Mundelein Park & Recreation District has been selected as one of 10 park and recreation agencies to receive funding through a partnership between the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and Nike to increase access to youth sports for all.
According to a news release, the Increasing Access to Youth Sports Community of Practice initiative works to increase access to youth sports for all, ensuring that girls can fully experience the physical, mental, and social benefits that sports provide.
NRPA has committed to creating play opportunities for everyone and empowering local park and recreation agencies to lead the way in closing the gap for girls in youth sports, the release said. As a grantee, Mundelein Park & Recreation District will receive funding to launch a Girls Flag Football League for participants in kindergarten through third grade.
The park district will also participate in professional development opportunities and peer networking to implement strategies that increase access and participation in sports for girls in Mundelein and surrounding Lake County, the release said.
“Thanks to this wonderful opportunity from NRPA and Nike, we’re launching a Girls Flag Football League for girls in grades K–3 this spring,” Kyle Berg, Director of Recreation and Facilities of Mundelein Park & Recreation District, said in the release.”The goals are to create a fun, supportive, and equitable introduction to youth sports for families in Mundelein and surrounding Lake County communities, and to increase girls’ participation in youth sports and women’s representation in coaching.
“Grant funding will help cover equipment, uniforms, training for coaches and mentors, and address financial barriers to participation. Fifty percent financial assistance is offered for participants who qualify for Mundelein Parks Foundation’s recreational scholarship program.”
According to the release, the league will be led by volunteer coaches, with a focus on recruiting women and members of local high school flag football programs. All coaches will receive USA Football training and educational resources to ensure a positive experience for all.
Practices and games will take place at Keith Mione Community Park, the release said. A key part of the program is high school mentorship. High school girls will serve as role models and mentors, helping younger athletes build skills and confidence while also gaining leadership experience as future coaches and officials.
The league will be led by volunteer coaches, with a focus on recruiting women and members of local high school flag football programs. All coaches will receive USA Football training and educational resources to ensure a positive experience for all.
Practices and games will take place at Keith Mione Community Park. A key part of the program is high school mentorship. High school girls will serve as role models and mentors, helping younger athletes build skills and confidence while also gaining leadership experience as future coaches and officials.
For more information about the Girls Flag Football League, visit https://www.mundeleinparks.org/programs/youth-sports/flag-football/. Anyone interested in coaching should contact Patrick Teehan, Athletic Supervisor at pteehan@mundeleinparks.org.
