CLEVELAND, Ohio – USA Football, in collaboration with the Cleveland Browns, will host a Talent ID Camp on Saturday, February 15, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Browns’ training facility located at 76 Lou Groza Blvd in Berea, Ohio. This event is one of over 15 Talent ID Camps taking place nationwide, aimed at identifying top athletes for potential selection to the U.S. Flag Football National Team.
As the official governing body of American football, USA Football is responsible for assembling U.S. National Teams for international competitions, including the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, where flag football will make its Olympic debut. The Talent ID Camps are part of USA Football’s National Team Development Program (NTDP), which serves as the primary pathway for athletes aged 11-23 to enhance their skills and compete for spots on Select Teams and future National Team Trials.
Browns’ Commitment to Youth Football
The Cleveland Browns are dedicated to expanding youth and high school football in Northeast Ohio, emphasizing participation, equity, and development. Through year-round camps, clinics, and training programs, the Browns actively support players, coaches, officials, and parents in fostering a thriving football community.
USA Football’s Vision for Growth & Development
“USA Football is committed to identifying and nurturing elite talent, ensuring that we maintain our gold medal standard on the global stage,” said Scott Hallenbeck, CEO of USA Football. “We appreciate the Browns for hosting a Talent ID Camp at their world-class facility and for their continuous support in advancing flag football.”
Among the notable attendees will be Callie Brownson, USA Football’s Senior Director of High Performance & National Team Operations. Brownson, who previously spent five seasons on Kevin Stefanski’s coaching staff, made history in 2020 as the first woman to coach an NFL position group in a regular-season game.
“This is an exciting time for football globally, especially with the Olympics on the horizon,” Brownson said. “USA Football is building something special, and I’m eager to help identify and develop athletes who will represent the U.S. in international competition.”
What to Expect at the Talent ID Camp
The one-day event will include:
Combine testing to measure athletic performance
1v1 competitions & drills to evaluate skills
Olympic-style 5v5 scrimmages & situational play
Participants will receive elite coaching and feedback from USA Football’s expert evaluators. Standout performers may earn invitations to join Select Teams and compete in this summer’s Select Bowl, featuring top talent from across the country.
The Rise of Flag Football
Flag football is experiencing rapid growth across the U.S. According to USA Football research, participation among boys and girls aged 6-17 has increased 38% from 2014-2023, surpassing 1.6 million players last year. The sport is now a sanctioned high school varsity sport for girls in 13 states, reflecting its rising prominence.
About USA Football & Browns Give Back
USA Football is the governing body of the sport in the U.S. and the sole American member of the International Federation of American Football (IFAF). It is also a recognized sports organization by the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee. The organization is committed to developing and delivering premier educational, developmental, and competitive programs for tackle and flag football at all levels.
Through Browns Give Back, the Cleveland Browns support youth football, education, and social justice initiatives across Ohio. For more information, visit www.clevelandbrowns.com/community.
Analysis of the Article:
1. Key Objectives of the Event:
USA Football aims to identify and develop elite flag football players for potential selection to Select Teams and National Team Trials.
The 2028 Olympics provide a global stage for flag football’s growing prominence.
2. Strategic Partnerships:
The Cleveland Browns are playing a crucial role in advancing youth football development in Northeast Ohio.
USA Football and the Browns are collaborating to create more opportunities for young athletes to engage in high-level competition.
3. Growth of Flag Football:
The sport is experiencing a surge in popularity, especially among youth and female athletes.
The Olympic inclusion of flag football will further elevate its international appeal.
4. Significance of Callie Brownson’s Role:
Brownson’s leadership at USA Football adds credibility to the National Team Development Program.
As a trailblazer in coaching, her involvement encourages more women and young athletes to pursue careers in football.
5. Importance for Athletes:
Participants receive top-tier coaching, exposure, and potential selection for national and international competitions.
This camp provides a direct pathway to elite flag football opportunities, including the Olympics.
