The Lee’s Summit Youth Football Association located in Lee’s Summit, Missouri has earned Gold Level Status through USA Football’s  League Excellence Program for the 2021 season.

USA Football’s League Excellence Program is a way for youth football organizations to earn recognition for a commitment to raise operational standards and provide a great environment for athletes and their families. 

The club has set a high bar for both player safety and skill development amongst its membership thanks in part to great leadership within the organization. Vernon Woodin, in his sixth season with Lee’s Summit, has been a great contributor to the success of the club. The club had just over 1200 kids participating in the fall, playing three separate game types. Lee’s Summit introduced a new game type called “Hybrid Flag” this past season. 

“The games give the kids a better choice for development in their progression from flag to tackle.” Woodin said. 

Along with player development, the club has put a great emphasis on protecting their kids. 
 

“We’ve done a lot of things to make player development a priority, we’ve limited contact in our practices while pushing the fundamentals so that our kids are prepared for games.” Woodin added. “That along with the content that USA Football has provided for us makes everything a lot easier.” 

Coaching certification is also a primary factor in the success of Lee’s Summit, as all their coaches are required to be certified to step on the field. 

Lee’s Summit has also become a staple in the community through its burgeoning youth football program. 

“We pride ourselves on being involved with our local high schools.” Woodin said. “We also give thousands of kids the opportunity to play the sport we all love, and we take that very seriously.”