With our first Youth Football Online Organization Feature we are featuring the Oswego Youth Tackle Football Organization. The Panthers are a youth football great program base in Illinois. After doing the interview with Coach Eric is was clear that he has passion for coaching football. He loves his organization and all of the players that participate.
YFO Featured Organization: Oswego Youth Tackle Football
Tell us about yourself.
My name is Eric Patnodes, athletic director at Oswego Youth Tackle Football. This season will be my fourth year as a head coach but I’ve coached various youth sports for the last 10 years.
Tell us about your organization.
Oswego Youth Tackle Football is a 100% volunteer based organization located in Oswego, Illinois, and serves the local community of 36K residents. We have a rich history, deeply rooted in the Oswego community celebrating 45 years of youth football in the 2024 season. OYTF represents not just a sports program but a legacy of community effort, growth, and resilience. We are one of the largest youth football organizations in Illinois serving roughly 550 participants between our football and cheer programs.
What is your organization’s mission statement/goals?
Our mission is to nurture and develop our players, equipping them with essential skills, values, and attitudes that transcend the football field and enrich their lives. We focus not only on honing football abilities but also on instilling fundamental values such as teamwork, sportsmanship, and integrity. Our goal is to provide a safe, enjoyable environment where players can both excel in the sport and forge lifelong friendships. We emphasize the importance of leadership, both on the field and in daily life, encouraging our athletes to consistently make good choices and contribute positively to our community. Together, we’re dedicated to creating a lasting, beneficial impact, motivating everyone to achieve their highest potential.
What can parents expect if they sign their child up for football?
Parents can expect a comprehensive, enriching experience for their child. Beyond learning the technical aspects of football, children in our program gain life skills such as teamwork, perseverance, and leadership. They’ll be part of a supportive community that values safety, fun, and personal development just as much as athletic achievement.
How well are your coaches trained?
Our coaches are required to obtain the USA Football coaches certification every season, ensuring that they are well-equipped to provide quality instruction and guidance. They undergo rigorous training and certification processes, including safety protocols, to ensure that they are not only adept in football techniques but also in fostering a safe and positive environment for all players.
If you could give one piece of advice to other youth football organizations, what would it be?
My advice would be to always prioritize the holistic development of your players. While the technical skills of football are important, it’s crucial to remember that we are shaping young individuals. Focus on building their character, confidence, and teamwork skills. When you make the well-being and overall growth of your athlete’s your top priority, success on and off the field naturally follows. Most importantly, the truest measure of a successful youth football program is by the number of kids to return the following year, not by wins, losses, or championships.
What are the benefits of playing tackle football for young athletes?
- Physical Fitness and Health: Tackle football is a physically demanding sport that helps players improve their overall fitness. It enhances cardiovascular health, builds muscle strength, improves coordination and agility, and promotes endurance. Regular participation in tackle football can lead to a healthier lifestyle and encourage lifelong fitness habits.
- Teamwork and Social Skills: Football is a team sport that requires players to work closely together to achieve a common goal. This environment fosters teamwork, communication, and leadership skills. Players learn to trust and depend on each other, understand different roles within a team, and develop a sense of camaraderie and friendship with their teammates.
- Resilience and Discipline: Tackle football teaches players how to handle physical and emotional challenges. The sport demands a high level of discipline, both in terms of following rules and in committing to regular practice and training. Players learn to cope with setbacks and losses, building resilience and the ability to bounce back from difficulties. This mental toughness and discipline can be beneficial in many areas of life, beyond the football field.
Here are YFO, we are for the promotion and instruction of youth football. We will feature only the best youth football program across the country (doing it the right way)! If you are interested in featuring your organization on Youth Football Online, shoot us an email- youthfootballonline@gmail.com