SHAMOKIN - County and local leaders are continuing the push to have more local children join community organizations and leave the mean streets behind by announcing a football league signup.
Flanked by Shamokin Police Chief Edward Griffiths and Mayor George Rozinskie, Brian Wheary, operations commander at the Northumberland County prison, announced Thursday at City Hall that the Shamokin-Coal Township Juvenile Sports Association football league will hold a signup 6 p.m. Monday at the Shamokin Street playground for any child who wants to play football or be a cheerleader.
Children between the ages of five and 13 or kindergarten through seventh grade are eligible to join the league.
Wheary said helping kids find focus when they're young is key to helping them stay out of trouble when they're older.
"Be it football, Boy Scouts or volunteer firefighting, it teaches you goals and leadership skills," he said. "We have to mold these kids while they are young."
Jerseys, pads, helmets and safety equipment will be provided at no cost. Wheary said local businesses have volunteered to assist with the $5 registration fee for any child with a financial hardship.
The league's goals are to create a positive environment for youth to achieve respect, teamwork and leadership skills.