The Oakville Watertown Youth Athletic Association located in Watertown, Conn., has earned Gold Level status through USA Football’s League Excellence Program for the 2024 season.  

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

The Oakville Watertown Youth Athletic Association offers an opportunity for kids ages 5-13 to participate in both flag and tackle football. With five divisions, every young athlete can find their place. The primary goal of the association is to provide a safe environment for each athlete while continuing to find unique ways to have fun.  

Association President Matt Geer explained one of the ways the organization provides unique opportunities and ensures a fun experience for athletes is by incorporating a tunnel entrance at every home game. This thoughtful approach, sponsored by local businesses, helps athletes get excited for game day.  

Geer also highlighted the dedication of the association’s board members and volunteers, who are committed to fostering a positive and supportive atmosphere for each athlete. The association relies on these passionate volunteers to run the program and build a strong sense of family and community.  

“Providing an opportunity for our athletes to participate in the game of football and witnessing the smiles on their faces are the driving forces for each one of our volunteers,” Geer said. “Our athletes work hard in practice, but the bond they are forming with the other athletes on their respective teams is a brotherhood that they will remember forever.” 

The association’s volunteers aren’t just focused on creating a great experience for the kids; they’re also committed to supporting one another.  

“The community we have built here is bigger than football,” Geer said. “Football is more than just a game and our athletes realize that quickly when participating in our organization.”  

When a family is struggling, the entire Watertown youth football community rallies together to offer support, proving their camaraderie extends far beyond the field.  

 The association has been a member of the League Excellence Program since 2021, but 2024 is its first year reaching Gold Level.    

“USA Football’s League Excellence Program allows our program to be recognized for our hard work and commitment to maintaining high operational standards and providing a great environment for our athletes and their families,” said Geer. “The recognition of being named a Gold Level program is instrumental in being able to highlight to our current families, as well as prospective families, that our organization prioritizes the safety of our athletes, always. That means a lot to us as player safety is paramount!” 

Congratulations to the Oakville Watertown Youth Athletic Association on another successful year and for earning Gold Level status.