Elmwood High leads Blue Bomber Youth Football Initiative

Elmwood

Last year, the Blue Bomber Youth Football Initiative, led by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, launched a pilot program delivered last year at Elmwood High School. The Elmwood program, aimed at reducing barriers and strengthening opportunities for youth, was a resounding success demonstrating strong participation, helping students build confidence, improve school attendance, and connect with positive mentors through sport.

On June 22, the Manitoba government announced its additional funding of $180,000 to support the expansion of this program for youth in Winnipeg to three additional schools.

“We launched our pilot program at Elmwood High School and witnessed firsthand what football can do for a community and a school. For more than 85 per cent of those kids, it was their first time on a field,” said Wade Miller, president and CEO, Winnipeg Football Club. “This year, with the support of the Manitoba government, we’re taking that model and bringing it to two new schools across Winnipeg. The Manitoba government’s investment is a direct investment in Manitoba youth and we’re grateful for their support in helping young people develop lifelong skills: resilience, teamwork, and grit. The Winnipeg Football Club is more than what happens at Princess Auto Stadium. It’s about building something meaningful in this community, and programs like this are how we live that commitment.”

Organized football has financial and logistical barriers for most young people. By covering registration, equipment, coaching, and transportation costs, we are ensuring youth participation at no cost to families.

The expansion of this initiative will provide up to 120 youth, including boys and girls aged 13 to 14, with access to structured sport programming and mentorship during a critical stage of development. These are key government priorities, including youth engagement, community wellness, reconciliation, and crime prevention. Moreover, the structured football training dovetails magnificently with mentorship, life skills development, and community support.

The Winnipeg Football Club leverages its existing coaching network and infrastructure to deliver this innovative program efficiently, ensuring resources are meaningfully directed to front-line supports and participation.

Programs like this help young people build confidence, develop life skills, and instill in them a powerful sense of belonging to our community.

Feel free to contact me at 204-415-1122 or email me at Jim.Maloway@yourmanitoba.ca