibility and teamwork are become by virtue of the experience. school football, baseball and basketball inherent football values, woven in a game In the past year, USA Football Magazine official, Fr. Fimian was an accomplished rich in excitement, strategy and desire. has illustrated the game’s influence on a retired prep athlete as a running back and a Football values are not handed to you. U.S. Congressman, a CEO, a college professor Virginia state champion wrestler, which led These strong character qualities develop in and a sergeant in the U.S. Army. This issue to a full scholarship to the Virginia Military those who make the commitment to be part shares what football taught Father Kevin Institute (VMI). of something larger than one’s self. This is Fimian of St. Timothy Parish in Chantilly, Va., From St. Timothy’s rectory in Northern America’s favorite sport because of what 15 miles west of Washington, D.C. Virginia, Fr. Fimian recently spoke with USA it gives us, what it teaches us and what we The son of a long-time Virginia high Football to share what football taught him.

rowing up in Virginia Beach, freshman running back that year that was I played football from when extremely gifted and went on to star at Penn I was eight years old through State and the NFL – that freshman was D.J. Ghigh school. I started as a lineman. Dozier [Editor’s Note: Dozier became the My older brother, Keith, was a terrific first player to lead Penn State in rushing athlete – he went on to be a starting for four consecutive seasons and helped running back and captain at William & the Nittany Lions earn the 1986 National Mary. Based on his success, my coaches Championship]. D.J. was the reason why I looked at me and said, ‘Well, let’s give moved from running back to fullback. Aside Fimian the ball and see if he can run.’ from being a great player, he was a great guy. So, I became a running back. It was difficult going from being “The After my sophomore year in high Man” to a blocking fullback, but it was no Fr. Kevin Fimian of St. Timothy Parish in Chantilly, Va., a former school, I transferred to Kempsville High accident – it was part of God’s will. I had high school fullback and team captain, embodies football values (10 miles west of Virginia Beach), which in leading his parishioners to daylight seven days a week. to take on a different role and I embraced was a much bigger school than where it. We advanced to the playoffs my senior I had been. I continued to play football and had just won a state year, were district champs and lost to Hampton (Va.) High School, championship in wrestling as a sophomore. My name was mentioned which eventually won the state championship that season (1980). in a preseason article that I’d likely be the starting running back that Everything I’ve been given – including what I’ve learned about fall. Well, my soon-to-be classmates would now expect me to be a life through football – has been given by God. And sometimes significant part of the team. That motivated me to train. those gifts are brought out through trial, in suffering. I really worked hard. I was a lifeguard at the beach that summer At VMI, there’s a saying, ‘You may be whatever you resolve to and I’d get there early to run, sprint and cut on the sand to build be.’ We have goals. The ultimate goal is eternal life attained by up my legs and balance. Kempsville’s program had been down Christ through his suffering, death, and resurrection. And I believe for awhile, but that season, we reached .500. However, in our last in others – that they can overcome anything – because I believe in game of the year, I hyper-extended my knee on a carry and needed God and the power of prayer. I’ve seen what it has done in my life. surgery. I was told that I wouldn’t play again. At the time, it seemed that my injury was the worst thing that Despite not knowing if I’d be able to play my senior season, my could have happened to me, but who knows where I’d be if that teammates voted me in as a captain. hadn’t happened? I love where I am and being the man God called God gives us challenges. Overcoming the injury by working me to be. I see miracles every day. I couldn’t be happier doing what hard at rehab, along with an irascible desire to get back on the field, I’m doing and will always be grateful for what God has given me was formative in my personality. I knew that I couldn’t only put through the great game of football. faith in myself. Each issue of USA Football Magazine reveals what America’s Character is forged in the fire. When the team voted me a captain, favorite sport has taught accomplished individuals in a variety of I had to come back – I didn’t have a choice – I couldn’t let them down. vocations. These football accounts illustrate how today’s players I made it back and played as a senior, but I had lost a step. We had a become tomorrow’s leaders.

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32 What Football Taught.indd 32 2/18/09 10:50:34 AM Cv3.indd 7 2/18/09 10:40:19 AM Cv4.indd 7 2/18/09 10:40:34 AM