George Fox Youth Football Camp Builds Character for 50+ Years

The Rich History of George Fox Youth Football Camp

For over 50 years, the George Fox Youth Football Camp has been a staple in our community. Established in 1968 by local football coach and teacher George Fox, the camp aims to instill discipline, teamwork, and a love of the game in kids ages 8-14 during their summer break.

Coach Fox's Vision

An accomplished football player himself in high school and college, George Fox returned to his hometown after graduation with a passion to give back to local youth. As a teacher at the middle school, Fox witnessed firsthand the unstructured summer months that left kids bored and listless. He dreamed up the football camp as a way to keep young teens active, engaged, and learning valuable life skills.

Fox rallied a team of fellow coaches, players, and football enthusiasts to volunteer their time at the camp. The first year saw 50 boys enroll, using the vacant lot behind the high school as their field. Word spread quickly about the transforming experience the camp provided.

Growth & Development

Over the next decade, enrollment at George Fox Youth Football Camp ballooned to over 200 campers annually. The camp outgrew the vacant lot and moved to leased space at the community college's football stadium. This allowed for multiple fields, sturdy goalposts, concessions, and bathrooms.

The growing camp also required more structure and full-time employees instead of just volunteers. Coach Fox retired from teaching to run the camp year-round. He brought on five full-time counselors - typically college and high school players - to assist. The American Youth Football League officially sponsored the camp.

Bringing Out the Best

Under Coach Fox's continued leadership for over 30 years, the George Fox Youth Football Camp established a reputation for bringing out the absolute best in every player. Campers learn skills and strategies from experienced coaches while also developing self-confidence, discipline, and teamwork.

The daily schedule includes position training, weightlifting sessions, film review, chalk talks, competition between teams, and skills contests. Special guest speakers like famous college and pro players inspire campers to succeed on and off the field.

What Sets George Fox Football Camp Apart

Of course, many youth football camps promise to transform kids' athletic capabilities and character. So what makes the George Fox camp so special after over 50 years? A few standout qualities stem from Coach Fox's initial vision.

Passionate Staff

Every coach and counselor - both paid full-timers and seasonal volunteers - genuinely cares about positively impacting kids. Applicants must show commitment to being exemplary role models. The contagious passion of the George Fox staff makes campers feel supported in achieving their full potential.

All-Inclusive Environment

George Fox welcomed kids from all backgrounds, races, creeds, and skill levels from the start in 1968. He built an environment centered on hard work rather than natural talents. Boys who never imagined they could play football find their inner athlete. Lifelong friendships form through open-armed camaraderie.

Emphasis on Teamwork

The George Fox coaching staff emphasizes selflessness, collaboration, and the importance of team over individual success. Players learn each role on the team depends equally on the others. On and off the field, campers support their teammates as brothers.

The Future Looks Bright

Even over 50 years since its grassroots founding, enthusiasm for the George Fox Youth Football Camp shows no signs of waning. Coach Fox's son took over directing operations in 1999, continuing the legacy his father started. Generations of hometown players now enroll their own kids to pass on enduring life lessons.

The camp rolls out strategic improvements like certified athletic trainers, videotaping of games for replay analysis, and innovative equipment. Yet the core vision remains the same - to mold strong leaders, teammates, and citizens through the transformative power of discipline and fellowship.

FAQs

What are the dates for this year's George Fox Football Camp?

The 2023 camp kicks off with check-in day on June 15th. Campers participate in daily activities from June 16th through July 1st, with a graduation ceremony on July 2nd. Parents are encouraged to attend the ceremony on the last day!

How much does the camp cost to attend?

Tuition for the full 2 weeks is $550 per camper. This includes all instruction, facilities, amenities, and camp memorabilia. Multi-child discounts are available, and scholarships are offered based on financial need.

What makes the coaching staff special?

Our passionate coaching staff includes the camp director, 5 full-time counselors, and over a dozen volunteers. All have either played football themselves or have extensive experience positively impacting kids' lives through sports.

Should my son attend if he’s never played football before?

Absolutely! The George Fox camp welcomes both rookie players and experienced athletes at all skill levels. Our patient coaches teach the fundamentals while fostering friendships that encourage beginning players.

Are the camp facilities and amenities up to date?

Yes, we pride ourselves on continuous improvement every year at our fully-equipped complex. Upgrades in recent years include certified trainers, video equipment, innovative gear, modern weights, and advanced drills.