As the new school year gets underway, I want to take a moment to remind our families what sits at the very heart of Pop Warner’s mission: development. Not just as athletes, but as students and well-rounded individuals.
For nearly 100 years, we’ve proudly stood as the only national youth sports organization that requires our athletes to perform in the classroom before they can compete on the field. That’s why we remain deeply committed to our All-American Scholar Program, which honors the student-athletes who embody the balance of excellence in both academics and sports.
In today’s sports world – where NIL deals, professional contracts, and social media highlights dominate the conversation – it’s easy for young athletes to get caught up in what they see: million-dollar endorsements, flashy cars, and the spotlight of fame. But the truth is, less than 7% of high school athletes go on to play in college, and even fewer reach the professional level. While we want our young athletes to dream big, we also want them to be prepared for every opportunity life brings.
Competition is healthy and we each want to win. But Pop Warner has always been about something bigger than trophies or championships. It’s about teaching discipline and teamwork, building confidence, and instilling values that transcend sports. It’s about shaping well-rounded young people who can thrive wherever their journey takes them.
That’s why we ask our parents and coaches to help us create an environment where our athletes can develop as whole individuals:

• Build a balanced culture. Create an environment that balances development and discipline with fun, where athletes learn key life lessons and values while also building long-lasting friendships and memories.
• Celebrate wins in the classroom. Set academic standards and goals, and reinforce the importance of hard work in school. Each year, we highlight student-athletes who excel academically through our All-American Scholar program. Applications are open until October 1. We are excited about the in-person return of our All-American Scholars celebration in Chicago in March to recognize their incredible achievements.
• Encourage community involvement. Many of our teams volunteer in meaningful ways – organizing food drives, cleaning up local parks, visiting patients, and more. Each year, we honor those efforts through the Pop Warner Community Star Award. If you know of a team or association that is making a positive impact in their community, let us know! Nominations are open until October 31.
• Foster teamwork and sportsmanship. Remind athletes that respect – for teammates, coaches, opponents, and officials – is the foundation of the game, and that being part of a team means putting something greater than themselves first.

It all begins with setting the right example, providing strong leadership, and offering meaningful mentorship – from our coaches to our volunteers and every supporter along the way.

Thank you for helping us build an environment where young people grow not just as athletes, but as students and leaders. Together, we’re shaping a generation who understands that true success is defined by more than wins. It’s built on character, resilience, and community.