Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc.

Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. (PWLS) is a nonprofit organization in the United States, dedicated to providing youth football, cheer, and dance programs. The organization caters to children aged five to 16, emphasizing not only athletic development but also academic achievement and personal growth.

History

Pop Warner Little Scholars was founded in 1929 by Joseph J. Tomlin, initially as the Junior Football Conference in Northeast Philadelphia. The program aimed to channel the energy of local youth into positive activities, following concerns about vandalism in the area. In 1933, the program became associated with legendary football coach Glenn "Pop" Warner, who participated in a spring clinic for the organization. By 1959, the organization was officially incorporated as a national nonprofit under the name Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc., to emphasize the importance of academics alongside sports.

Mission and Programs

The mission of Pop Warner Little Scholars is to provide a safe and structured environment where children can benefit from participating in team sports, while fostering values such as sportsmanship, scholarship, and physical fitness. The organization offers tackle football, flag football, cheerleading, and dance programs, with over 400,000 participants across the United States and several countries.

Participation and Age Divisions

Children participating in Pop Warner programs are placed in age and weight divisions:

• Tiny-Mite: Ages 5–7; weight 35–75 lbs
• Mitey-Mite: Ages 7–9; weight 45–100 lbs
• Jr. Pee Wee: Ages 8–10 (11); weight 60–115 lbs (60–95 lbs)
• Pee Wee: Ages 9–11 (12); weight 75–130 lbs (75–110 lbs)
• Junior Varsity: Ages 10–12 (13); weight 90–155 lbs (90–135 lbs)
• Varsity: Ages 12–14 (15); weight 105–180 lbs (105–160 lbs)
• Unlimited: Ages 11–14; weight 105+ lbs

Academic Requirements

To participate in Pop Warner programs, children must maintain a minimum 2.0 grade point average. Exceptions can be made if school administrators believe participation would be beneficial. Outstanding academic performance is recognized through the organization's Academic All-American program.

Safety and Health Initiatives

Pop Warner has faced controversy related to concussions and brain health. In response, the organization has implemented safety measures, including banning kickoffs in younger age groups and restricting younger players from using a three-point stance. The organization emphasizes reducing head hits and supports studies on the long-term effects of youth football.

Conferences and Competitions

Annual national championships for football and cheer are held at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex. The organization also conducts regional competitions throughout the year and offers various camps and training programs for its members.