Why Wildcats??
The Manatee Wildcats are one of the longest running youth football programs in the area. Founded by Dr. Charles Tomeo in 1986, the Manatee Wildcats are proud members of the Pop Warner Little Scholars and the Foundation for Youth Development Conference.
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The Manatee Wildcats are dedicated to providing fun athletic learning opportunities for children, while emphasizing the importance of academic success.
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Pop Warner programs have no tryouts or cutting of rosters.
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Everyone participates under mandatory rules of play. On-field coaching is allowed for younger age levels.
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Individual awards are given only for academic excellence, not for on-field activities. Players are matched by age and weight levels. There are strict mandatory equipment requirements.
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Pop Warner provides Coaching Clinics and Risk Management Training.
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Mandatory background checks for Coaches, Board of Directors members and any other persons, volunteers or hired workers, who have repetitive access to, or contact with participants.
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At $300, Manatee Wildcats is one of the most affordable youth sports program in the area. NO FUNDRAISING REQUIRED!
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Concussion Prevention & Awareness. Pop Warner has one of the more stringent return to play policies in the nation. Pop Warner has instituted a proactive policies regarding practice & concussion prevention.
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Safety. Pop Warner football has 12% fewer injuries per capita among 5-15 year olds than organized soccer in the same age range.
What’s Included?
Manatee Wildcats provide the following:
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Use of equipment for entire season includes:
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Helmet
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Shoulder Pads
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Mouth Piece
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Hip, Thigh, Knee, Tailbone Pads
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Game Uniform – Includes Jersey and Pants Official Manatee Wildcat practice shirt and shorts to keep.
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Practice jersey, pants, one mouthpiece and girdle to keep
What Do I HaveTo Provide?
Each Player is expected to provide their own Cleats, Socks, and additional padding or equipment not listed above.
Volunteer:
Each family is REQUIRED to work in the concession stand, team store or gate for ½ of one or two home games. The team mom will be responsible for scheduling and will do so at the start of season.
Transportation:
Each player is responsible for ensuring they have adequate transportation to all events. Players/parents should make any transportation arrangements to practice, games and competition well in advance and not wait until the last minute.
Fund Raiser:
THERE IS NO MANDATORY FUNDRAISING!.
All Practices are held at GT Bray.
Players are responsible for bringing at least a 1 gallon of water to each practice