Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc.

Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting youth football, cheer, and dance programs across the United States. Founded in 1929 by Joseph J. Tomlin, the organization emphasizes the dual importance of athletics and academic excellence.

History

The origins of Pop Warner date back to 1929, when factory owners in Northeast Philadelphia faced issues with local youth vandalism. Tomlin, a stockbroker and athlete, was approached to create a youth sports program. Initially, he established a four-team Junior Football Conference, commuting from New York City to organize the program during his weekends. After the stock market crash of 1929, Tomlin devoted his full attention to the youth program. The organization grew rapidly, with Glenn Scobie "Pop" Warner, a renowned football coach, becoming involved in 1933. The conference was named after him due to his influence and commitment to young athletes. Pop Warner Little Scholars was officially incorporated as a national nonprofit in 1959.

Programs and Activities

Pop Warner offers a variety of programs for children aged five to sixteen:

• Football: The organization includes both tackle and flag football leagues, structured around age and weight divisions. These programs emphasize safety and participation.
• Cheer and Dance: Introduced in the 1970s, these programs have grown to include traditional cheerleading, pom squads, majorettes, and pep squads.
• Academic Programs: Pop Warner emphasizes academic achievement alongside sports participation. Students must maintain at least a 2.0 grade point average to participate. The organization annually recognizes outstanding students through its Academic All-American Scholar program.

Mission and Values

The mission of Pop Warner is to provide children with a safe and structured environment to participate in team sports while promoting fundamental values such as sportsmanship, scholarship, and physical fitness. The organization strives to develop well-rounded individuals by fostering a balance between athletic and academic pursuits.

Impact and Participation

Pop Warner is one of the largest and most recognized youth sports organizations in the world. Over 400,000 participants engage in its programs across more than 40 states and several countries. The organization's annual national championships for football and cheerleading are held at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex in Florida.

Governance

Pop Warner operates with a significant volunteer base, including coaches and administrators, to support its extensive network of youth sports teams. Its governance is overseen by a Board of Directors comprised of community advocates and sports industry professionals.

Legacy

Pop Warner Little Scholars has been acclaimed for its comprehensive approach to youth development, emphasizing both physical activity and academic achievement. The organization's philosophy of integrating sports and education has made it a model for youth sports programs worldwide.