Rockford Park District Celebrates Youth Athletes Participation in National Tournaments

The Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners, along with several elected officials, recognized roughly 55 athletes and coaches who recently represented the Rockford Park District at two of the largest national multi-sport events for youth in the nation.

The Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) Junior Olympic Games were held in Greensboro, NC from July 26, 2024, through August 3, 2024. Through regional, district, and national qualifiers, the AAU Junior Olympic Games saw approximately 14,000 participants, 35 of which represented the Rockford region.

In addition to the success of the local athletes, Rockford F.I.R.E. was named the 2024 Central District Club of the Year, and the 2024 Club of the Year in Zone C. Zone C includes the states of Michigan, Wisconsin, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Montana, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Minnesota, and Indiana. On top of both of those awards, Rockford F.I.R.E. also received the AAU Track and Field 2024 National Club of the Year award!

The Rockford Bears 15U flag football team was also recognized and celebrated at the Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners meeting. The team also recently competed at the NFL Flag Championships, showcasing their exceptional talent and determination on a national stage. The NFL Flag Championship took place at the Hall of Fame Village in Canton, Ohio July 18-21, 2024. Flag football has emerged as the world’s fastest-growing sport, and engages a diverse range of participants with its accessible format.

“These young athletes represented Rockford and the Chicago Bears with pride, and showed their dedication to the sport they love. Everyone who competed has exceptional athletic abilities, and these types of national tournaments force them to push boundaries, build character, and forge bonds that will last a lifetime,” said Lamont Jones, General Manager of Rockford Park District’s Clarence Hicks Memorial Sports Park and Youth Sports Outreach.