It’s estimated that a grand total of approximately $10,000 worth of equipment was stolen total.
Just days before the start of their season, the Wolves Youth Athletic Association’s youth football program was left without helmets, uniforms, shoulder pads and other equipment after it was stolen on Aug. 15. In an effort to support and unify the Southwest Philadelphia-based athletic association, Councilman Kenyatta Johnson (2nd District) and the Philadelphia Eagles came together to help contribute to the Wolves’ Equipment Replacement Fund. On Tuesday evening at the NovaCare Complex, the Eagles presented a $5,000 check to WYAA to put toward re-purchasing gear for the players. Additionally, Johnson’s office donated $2,500 toward the equipment replacement fund. It’s estimated that a total of approximately $10,000 worth of equipment was stolen.
“A couple weeks ago, an unfortunate situation occurred with your equipment being stolen, potentially jeopardizing your ability to play football this season,” Eagles President Don Smolenski said at the check presentation. “Councilman Johnson heard the story and the first thing he did was reach out to me because he knows about our commitment to supporting youth football and the ability to play football in a safe manner. So with that phone call, Councilman and I jumped into action and we’re here tonight to share with you together in partnership that we’re going to make a significant donation to your equipment replacement fund so you guys can get back on the field and play.”
Tuesday’s check presentation is designed to help get the fundraising started for the WYAA. The Eagles and Johnson are putting an invitation out and encouraging the local community to help contribute to the Wolves’ Equipment Replacement Fund. Supporters can donate by visiting tinyurl.com/HelpWYAA.
“When we received the news that your equipment was stolen, I immediately texted Don Smolenski because of his commitment here to the city of Philadelphia, but most importantly to the children here in the city of Philadelphia,” Johnson said at the event. “When we had a similar incident that took place in South Philadelphia several months ago, I called Don and he stepped up to the plate. So I knew when I thought of him this time, he wasn’t going to hesitate to make sure that this did happen.”
After his brief speech, Johnson encouraged WYAA’s athletes and cheerleaders, who were present in the audience, to “continue listening to your parents. Continue to listen to your coaches. Keep your education first and follow your hopes, your dreams, and all your aspirations and as a city we will be behind you and we will support you in all of your efforts and your endeavors.”
