NFL Canada’s Forward Pass program is back for a second year, providing three community football programs a $25,000 boost to help more kids play tackle or flag football.
Coaches, players and community members are invited to nominate their program, sharing how a $25,000 grant from the NFL can remove barriers encouraging more participation. Last season, three recipients were chosen from Western Canada, Ontario, Quebec and Eastern Canada to receive funding to grow the game in their local communities.
Each NFL Forward Pass grant will also include an on-the-ground visit from the NFL, including a tailgate, a cheque presentation and giveaways.
“We’re excited to bring back the NFL Forward Pass program for a second year,” NFL Canada general manager Gavin Kemp said in a statement. “Our goal is to continue investing in the growth of football in Canada and help remove barriers, making the sport more accessible to youth across the country.”
Last year’s Western Canada recipient, the North Winnipeg Nomads Football Club, used their grant to expand access to the sport and ensure more young athletes could participate regardless of financial barriers.
“There are so many ways this grant has helped the North Winnipeg Nomads flourish,” North Winnipeg Nomads president Stacey Keown said in a statement. “The club provides out of pocket expenses replacing football equipment and covering fees for those who cannot afford them. We have upgraded our field, hosted more free camps and provided even more opportunities across the board.”
Through NFL Forward Pass and NFL Way to Play, which awards one Canadian high school or CEGEP tackle football program a $3,000 equipment grant through Football Canada during the first 10 weeks of the season, NFL Canada has invested more than $200,000 in Canadian grassroots football.
Canada’s NFL fan base is more than 15 million across the country, continuing to grow. The league is committed to growing the game at every level in Canada engaging with fans year-round through partners, programs and initiatives, including NFL Flag and community events. These initiatives give fans and athletes across the country more opportunities to come together and share in the excitement of football year-round.
Nominations for the NFL Forward Pass will be accepted on the program’s website.
