Last night was one of those feel-good moments that remind you why NIL can be such a force for good. CougConnect helped organize a free youth football camp in Salem, Utah—and it was a blast.
Over 250 kids showed up. The energy was awesome. Parents lined the field, kids sprinted through drills, and BYU players were all over the place running stations, coaching, signing autographs, and snapping pictures. The players stayed until every last kid got their ball, shirt, or hat signed.
This was the kind of event that leaves an impact on everyone involved.
“Working with the youth is one of the greatest blessings from being in the position I am today,” said Enoch Nawahine. “What an amazing opportunity it was to work with the kids and better their craft not only on the field but off the field through words of wisdom. Their energy is contagious and I hope they continue to strive to be better young men each and every day.”
The camp was free for all participants. The drills were legit—plenty of skill work for QBs, linemen, receivers, and defenders. There were even tackling dummies and agility cones set up to make things feel like a real practice. And the best part? Every one of the BYU players out there wanted to be there.
“Yeah for sure! It was really fun working with all the kids and getting in some skill work with the QBs,” said McCae Hillstead. “I remember being that age and just wanting to get better any way I could, so I’m always passionate about passing on the things I’ve learned. Glad I came out for it!”
“It’s good working with all the different age groups,” added Iki Tupou. “It’s always fun to give back and help hopefully influence the kids to grow up and play at the next level like us 👍.”
There was also a team huddle moment where the players shared advice and encouragement with the campers. A few of the guys shared personal stories, and a lot of the messages were centered on being a great teammate, working hard in school, and showing love to your family.
“Working with kids is always something I look forward to doing,” said Tre Alexander III. “Genesis 12:2 talks about how God made us a blessing so we shall be a blessing to others—and I hold that true and dearly.”
We also loved what Matthias Leach shared:
“It was fun to see the little things I was coaching them up on change throughout the camp.”
And of course, Justin Kirkland brought the vibes:
“I think I had more fun than the kids did! Big shoutout to the parents—your kids are phenomenal. And to the little athletes, you guys are awesome! Thanks for letting me hang out and be a part of it. Go Cougs, baby!”
Why It Mattered
CougConnect funded this entire event through subscriber support. Your subscriptions directly paid for player appearances and NIL opportunities. This isn’t just content or Q&As—this is real impact. Kids left the field with memories, motivation, and maybe a new favorite BYU player.
And it’s not just us who think this is a big deal. Coach Kalani Sitake has talked about how a similar camp impacted his life when he was young. These events matter.
Want to help us keep doing more of this?
👉 Join CougConnect today. Subscriptions start at $9.99/month. You get access to insider updates, Q&As, and exclusive content—but you also make events like this possible.
