Local Youth Football Team Raising Money to Compete in AFL Championship Tournament in Florida

A Journey to the National Championship

A group of young boys in Garfield Park are preparing for a huge game, having won a state title and a regional championship in Detroit last weekend and qualifying to compete on a national level in Naples, Florida. According to Aiden Malone, a right guard for the 290 Elite 10U team, "It’s very important, because, like, we worked really hard, from January to now, to get to Florida."

Challenges Ahead

Getting the team to Florida isn’t easy, according to coach Tomorrio Anderson. "We’ve got to get 25 young men down there, 10-year-olds at that, we got to feed them for 9 days, possibly 10, house them and of course the transportation." The grand total needed is about $30,000, and the team has begun fundraising to make the dream possible.

A Chance to Make a Difference

Former NFL player Raequan Williams, who grew up playing in the youth program, believes that experiences like this can be life-changing for the kids. "It means everything, experiences like that. And I know it’s going to be life-changing for them too." Williams, a former defensive end for the Philadelphia Eagles, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Carolina Panthers, credits the program for providing an escape from a tough background.

Overcoming Adversity

The organization has faced its share of tragedy, losing three former players to gun violence in recent years. One boy’s mother, Ayesha Lewis, was shot and killed in 2022, and last year, a man was murdered outside one of their games in Blue Island. Coach Anderson believes that these experiences inspire him and his coaches to show the kids more than just a game. "Showing our young boys something different. Showing them what hard work and coming together does. Putting them in situations to be great."

Raising Funds for the Trip

So far, the team has raised just over $4,000, but they still need to raise around $26,000 to reach their goal. Click Here for more information on how you can donate to help get the team to Florida.

Conclusion

The 290 Elite 10U team is one step away from making their national championship dreams a reality, but they need the community’s help to get there. Every donation counts, and with the right support, these young athletes can make a difference not just in their own lives but also in the lives of those around them. Join the effort to help the 290 Elite 10U team reach their goal and make their dreams a reality.

FAQs

• How much money do they need to raise?
  • The team needs to raise around $30,000 to cover the costs of transportation, food, and accommodations for the 10-day trip.
• How much have they raised so far?
  • The team has raised just over $4,000 so far, leaving a remaining balance of around $26,000.
• How can I donate to help the team?
  • Click Here for more information on how to donate and support the 290 Elite 10U team.