Teaching youth fundamental skills, with drills emphasizing tackling, ball handling and passing, Santa Clara youth participated in a free 49ers Gatorade Youth Training Camp at Townsend Field July 29 and 30.
The event was organized by 49ers training staff and youth coordinators, including Tucker Baksa, with assistance from Santa Clara Lions staff. Over 100 boys and girls participated in each day’s activities.
Testing their athletic prowess, hand-eye coordination and attention to detail, the children participated in obstacles such as a running back drill where each child ran through a slalom-type course with various objects before plowing through a tackling dummy. Another station tested the youth’s ability at running routes – similar to the routes NFL receivers run – and catching balls while on the run. A quarterback station tested the young Joe Montana’s throwing accuracy, where they ran an “L” pattern before tossing the ball into a target. Another station assisted the young athletes in learning defensive techniques and aided in increasing their tackling abilities.
Prior to running the drills, youth were led in warm up techniques, stretching and how to stay hydrated. Lions Head Coach Craig Connelly and Peninsula Pop Warner Director Joe Tobia were both present and watched the youth enjoy the special training camps.
In addition to the Lions camp, a Gatorade Youth training camp was held at the Youth Activity Center on July 29. Additional camps have been held at various schools in Santa Clara as well.
About Santa Clara Lions
The Santa Clara Lions Pop Warner football club was founded in 1960. Dedicated coaches and friends built the program. It has become one of the most renowned programs in all of youth sports. Throughout Lions history, the main ideals and goals of the program have never been altered: “To build a program for the kids with the premise of maintaining a family oriented athletic program in the best interest of all the kids who participate.” Lions teams have won over 25 championships in their illustrious history.
The Lions football program is open to youth ages 7 through 15. Children are divided into age groups and weight categories to form five divisions; Mitey Cats, Jr. Pee Wee (Thundercats), Pee Wee (Panthers), Jr. Midget (Wildcats) and Midget (Lions).
For additional information on the Santa Clara Lions football and cheer programs visit http://www.sclionsfootball.org/.
About 49ers Youth Football Programs
The 49ers hold free football camps throughout the year, with 49ers Gatorade Jr. training camps offering children ages 7-14 the opportunity to learn football skills such as passing, ball carrying and tackling while also learning about proper hydration. The 49ers also host camps, coaching clinics and other seminars. For more information visit http://www.49ers.com/community/youth-football.html.