Feature Story

June 2019

NFL Foundation Helps to Advance Youth Wellness

By Deborah Vence

Now in its fifth year, the NFL-FLAG-In-Schools Program aims to increase physical activity among youth by providing flag football resources to underserved school communities. As a result of the program's efforts, led by the NFL, USA Football, GENYOUth and Fuel Up to Play 60, 9.1 million students have become more active before, during and after school since 2014. And, about 4,200 NFL FLAG Kits will be distributed across the nation during the 2019-2020 school year, reaching about 2.3 million new students.

"Since 2014, when this groundbreaking partnership was announced between the NFL, USA Football, GENYOUth and Fuel Up To Play 60, we have provided over 16,000 school communities with flag football equipment to equip and engage students in fun physical activity before, during and after school," GENYOUth CEO Alexis Glick stated.

Dawn Aponte, NFL senior vice president, football operations and chief football administrative officer, also said, "The NFL is constantly seeking to enhance the football experience for participants as well as fans. The NFL FLAG-In-Schools Program has provided access and opportunities for participants of all ages and abilities to develop their passion for football while staying active. We also greatly appreciate NFL Legends who have engaged with participating schools throughout the country."

For the 2019-2020 school year, high schools across the nation will be invited to apply for the kits, with a focus being on growing female participation in the game. Included in the existing curriculum will be a female focus with the support of SHAPE America and guidance from USA Football.

In the upcoming school year, 100 percent of school-based Boys and Girls Clubs of America will have FLAG-In-Schools kits, which will enable increased opportunities for students to be physically active after school in addition to the school day.

In addition, the program this year has added online tools and resources for PE teachers and coaches. The NFL FLAG-In-Schools program administered in-person training for 200 educators at AdventHealth Training Center, which is the home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, during SHAPE America's National Convention in Tampa, Fla.

To learn more about NFL FLAG-In-Schools and request a free FLAG-In-Schools kit, go to FuelUptoPlay60.com. To find or start an NFL FLAG league in your community, go to NFLFLAG.com.