The University of Toledo athletics department announced Thursday the launch of Rocket Youth Sports Leagues (RYSL), a new, university-led platform designed to expand access to high-quality, values-based youth sports experiences across Northwest Ohio.
According to the department's announcement, Toledo Athletics will operate RYSL, believed to be the first entity of its kind in NCAA Division I athletics, aligning a comprehensive community youth sports initiative directly with the Toledo's mission, resources and facilities. RYSL activities will begin this spring with boys' and girls' flag football leagues.
Ed Price will serve as executive director of RYSL. Price founded FNA Toledo eight years ago to provide families an alternative to tackle football for youths.
Under Price's leadership, RYSL will organize seasonal leagues, clinics and camps — beginning with flag football and expanding to additional sports — in partnership with Rocket coaches, staff and student-athletes.
"When communities invest in youth sports, the outcome is a win-win," Price said. "Participation in sports helps young athletes develop both their athleticism and their character, increasing the chances of them contributing back to their community. The goal for me has always been to create opportunities and experiences for our youth. This partnership will accomplish both. This is only the beginning of what we can achieve together. Our vision is to empower kids to discover their potential — on and off the field — through positive coaching, meaningful mentorship and unforgettable experiences."
As part of the launch, every RYSL participant will receive a complimentary Rocket Kids Club membership (a $50 value) with each league registration, creating year-round connections to campus through gameday experiences, exclusive events and touchpoints with Rocket teams. Additional program details — including initial sport offerings, seasonal calendars, locations and registration timelines — will be announced in the coming months, according to Thursday's announcement.
"Rocket Youth Sports Leagues is a perfect example of using the power of sports to help improve the lives of the young people in our community by helping them gain skills and confidence that will shape their future," said Toledo athletic director Bryan Blair. "Youth sports in America are surging, and families are seeking programs that develop the whole person. By aligning RYSL directly with Toledo Athletics, we're bringing our best — world-class coaching acumen, elite student-athlete mentors, and elite facilities — to serve the next generation.
"This is the beginning of a long-term strategy, an umbrella platform that will expand over the months and years ahead with more sports, more access and more touchpoints for kids to learn leadership, discipline, integrity and teamwork the Rocket Way. We're excited to help make the University of Toledo's campus the destination for youth sports in Northwest Ohio."
