The Carolina Panthers, Charlotte FC, and the YMCA of Greater Charlotte have announced a new partnership aimed at expanding youth sports opportunities in the region. The initiative will focus on increasing access to flag football and soccer for children through a range of community-based programs, camps, and other activities.
Kristi Coleman, Chief Executive Officer of Tepper Sports & Entertainment and President of the Carolina Panthers, stated, “We are thrilled to join forces with the YMCA of Greater Charlotte to give more kids in our community the chance to get outside and play flag football and soccer. This partnership will allow us to open new doors so that even more kids have the opportunity to participate in playing team sports.”
As part of this collaboration, the YMCA of Greater Charlotte will make Panthers NFL Flag football its official youth flag football program. The goal is to enhance young athletes’ experiences by providing better access to foundational football skills and organized competition. Registration for the fall season is now available at https://www.ymcacharlotte.org/sports, with practices set to begin during the week of September 2.
Participants in the Panthers NFL Flag league will receive official team jerseys, take part in exclusive game day events hosted by the Panthers, and have chances to compete in NFL Flag tournaments.
Charlotte FC plans to bring its experience from four years of youth soccer camps and clinics into this partnership. The club’s professional coaching staff will work with YMCA leaders to deliver skill-based training programs for players at all levels. This approach aims to give young athletes exposure to Charlotte FC’s development methods while helping them understand what it takes to advance in competitive soccer.
Sue Glass, President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Charlotte, said, “We’re proud to team up with the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC to expand opportunities for young people to grow, thrive and become healthy, confident leaders through the power of youth sports. At the YMCA, we believe in the power of partnerships to expand access, build character, create meaningful connections and lasting impact. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to investing in kids, families and the future of our community.”
More details about upcoming flag football or soccer programming can be found at https://www.ymcacharlotte.org/sports.
