Contact
David Lockett
National Football League
(212) 450-2000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NFL SCHOLASTIC SPORTS PROGRAMS OFFER NEW WAYS
TO MAKE PHYSICAL EDUCATION FUN

Scholastic NFL Flag and Scholastic Punt, Pass and Kick
Provide Creative Curriculums That Teach Football Skills Through Exercise

NEW YORK, August 15 -- The National Football League has developed two curriculum-based programs that will help physical education teachers teach football skills while providing a fun way for students to enhance their coordination and level of physical fitness. This fall (September - October), Scholastic NFL Flag and Scholastic NFL Punt, Pass & Kick will each be taught to sixth through eighth grade students in 100 schools in selected cities around the country.

The NFL will provide school systems with the curriculum for each program at no cost. Because the program is non-contact, it requires minimal equipment and can be equally enjoyed by girls and boys.

"Our scholastic programs will provide a new way for physical education teachers to teach football in a fun and non-traditional manner," said Scott Lancaster, director of youth development for NFL Properties. "Each curriculum allows kids to develop basic skills that enable them to enjoy playing the football, even if they’ve never played before."

Both programs take approximately four weeks to complete and include skills tests that allow students to evaluate their own progress, as well as how they compare to their peers.

"Our ultimate goal is to have school systems throughout the country incorporate our scholastic programs into their physical education curriculum," Lancaster said. "We think teachers will find the programs to be a highly effective educational tool that will also help kids stay physically fit."

In 1997, Scholastic Punt, Pass & Kick will take place in 100 schools each in six cities, including New Orleans, San Diego, Tampa Bay, San Francisco, Atlanta and Minnesota. Scholastic NFL Flag will reach 100 schools in 12 markets, including Carolina, Arizona, Chicago, Miami, Kansas City, Philadelphia, Jacksonville, New England, Denver, Dallas, San Diego and Cincinnati.

Scholastic NFL Flag and Scholastic NFL Punt, Pass & Kick are part of the NFL’s "Play Football" initiative to provide innovative ways for children to play, watch and enjoy the game of football. Other "Play Football" programs include NFL Flag, presented by Nike; NFL C.I.T.Y. (Challenge and Inspire Today’s Youth) Football; NFL Gatorade Punt, Pass & Kick; Starter NFL Youth Training Camps; and Kmart NFL Family/Stadium Days.