Dear Friends,

I often think about the day my life changed in ways I could never imagine. 

I was in a good place. I had the pleasure of working in the football industry, spent numerous years coaching high school football, and found great joy in being a Big Brother through Big Brothers-Big Sisters. My life felt full and meaningful.

Then, in a twist of fate, a couple of friends mentioned that Pop Warner was looking for a new Executive Director. This was a life-changing moment for me. 

I had often heard the saying, "your strength is where your interest and your experience intersect." Pop Warner seemed to be the perfect opportunity that aligned with my passion and expertise. I pursued and won the job to lead this important organization and have never taken it for granted.

Today, after 33 years, I am ready to close this chapter of my life. I will retire at the end of this season, and I will do so with gratitude and an immeasurable collection of experiences, memories and relationships. What a remarkable journey it has been. 

While listing all the incredible moments would require a tome, these are a flavor of the countless moments that I cherish deeply.  

• I will never forget the time Bernadette Portman, our then National Cheer Commissioner, and I taught the “Electric Slide” to 1,500 Pop Warner athletes. It was a joyful, fun-filled moment that brought everyone together in a spirit of camaraderie and celebration.
  
  
• One of my proudest achievements has been restoring and resuming actual financial scholarship awards through our Academic All-American program. Providing these scholarships has made a significant difference in the lives of our young athletes, supporting their educational aspirations and recognizing their hard work both on and off the field.


• Our first championships at Disney World were nothing short of magical. Hosting such a prestigious event in a place known for its enchantment and wonder added an extra layer of excitement and pride to the occasion.


• Participating in our largest Scholastic Banquet, with 1,400 attendees, was another highlight. It was inspiring to see so many people come together to celebrate the academic and athletic achievements of our youth. The banquet was a testament to the importance of balancing sports with academics and the impact of community support.


• In 2003, we became the second youth sports organization to require background screening for volunteers. This was a significant step in advancing the safety and well-being of our athletes. Implementing this policy has helped create a more secure environment for our young participants and set a standard for others to follow.


• I have also had the privilege of overseeing the tremendous growth of our competitive cheer and dance programs, partnering with our uber-dedicated commissioner and leader of all things cheer and dance, Lisa Moroski. Watching these programs flourish and seeing the talent and dedication of the participants has been incredibly rewarding.


• Seeing the energy and joy that came with our cheer and dance championships in the Orange County Convention Center was as amazing as the football championship games being played for the first time in the enormity and beauty of Camping World Stadium. The grandeur and the excitement were a fitting tribute to the hard work and dedication of our athletes and coaches.

But in the end, it comes down to the people. I’m not sure anyone has any idea how hard our small national staff works – Beth Dietz and Lisa, who have been with us for more than 20 years each; our talented and dedicated COO Tim Glase and football commissioner Clarence Curry.  I am grateful to them and those who preceded them who gave so much – people like Sam Mutz and Phyllis Farruggio. And the dedicated volunteer partners who make sure our regions, leagues, associations and teams are in place to create opportunities for the kids.

That is what it all comes down to – creating a quality organization that allows young people the chance to learn, compete and have fun. That has driven me each day for three decades.

Thank you for being a part of this incredible ride. Here's to a great season this year and many more memorable moments and continued success in the future!

Warmest regards,



Jon Butler
Executive Director