New Britain Youth Football & Cheer Inc. located in New Britain, 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.       

New Britain Youth Football & Cheer provides extensive pathways for young athletes to experience America’s favorite sport. The organization offers a flag football program for children ages four and five, a 7-on-7 limited contact program for ages six and seven and a tackle program at the 8-13U level.  

There are also cheerleading opportunities aimed to develop young athletes ages 4-7 before reaching competitive cheer at the 8-13U level.  

“I have been a part of the New Britain Youth Football and Cheer since its start in 2011. We have always strived for excellence in sports as well as academic performance,” said the program's Heriberto Rodriguez. “We pride ourselves in promoting a student-athlete approach with our children in the program and their families. New Britain Youth Football and Cheer is not just about the sports we offer. It’s about the foundation of family. We stress to our children that they are students first. The athlete part is secondary.” 

Rodriguez has spent nearly a decade and a half with New Britain Youth Football and Cheer, serving in multiple roles, including Football Director, Treasurer and as a coach. He spoke to USA Football about his inspiration for continuing to contribute to the organization.  

“What inspires me and our volunteers to continue to support this organization every year is our love for the game of football and our love for the children we serve in our program,” said Rodriguez. “For most of the people that volunteer, they have family members involved with the program. I love that I get to do what I love and have my family right beside me. New Britain Youth Football and Cheer has afforded me and my family the opportunity to give back to the city of New Britain.” 

The program’s impact extends beyond the gridiron to build a strong community and set an example for young athletes.  

“New Britain Youth Football and Cheer is very involved in the community and surrounding areas,” Rodriguez explained. “From our walks to support the Susan G. Komen Walk to the race in the park for cancer. We also take part in the walk for autism and collect canned goods during the holidays to donate to the Friendship Center of New Britain. We partner with other organizations to give winter coats, hats and toys during the Christmas season. Our families enjoy giving back to the community and encourage our athletes to do the same.” 

New Britain Youth Football and Cheer has taken advantage of opportunities provided by USA Football outside of the League Excellence Program, including USA Football’s extensive grants program.  

“New Britain Youth Football and Cheer has received numerous grants from USA football for equipment and our flag program,” Rodriguez said. “The grants make it possible to add more equipment to our program. As we all know, equipment is expensive, so grants make it possible to help youth organizations with this expense. New Britain Youth Football and Cheer values our relationship with USA Football and looks forward to continuing to build our program with USA Football for years to come.” 

Congratulations to New Britain Youth Football & Cheer Inc. on another successful year and for earning Gold Level status.