The NFL is expanding its commitment to supporting grassroots football in Canada, launching a new contest to provide $25,000 worth of funding to three community-level youth tackle or flag football teams across the country.
The NFL Forward Pass program is designed to support amateur football while removing financial barriers so that more families can participate. Players, coaches, officials or community members are encouraged to enter the contest by sharing what impact the funding could have on their football program via an official submission form found here.
“We’re thrilled about the all-new NFL Forward Pass program,” NFL Canada’s director of marketing and fan engagement Tara Chetkowski said in a statement. “Community football programs rally local fans and inspire character, leadership, resiliency and teamwork. We see these values every time we visit football communities in Canada, and are looking forward to contributing to the growth of these important programs.”
Nominations will be reviewed by Football Canada and the corresponding provincial sports organizations before three winners are selected — one from Western Canada, one from Ontario, and one from Quebec or Eastern Canada. In addition to the $25,000 donation, the winning programs will receive an on-the-ground visit from the NFL, including a tailgate and giveaways.
The deadline to apply for funding is December 31, 2024.
Additionally, NFL Canada has announced the return of its Way to Play initiative for a fourth season to reinforce good technique among players at the Canadian high school and CEGEP levels.
Players or their supporters are asked to submit videos of plays demonstrating proper tackling, blocking, footwork, discipline or vision through the official submission form here. Every week until November 17, one submitted video will be chosen and featured on TSN.ca, as well as in a special segment during the NFL broadcast live on CTV. The winner’s school will also receive a $3,000 equipment grant through Football Canada.
“This is the fourth year of NFL Way to Play, and it has already contributed $90,000 directly into our high school and CEGEP football programs,” Football Canada executive director Kevin McDonald said as part of the announcement. “Being recognized by the NFL during broadcasts is a tremendous thrill for the players, and we want to spread the word to all high school and CEGEP programs about this amazing opportunity to give their teams a boost. All it takes is one uploaded video.”
Week 4 of the NFL season will kick off on Thursday, September 26 at 8:15 p.m. EDT when the Dallas Cowboys (1-2) visit the New York Giants (1-2).
