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Pop Warner Little Scholars YOUR FUTURE BEGINS HERE!

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18

Jul, 2024

Pop Warner Executive Director Jon Butler Announces Retirement

Langhorne, PA – Pop Warner Little Scholars, the nation’s preeminent youth football and cheer organization, today announced that Executive Director Jon Butler will retire at the end of the 2024 season, following 33 years at the helm. The organization has launched a search for his replacement.  
 
“Jon has been an incredible force for good at Pop Warner the past three decades, always bringing a focus on what’s best for the young people who cheer, dance or play football in communities across the country and around the world,” said Wynn Jessup, Pop Warner Little Scholars Board Chairman. “From the moment we recruited him into the role, we have been fortunate to have Jon leading with unwavering commitment to the mission. But as we prepare to say goodbye to one great leader, we are excited for the opportunity to welcome his successor and to refresh our vision as we approach our 100-year anniversary.”
 
“I have been incredibly proud to work with thousands of amazing people who care deeply about serving the Pop Warner Little Scholars mission and providing enriching, fun and positive sports experiences for young people,” said Butler, who will remain on the Pop Warner Board in an emeritus role. “It has been an honor. I look forward to providing continued support as we navigate this transition together. We look forward to the exciting opportunities that lie ahead and to writing the next chapter of our organization's storied history.”
 
Since 1929, Pop Warner has consistently set the tone as a model of excellence in youth sports, championing the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and personal growth. The organization, with more than one million alumni having passed through the ranks, has focused on shaping not only skilled athletes but also confident, resilient individuals prepared for success both on and off the field, while shining a light on the value of academics. There are more than 800 Pop Warner associations, or local programs, across the U.S.

“The search for our new Executive Director will be comprehensive and thorough,” said Jessup. “The committee will seek candidates who embody the values and vision of our organization, possess strong leadership qualities, and demonstrate a genuine passion for youth development through sports..”

“Jon Butler has left a lasting legacy on youth football,” said Tom Cove, President and CEO, Sports & Fitness Industry Association. “He has been a stalwart, consistent voice to protect and improve the game, always putting the safety and experience for young players at the center of his agenda.  It was my pleasure to work closely with Jon as he guided Pop Warner to be one of the leading youth sport organizations in this country.  He has also been a leader in the broader area of youth sports through his leadership positions on the National Council of Youth Sports, USA Football and multiple committees and task forces addressing critical needs for America’s young people. Generations of youth football players and their families are better off due to Jon’s exemplary leadership of Pop Warner.“
 
“The sport of football has always had its challenges and issues. For the past 33 years, Jon Butler has been the standard bearer by showing a steady hand to solve the problems, while displaying a clear vision to address the issues,” said Steve Hatchell, President and CEO, National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame, Inc. “Everyone appreciates his level-headed demeanor, counsel, and friendship. Jon has so much to be proud of with all he has accomplished, and without question, his impact on us will always be remembered.  Congratulations, Jon Butler.  Football is better because of you!”

“It has been my great pleasure to work with Jon Butler.  Jon has been an integral part of Pop Warner for over three decades, and his dedication and passion have helped countless young athletes realize their full potential,” said Marty Grogan. JAMZ EVP and YCADA Board Chair. “I will miss Jon's leadership, but am grateful for the legacy he leaves behind and the strong foundation he has laid for future cheerleaders and youth football players.”

About Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc.
Founded in 1929 and headquartered in Langhorne, PA, Pop Warner Little Scholars is the nation’s oldest youth football, cheerleading and dance organization and the only youth sports organization that emphasizes academics as a prerequisite for participation. Pop Warner participants enjoy the opportunity to learn and compete in their sports in an atmosphere that emphasizes fun, safety, academics and character. For more information on Pop Warner and its programs visit www.popwarner.com or follow Pop Warner on YouTube, Instagram or Facebook.

Contact

Pop Warner Little Scholars

P.O. Box 307 
Langhorne, Pennsylvania 19047

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