Through a partnership with Bears Care, the charitable arm of the Chicago Bears, four BGCC Clubs participated in a flag football program that taught middle-school-aged Club members the basics of football and teamwork. They practiced at their Clubs several times a week, learning drills and rules of the game. 

Their hard work culminated in a one-day tournament at the Chicago Indoor Sports complex.  

After launching in 2019, the program returned this fall and was a huge hit with BGCC kids. One Club member, Arthur, said he was excited to play with his teammates against other teams after weeks of hard practices.  

"It means a lot, yeah, to be able to show off our Club,” 13-year-old Arthur said. “I thought it was fun and I just love football.” 

Pedersen-McCormick Club went 3-0 and won the championship. But winning wasn’t the only thing that mattered – it was the chance to play a real game against other teams. 

“A lot of my teammates never played before, so it was for them to have the experience and they did great,” said Valentine Club member Kharon, 12. "So, next year we’re coming back stronger and harder and we’re going to win that championship.” 

The kids were not the only ones who learned new things through the program. Pedersen-McCormick Club coach Brenton Adams said it was one of the best programs he has been a part of at the Club. 

“I learned how to be a better leader, how to be a better listener,” Adams said. “It’s definitely a learning experience, every single day. I love being with the kids.”