09/21/2025
We Must All Strive to Do Better
As I prepare for our 14th Annual Championship, I’ve been reflecting on the responsibilities and challenges that come with organizing meaningful opportunities for our association to play. This work includes sending out communications that often go unanswered, setting deadlines that are missed, organizing meetings with low attendance, coordinating with schools, and making calls to check in with leaders—many of which receive no response. While these challenges are frustrating, I continue to do the work because I believe in our mission and the value of what we’re building together.
This year, several concerning trends have emerged:
• Lack of communication across teams and leadership
• Cancellation of scheduled games without notice
• Disrespect toward officials, coaches, and fan bases
• Low volunteer involvement within association teams
As a handshake league, we rely on mutual respect and commitment. Unfortunately, I’ve received numerous calls this season from teams failing to fulfill scheduled games or failing to communicate their absence. This undermines the integrity of our league and the trust we place in one another. The association only works if we honor the agreements we make.
Our annual meeting was once a time for all towns to come together to discuss rules, scheduling, and expectations. As attendance has declined and teams schedule independently, miscommunication and missed opportunities have increased. This is especially problematic for smaller programs that rely on scheduled games to fund their teams.
We’ve also seen a rise in unsportsmanlike conduct from fans, coaches, and even players. With 17 towns, multiple levels of play, and thousands of participants, we will naturally have differing perspectives and goals. Some programs are highly competitive, while others are simply trying to get a team on the field. As an association, we strive to support both ends of that spectrum. We respect each team’s direction and do our best to help them succeed. However, it is up to each team to ensure coaches are trained, agreements are honored, and players are developed. That is the foundation of our association.
A Moment That Stood Out
Earlier this week, I was substituting at a school when a fifth-grade football player told me, “We couldn’t win because the referees cheated us.” The student didn’t know I was the league president, but their comment stuck with me. That same day, I received calls from three different organizations expressing concerns about officiating. I followed up by speaking with coaches, parents, and referees to better understand the situation.
This moment reminded me of how important it is to model respect for officials and to teach our young athletes that referees are part of the game—not obstacles to blame. Using officiating as a crutch for winning or losing sends the wrong message. Instead, we must help our players focus on what they can control: their effort, attitude, and ex*****on. Calls may not always go your way, but overcoming adversity is part of the game—and part of life.
Referees are facing increasing hostility, making it harder to recruit and retain officials. The lack of basic decency and respect toward others—whether teams, referees, or volunteers—is deeply concerning. Too often, the desire to be “right” overshadows the importance of doing what is right.
I do this for the kids. Our future leaders are on the field, and we must create an environment that supports their growth—not just as athletes, but as people.
Why Early Skill Development Matters
Skill development in youth sports is time-sensitive. Research shows that the optimal window for developing fundamental skills begins to close around ages 12 to 14. Delaying training can have lasting consequences:
• Ages 3–5: Ideal for introducing basic motor skills
• Ages 6–8: Skills can be refined through organized play
• Ages 9–12: Competitive play increases; late starters may struggle
• Ages 12–14: Critical transition period—skills not developed by this age are harder to acquire
Consequences of delayed development include:
• Reduced physical confidence
• Fewer social opportunities through sports
• Lower long-term participation in physical activity
Encouraging early skill development fosters a lifelong positive attitude toward physical activity and teamwork.
What the Association Provides
Our association offers tools and resources to support volunteers and teams, including certification and training through USA Football. We also collaborate with programs like the Music City Bowl to create additional opportunities for our players. These resources are designed to protect volunteers, develop athletes, and strengthen our community.
Let’s recommit to the values that brought us together: respect, communication, and collaboration. The association is only as strong as its members. Together, we can ensure a positive experience for every child who steps onto the field.
Let’s remember why we do this.
We do it for the kids—for their growth, their confidence, their future. Every game is a chance to teach resilience, respect, and responsibility. Let’s lead by example, honor our commitments, and build a culture where sportsmanship matters more than the scoreboard. Together, we can create something lasting—something bigger than football.
Final Steps & Championship Preparation
As we move closer to the 14th Annual Championship, I need your help to ensure everything runs smoothly:
1. Championship Attendance
If your team is participating in the championship, please complete the second link I sent in league leader’s text. This helps us confirm attendance and plan accordingly.
2. Sixth Grade Teams
If you have a sixth-grade team, please let me know whether you will be participating in the championship. Your response will determine if we can hold a sixth-grade division this year.
3. T-Shirt Orders
For those interested in championship t-shirts, please place your order by October 1st at https://omella.com/uaft6.
Be sure to include your team’s name and player name with the order so we can deliver shirts accurately at the event. A discounted price is available through this link
I want to thank each of you for being part of this association. We do this for your kids—to give them opportunities to grow, compete, and reach their full potential. Your commitment, communication, and sportsmanship are what make this possible.
Let’s finish this season strong. Let’s lead with integrity, model respect, and remember that every moment on the field is a chance to shape the future. Good luck to all teams—and thank you for your time, your effort, and your heart.
