Delaware, Ohio · 100% Volunteer-Run Nonprofit

More Than
a Game.

The story behind Jr Pacers — who we are, what we stand for, how we run ourselves, and how you can get involved.

Jr Pacers athletes on the field
Who We Are

Our Mission

To support and sustain youth football and cheer through responsible governance, volunteer leadership, and community-driven fundraising. We want every athlete to build teamwork, grow confidence, and learn what it means to compete with character.

Jr Pacers is a 100% volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit, EIN 88-3809026. No board member or coach receives compensation. Every dollar raised goes directly to programs, fields, equipment, and keeping registration costs low.

2022Founded
190+Athletes at our peak
100%Volunteer-run
501(c)(3)Every dollar to the kids
What We Stand For

Our Core Values

These seven values guide every decision we make — in practice, on game day, and in how we treat each other.

Servant Leadership

"Servant Leaders consciously put the needs of others before their own, because to serve people is to value them."

Teamwork Through Trust

"Diversity is strength. When we trust and respect one another, we can work as a team and achieve at a high level."

Integrity

"Being honest and transparent in an effort to do the right thing — within the letter and spirit of the law — drives every action we take."

Commitment to Player Enthusiasm

"Every day we recommit ourselves to the player experience, and we are empowered to exceed expectations."

Passion for Winning

"Our value of winning is based on striving to be the best, not the winningest — defined by how we treat our team, our opponents, and others."

Accountability at All Levels

"Taking ownership of our actions and decisions allows us to grow as individuals and support each other as a team."

Commitment to Continuous Improvement

"Every day we soften our hearts as well as our egos, in order to seek out and improve upon areas of opportunity within ourselves and our team."

Leadership

Board & Governance

Jr Pacers is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and Class Representatives. Every decision is made in the best interest of our athletes and families.

Officer Roles

President
Chairs board meetings, oversees operations, serves as primary representative of the organization.
Vice President
Supports the President, steps in as needed, oversees volunteer coordination.
Treasurer
Manages accounts, maintains financial records, presents the budget for annual vote.
Secretary
Records meeting minutes, handles correspondence, confirms meeting logistics.

How the Board Operates

  • Monthly meetings — second Wednesday of each month. All active members in good standing are welcome. Contact the Board Secretary to confirm time and location.
  • Voting — each board member and Class Representative holds one vote. Decisions require a two-thirds majority.
  • Formal votes required for: annual budget approval, expenditures over $300 outside the approved budget, officer elections, and fundraising-event approval.
  • Class Representatives serve alongside officers, bringing the perspective of each team's families directly to the board.

Governing documents are available to families. Our Bylaws, IRS 501(c)(3) Determination Letter, and Ohio Certificate are on file. Contact us for copies.

Standards

Code of Conduct

These expectations apply to everyone in the Jr Pacers community: coaches, parents, players, and cheerleaders. Respect is non-negotiable.

Universal Standards — Everyone

Respect comes first — every person, every role, every time.
Sportsmanship matters — how you win and lose says everything.
Safety is non-negotiable — physical and emotional safety for every athlete.
Zero tolerance for bullying, harassment, intimidation, or inappropriate language and conduct.
Support a positive environment — your energy sets the tone for the kids watching.
No negative public or social media commentary about players, coaches, officials, or the organization.

Parents & Guardians

  • Cheer positively. No sideline coaching or second-guessing play calls.
  • Respect officials' decisions. Disagreements go through proper channels.
  • Cool off before addressing issues. Communicate calmly and directly.
  • Bring concerns to a coach or board member, never to officials on the field.

Football Players

  • Compete hard and play within the rules.
  • Respect teammates, opponents, coaches, and officials at all times.
  • Accept coaching and feedback with a growth mindset.
  • Represent Jr Pacers with class before, during, and after every game.

Cheerleaders

  • Support your team and show respect to opposing cheerleaders.
  • Demonstrate discipline and teamwork at every practice and event.
  • Represent the Jr Pacers cheer program with pride and positivity.
  • Follow coach direction. Raise concerns privately and respectfully.

Coaches & Staff

  • Model the values we ask of every athlete, every day.
  • Put player development and safety ahead of outcomes.
  • Communicate proactively and treat every family with respect.
  • Escalate conduct concerns through the board, not publicly.

Consequences escalate. A conduct violation is addressed progressively: verbal warning, removal from the game or event, suspension, and further action as determined by the board. Severe violations may skip steps. The board has final authority on all conduct matters.

Where We Play

Our Fields

From weekday practices to Friday night lights, here is where you will find us.

Practice

Smith Park — Troy Road

Our practice home is Smith Park on Troy Road, just north of Dempsey Middle School in Delaware, OH. Weekday practices are held here throughout the season.

Get Directions
Game Day

Delaware High School Stadium

Home games are played at the Delaware High School football stadium in partnership with the schools. Concessions are open at all home games — come hungry and support the program.

Get Directions
Get Involved

It Takes More Than Coaches

This program runs on parents. And here is the part most people miss: you do not need to know a single thing about football to make a difference.

We need people to coordinate events, run the chains on game day, hand out water, staff the concession stand, welcome new families, or just be present. Got a truck? Help us haul equipment to the parade or pickup day. Have a few hours? We have a spot for you.

Seriously, any skill counts. Organized? Great. Friendly? Perfect. Good at folding a table and loading a van? You are hired.

Email Us to Help
  • Coordinate an event or fundraiser
  • Run the chains or the scoreboard on game day
  • Help in the concession stand
  • Welcome new families and answer questions
  • Lend a truck for the parade or equipment pickup
  • Show up and cheer the right way
Affordability

No Child Left Out

Jr Pacers offers some of the lowest registration fees in our league. We never want cost to be the reason a kid sits out.

Need-based scholarships are available and completely confidential. Applications are reviewed by the board based on demonstrated need and the athlete's effort to contribute to the program. We encourage athletes to participate in fundraising first, and the board will work with every family to find a path forward.

To inquire about a scholarship, reach out directly and privately: Chris@jrpacersfootball.com. Your conversation stays between you and the board.

Our Commitment

Every Kid Who Wants to Play, Can.

Lowest fees in the league. Need-based scholarships available. Fundraising paths that help offset costs. We built the program around access, not just athletics.

Ask Confidentially
Reach Out

We're Here

Questions about registration, volunteering, coaching, or anything else — just ask.