Jeff Melvin has always been passionate about Pop Warner football.
He embraces what the organization stands for. He believes in helping the community. And he relishes the chance to help shape young kids' lives.
Really, it's a combination of many of the principles touted by USA Football.
"It feels really good to work with kids and do what you can do for them," said Melvin, president of the Delmar (Del.) Wildcats program. "My son is entering his last season in the league and I've coached in Pop Warner for a long time. To get the chance to work with these kids and show them the right path is worth everything that we do."
Melvin is certainly busy these days in his first year as president of the Wildcats. On top of all his Pop Warner duties, he was dealing in recent weeks with his wife's expected delivery of their second child.
"I'm kind of taking things day by day, trying to get as much done as possible," Melvin said. "It's an exciting time for me. I couldn't ask for anything more. I'm very lucky. It is hectic, though. When the baby is born, there will be a lot to juggle. I'll get everything done."
Delmar features about 160 kids in the program - about 80 in both football and cheerleading. Melvin talks to the kids about academics long before they participate on the field.
"Oh yes, scholastics are very important," Melvin said. "We have a scholastics chairperson who helps out. We get report cards from the kids before they play. They know they need a certain grade-point average to participate. The kids have done a great job working in the classroom. We emphasize academics all season. If a kid needs help, we're there to find a way to help him."
Sometimes, it takes a guest speaker to give extra motivation to the kids. At times, Melvin has asked players from the Delmar High School football team to work with the kids.
"I've found that when the high school players have come out, the kids really perk up and listen," Melvin said. "Maybe mom or dad will say something and they'll hear it, but if a player from Delmar High says it, the kids will really pay attention because they look up to the high school players. It's where they want to be down the road, playing big-time high school football.
"Anything we can do to continually get the message across to the kids, we're going to try and do it. It's been successful in the past because of the bond between the high school kids and our kids."
Since the season is about to get underway, Melvin still has a lot to accomplish. With such a strong group of volunteers and board members, the job isn't nearly as taxing.
"We've actually had to turn a few volunteers away because we have so many," Melvin said. "The volunteers we have are great. They just get the job done. It helps me out so much. They all care so much just like our coaches. In youth sports, that's even more important. The commitment you have to have to make is a big one and the volunteers, board members and coaches we have are just the best."
All of which is why Melvin has been a longtime coach, and now president.
"I love what I do," he said. "I love the program and the kids. It's been so much fun coaching my son and being a part of his life in this way. With my second child due, it's even better. I'm truly blessed."
Story courtesy of Red Line Editorial, Inc.