Eric Larkin outlines Mid Valley Football and Cheer program expansion in Lebanon community

The Sweet Home School District 55 Board Meeting on March 11, 2025, featured a presentation from Eric Larkin, representing the Mid Valley Football and Cheer program. Larkin outlined the program's growth and its aim to provide competitive youth football opportunities in the Lebanon area, which includes Sweet Home.

Established in February 2023, the Mid Valley Football and Cheer program has quickly gained traction, expanding from 80 participants in its inaugural year to approximately 130 in the last season. The program includes tackle football, flag football, and cheerleading, with a focus on fostering sportsmanship and life skills among young athletes.

Larkin highlighted the success of the program, noting that eight players were selected for the Oregon Pro Bowl All State game, with four athletes set to participate in a prestigious All-American game at IMG Academy in Florida. He emphasized the program's commitment to developing fundamental skills and encouraging respect for parents, teachers, and the community.

The initiative aims to provide a more competitive option for youth football, particularly for third and fourth graders, as well as sixth graders. Larkin expressed the belief that offering multiple football options would benefit families seeking a more competitive experience while allowing other organizations to maintain fair playing time for all participants.

The discussion underscored the community's interest in enhancing youth sports opportunities and the potential for collaboration among local organizations to support this goal.