Crossing over from Thanksgiving to December has always marked a bittersweet moment on the calendar for the Pop Warner family. It means we’re nearing the official end of our season but we’re also heading into the Pop Warner Super Bowl and Cheer & Dance National Championships, one of the greatest weeks in all of youth sports.
This year will mark my last championship week as Pop Warner’s executive director. But as I retire from this position I’ve been privileged to hold for 33 years, some of my favorite moments emanate from this incredible event. It is more smiles than sadness as I think about the countless memories young people were able to create with their friends, teammates and families.
The excitement is palpable from the athletes, especially the majority who haven’t had the opportunity to experience the event before. They get to travel to a new place, stare in awe at the presentation of the venues with the signage, decorations, and pageantry. Compete against the rest of the best teams in the country. And enjoy some Florida weather in December, which is always good for the soul.
I always remember a young cheer squad viewing the beautiful set-up of the competition floor, and one of the little girls, probably about 8 years-old, saying “It’s just gorgeous!” The pure joy in her eyes and her voice said it all.
And the football players seeing themselves on the Jumbotron at Camping World Stadium might as well have been Monday Night Football for those kids. They felt like superstars at the pinnacle of their young careers.
What I have enjoyed and valued the most about this week over the years was always the excitement the kids shared with their teammates, forging an indelible experience that will live with them forever.
So, as we head to Orlando for the 67th Pop Warner Super Bowl and the 37th Cheer & Dance National Championships, I’m looking forward to watching our athletes create memories all over again. As I pack away those sights and sounds in my own memory bank, I am grateful that they will have their own collection of cherished experiences.
We wish all participants the best of luck and, as always, encourage everyone to embrace the moment and have fun. Let's proudly represent our teams, families, and Pop Warner with respect and positivity.
Thank you!

Jon Butler
Executive Director