Former coaches, players revitalize Stuart Hornets youth football association

STUART, Fla., April 1, 2010 - Youth football is more than a game; it’s a sport that teaches fun- damental life skills.

When former players and coaches learned that the Stuart Hornets youth football program was dwindling financially and the 2010 season might be cancelled, they took a personal interest and decided to get involved – for the kids.

James Davis grew up in Stuart and began playing for the Hornets at an early age. He later went on to play for the Detroit Lions and New York Giants as an outside linebacker from 2003 to 2006.

“I started playing for the Hornets when I was 8 years old – it helped launch my career in the NFL,” said Davis. “Football teaches kids discipline, teamwork and communication. That’s why it is so important that this team succeeds for the kids in Stuart.”

Stephen Leighton, a former Hornet player, echoed that sentiment. “I couldn’t allow something that was so instrumental in my upbringing just slip away,” said Leighton, who lives and owns a small business in Stuart. “It has been a team effort and we plan to bring the Stuart Hornets back to their former glory.”

Part of the Pop Warner Treasure Coast Football Conference, the Stuart Hornets will play teams in Martin, St. Lucie and Palm Beach counties.

“There’s a longstanding interest in this community for Hornet football,” said Jeff Montpetit, recreation supervisor for the City of Stuart Recreation Department. “Everyone is thrilled that we’re going to bring it back, with the exception of opponents in neighboring leagues,” he added with a smile.

As a not-for-profit organization, the Stuart Hornets have been invited to participate in a Giving Day, an event organized by the Martin County Community Foundation. Between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Wednesday, April 7, donors may access the Giving Day page on the Martin County Community Foundation’s Web site, www.yourmccf.org, or call 1-877-GIV-MCCF (448-6223). The first $100,000 to be donated through the community foundation toward a specific non-profit will be doubled. This is a unique opportunity for donors to make a gift to the Stuart Hornets that will be matched.

The Stuart Hornets are in need of sponsorships and donations for uniforms, equipment and transportation in order to make this season a success. Football and cheerleading coaches, and various volunteer positions also need to be filled. Call (772) 260-3345 for more information.

“We’re calling upon past players,” said Leighton. “If they ever wanted to give back, now is the time to get involved, for the kids.”

Stuart Hornets football and cheerleading registration for children ages 5 to 12 is available at the 10^th Street Recreation Center, 724 S.E. 10^th Street in Stuart. Call (772) 288-5340 or (772) 260-3345 for more information.