Their white jerseys gleaming in the sun and their brows dotted with sweat, local youth football players recently hit the gridiron to participate in the three-day full-contact camp held in Cortez. Beginning July 11 and running through July 13, the Southwest Camp allowed third- through sixth-grade players to experience the physicality of football and practice fundamentals. By the end of the three days, it was clear that players gained valuable skills that might one day translate into success at the high school, college or even professional level.
For a number of years, former Dolores High School Coach Steve Weir ran the Southwest Camp in Dolores. After being contacted by members of the Montezuma Titans youth football program, Weir elected to move his product to Cortez. Along with changing the camp scenery, camp organizers transitione the camp from non-contact to full contact.
To make the full-contact camp possible, organizers rented helmets and shoulder pads from the Young American Football League. The Montezuma Titans youth football program provided jerseys and other necessary equipment.
“The [Southwest Camp] is one of the only full-contact camps in the entire region,” said Montezuma Titans Youth Football president Kyle Lester. “A full contact camp is unique in that it gives campers the opportunity to go out and hit and become more physical.”
With increased physicality comes increased injury risks, but coaches worked hard to reduce those risks by emphasizing fundamentals and proper tackling technique.
“Coaches told us to not hit with our head straight,” said 12-year-old Austin McCoy. “If you do, you could break your neck or even die.”
First and foremost, the Southwest Camp was about exposing young players to the sport of football and laying the foundations for future success in the sport.
“It’s so important for these kids to get in shape in the offseason,” said Weir. “Nowadays, athletes have to practice year round if they are going to have success during the season.”
“It’s critical to teach the basic skills of football at a young age,” echoed Lester. “It’s a rare athlete that can start at the high school level and play at a high level.”
Ultimately, the Southwest Camp proved to be an educational and enjoyable experience for all involved. Made possible by the hard work and dedication of coaches, players and parents, camps such as the Southwest Camp are wonderful in that they lay the groundwork for future successes on the gridiron and in life.
imaclaren@cortezjournal.com