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Compete Beyond: The journey begins at the AYF National Championships

American Youth Football, aka the AYF, is one of the most prestigious youth football organizations in the country. Established in 1996, thousands of kids and future gridiron stars have gone through the process and competed in the AYF National Championships.

Taking place at the Austin-Tindall Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida, which just partnered with Kobe Bryant’s newly minted Mamba Sports Academy, youth football players all across the country will get to participate in clinics, meet pros and of course, compete in the National Championships.

We are following Compete Beyond as they document the journey for thousands of kids and 160 different teams competing in this year’s tournament. With four different divisions to play in and kids aged from 7 to 15, some of the top talent in the country will get to show off their skills as they prepare for the next level.

Chapter 1 features all of the teams during arrival day, coaches checking their kids in and even NFL legend Darnell Dockett talking about how difficult the journey has been to get these kids here. With many of these children being at the at-risk age to gangs and violence, AYF offers mentorship as much as it provides football. Per the official AYF site:

“To prepare youngsters to face the future with sportsmanship, teamwork, honesty, responsibility, self-discipline, positive aspirations, academic preparedness and confidence. If we teach them positive lessons, such as playing by the rules, our young athletes will learn to live by the rules.”

They also want to make sure football is all-inclusive no matter your background or situation. Their goal is:

“To make youth football and cheer ALL-INCLUSIVE, by not excluding participants based on superficial factors (such as weight, finances or athletic ability). To encourage programs for special needs, at-risk and anti-gang groups, as well as the international football community.”

Make sure you subscribe to Compete Beyond on YouTube and follow their journey as they showcase the next generation of athletic talent.