Number of Participants: 20
Hours Donated: 18
Value of Time Served: $12,524
Event Type: Children & Youth
Activity: Football
School: Kasson-Mantorville High School
Date: August 18, 2026
Location:
Kasson Mantorville High School Football
Mantorville, MN
USA
About:
The Kasson-Mantorville football program is building more than strong athletes—it is creating a lasting tradition of leadership, mentorship, and service.
Each year, players in grades 9–12 are encouraged to give back to the program by volunteering with younger athletes throughout the community. According to Head Coach Joel Swanson, participation has grown significantly over the years. What once may have drawn only four high school volunteers now regularly brings out 20 or more players to help lead youth football camps.
During the summer, the team hosts a two-night camp for seventh- and eighth-grade athletes, with each session lasting approximately two hours. Later in the summer, another two-night camp is held for students in grades 3–6, with sessions lasting about 90 minutes.
The high school players take an active role in running the camps. They divide into six position groups and teach younger athletes football fundamentals and skills as participants rotate through each station. The camps conclude with games that give the younger players an opportunity to put those skills into action.
The service continues into the fall through Kasson-Mantorville’s youth flag football program. For approximately six Saturdays, anywhere from eight to 20 high school players volunteer to coach, assist younger athletes, and help officiate games.
The program has also created several special traditions that strengthen the connection between the varsity team and younger KoMets.
One is Youth Football Autograph Night. According to Kasson-Mantorville Football Booster Club member Angie Richards, the varsity players head over to the youth practice fields at the end of practice with tables and Sharpies to sign “Touchdown Towels” for the younger players. They add their names, jersey numbers, and words of encouragement, creating a memorable opportunity for young KoMets to connect with the varsity athletes they look up to.
Richards shared that the event has quickly become one of her favorite nights of the year because of the bond it creates between the varsity players and the next generation of Kasson-Mantorville football.
That connection continues on home game mornings, when a group of players visits the elementary school to line the entryway and greet students with high-fives as they arrive. The tradition has become a special way for the youngest KoMets—and even teachers who once taught the players—to connect with the team before game day. This year, the players are excited to continue the tradition and expand it to include the middle school as well.
Coach Swanson emphasizes to his players that younger athletes look up to them, making their involvement especially meaningful. By volunteering their time, sharing their knowledge, and serving as positive role models, Kasson-Mantorville football players are strengthening their program while inspiring the next generation.
Their efforts are a wonderful example of how student-athletes can use sports to build stronger connections, develop leadership skills, and make a meaningful impact throughout their community.
