Youth Camps Organized by the Tennessee Titans Staff

Each year, the Tennessee Titans staff—including coaches, players, and athletic trainers—steps beyond the NFL field to host youth camps that blend football skill development with lessons in teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship. These camps, designed for kids ages 7 to 16 across Tennessee, aren’t just about teaching passes or tackles; they’re about creating a fun, inclusive space where young athletes can grow both on and off the field. Youth Camps Organized by the Tennessee Titans Staff explores the design of these camps, the hands-on role of Titans staff, and how they’ve become a cornerstone of the franchise’s community outreach. For the Titans, these camps are more than an annual event—they’re a way to connect with the next generation of fans and instill values that extend far beyond football.

Youth Camps Organized by the Tennessee Titans Staff begins with the camp structure, which balances skill-building with fun to keep kids engaged. Each camp runs for five days (9 a.m. to 12 p.m.), starting with a warm-up led by Titans athletic trainers that emphasizes injury prevention—including stretches, agility drills, and lessons on proper hydration. The day then splits into rotating stations: passing (led by quarterbacks or wide receivers), tackling (taught with a focus on safety, using padded dummies instead of live contact), blocking (guided by offensive linemen), and team drills (small-sided scrimmages that encourage communication). What makes the structure unique is its adaptability: stations are modified for different age groups—younger kids (7-10) focus on basic skills like catching and running routes, while older kids (11-16) dive into more advanced concepts like reading defenses or executing play-action passes. “We don’t want any kid to feel left out or overwhelmed,” said Titans assistant coach Tony Dews, who oversees camp curriculum. “By tailoring stations to their age and skill level, we make sure every kid leaves feeling like they improved.” The day ends with a “character circle,” where a Titans player shares a personal story about overcoming a challenge—reinforcing that hard work and perseverance matter more than winning.

A defining feature of the camps is the direct involvement of Titans staff, who bring NFL expertise and passion to every session. Head coaches (including interim staff and position coaches), players, and even front-office members volunteer their time, often staying after camp to sign autographs or take photos with kids. For example, in 2025, running back Derrick Henry led the blocking station, showing kids how to use their body weight to create space—while sharing stories about his own youth football days. Tight end Chigoziem Okonkwo ran the passing station, teaching kids how to track a ball in the air and make a secure catch. Even Titans owner Amy Adams Strunk made an appearance at the Nashville camp, joining the character circle to talk about the importance of respect. “When a kid gets to learn a drill from Derrick Henry or ask a question to a coach who’s been in the NFL, it’s a moment they’ll never forget,” said Titans community relations coordinator Sarah Johnson. “Our staff doesn’t just show up—they invest in these kids, and that’s what makes the camps special.” Youth Camps Organized by the Tennessee Titans Staff notes that this involvement also sets a positive example: kids see professional athletes and coaches who are humble, hardworking, and willing to give back—lessons that stay with them long after camp ends.

Youth Camps Organized by the Tennessee Titans Staff also delves into the camp’s focus on accessibility, ensuring kids from all backgrounds can participate. The Titans offer need-based scholarships (covering 100% of camp fees) for families who can’t afford the $75 registration cost, partnering with local nonprofits like the Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee to identify recipients. In 2025, 30% of campers received scholarships, with additional support provided for transportation (free bus routes from underserved neighborhoods) and meals (free breakfast and snacks each day). For 9-year-old Mia from Memphis, who received a scholarship, the camp was life-changing: “I’ve always loved football, but my mom couldn’t afford to sign me up for anything,” she said. “Getting to learn from Titans players was so cool—I even caught a pass from Okonkwo! Now I want to play for my school team.” For the Tennessee Titans, accessibility isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a commitment to ensuring every kid has a chance to experience the joy of football, regardless of their family’s income. “Football should be for everyone,” said Dews. “By offering scholarships and support, we’re making sure no kid is left out because of money.”

Another key aspect of the camps is their focus on community building, which extends beyond the five-day session. After camp ends, the Titans staff stays connected with kids through a monthly newsletter that includes football tips, motivational quotes, and updates on upcoming events (like Titans home games or youth league tournaments). The staff also invites top campers (chosen for their work ethic, not just skill) to attend a Titans practice, where they get to meet the team and watch a walkthrough. In 2025, 50 campers were invited to the Titans’ final preseason practice, with some even getting to run a drill alongside players during warm-ups. “Staying connected with the kids after camp helps reinforce the lessons we taught,” said Johnson. “When they see us again at a practice or a game, it reminds them that we care about their growth, not just for a week, but all year long.” For the Tennessee Titans, this ongoing connection also strengthens their bond with local communities: families who participate in the camps are more likely to attend games, volunteer with Titans initiatives, or support the team’s youth programs. It’s a cycle of engagement that benefits both the franchise and the kids they serve.

Youth Camps Organized by the Tennessee Titans Staff concludes with the long-term impact of the program. Over the past five years, the camps have served over 12,000 kids, with 85% of parents reporting their child’s confidence improved after attending. Local youth football leagues have also seen an increase in participation—many coaches credit the Titans camps with sparking kids’ interest in the sport. Beyond football, the camps have helped kids build life skills: 78% of campers surveyed said they learned how to work better in a team, and 65% said they felt more comfortable asking for help when they struggled. For 14-year-old Jaden from Knoxville, who attended the camp in 2024 and now plays for his high school team, the impact was personal: “The Titans coaches taught me that it’s okay to make mistakes, as long as you try again,” he said. “That’s helped me not just in football, but in school too—when I fail a test, I don’t give up; I ask my teacher for help.” For the Tennessee Titans, these stories are the ultimate measure of success. “Our camps aren’t just about creating better football players—they’re about creating better kids,” said Strunk. “Every time a kid leaves our camp with a smile, a new skill, or a lesson about resilience, we know we’re doing something right.” As the Titans continue to expand the camps (adding a new location in Chattanooga in 2026), they remain committed to their mission: to use football as a tool to empower Tennessee’s youth, one camp at a time.