[DETROIT, MI] — [February 5, 2026] — American Coney Island, Detroit’s iconic family-run restaurant, has renewed its commitment to the Michigan youth sports community with its partnership with the RCX Sports Foundation to help more Michigan families access flag football. The foundation is the non-profit arm of RCX Sports aimed at developing, promoting, and implementing diversity and inclusion in youth sports. With registration costs often posing a significant barrier to participation, American Coney Island is covering registration fees for families in need throughout the state.
In 2025, the partnership awarded 98 scholarships across 22 NFL FLAG leagues throughout the state of Michigan, helping ensure more children could participate in organized sports regardless of their family’s financial circumstances. This donation will provide financial assistance to families eligible for the grant, ensuring that more children can participate in NFL FLAG football. Nearly 30,000 kids participate in NFL FLAG across Michigan each year, and this renewed partnership underscores a shared commitment to breaking down financial barriers and increasing access to youth sports statewide.
“Flag football has been a big part of mine and my son’s life for the last couple of years. Being a volunteer coach myself, my biggest enjoyment comes from seeing the look on the kids’ faces as they get stronger and more confident in the sport,” says American Coney Island Owner, Chris Sotiropoulos. “Sports have always been an important part of my family’s life, and we want to make sure it’s a big part of other Michigan family’s lives too. As one of the oldest families in Detroit, we strive to give back to the community that has always been so good to us.”
“Financial challenges remain one of the biggest barriers preventing kids from participating in youth sports, and the impact of this partnership goes far beyond registration fees,” says RCX Sports Foundation Executive Director, Ericka Newsome. “We regularly hear from parents who share how critical this support is for their families — from single parents doing everything they can to keep their kids engaged, to families who rely on sports to provide structure, confidence, and positive role models. Partnerships like this with American Coney Island not only help kids get on the field, but help families feel supported, and that impact is truly meaningful,” says RCX Sports Foundation Executive Director, Ericka Newsome. “Local partnerships like this are essential to helping us fulfill our mission of providing all kids with the opportunity to experience the benefits of sports, regardless of their circumstances.”
With youth sports participation linked to numerous lifelong benefits, this initiative has and continues to foster a more inclusive, welcoming environment for young athletes across Michigan.
RCX Sports is the official operator of NFL Flag, the nation’s largest flag football league for boys and girls aged 5-17. Eligible families can apply for the registration grant by visiting rcxfoundation.org. The grant will be available until funds are fully allocated.
About American Coney Island
Founded by Gust Keros in 1917, American Coney Island is Detroit’s oldest family-run restaurant and the original home of the famous Detroit “Coney Dog” featuring chili, mustard, and onions. Owned by three generations of the Keros family, the restaurant has been featured on The Today Show, Iron Chef Michael Symon’s “Food Feuds” on Food Network, and Travel Channel’s “Food Wars.” American Coney Island Kits, a favorite for fundraising, can be shipped nationwide. For more information, visit www.AmericanConeyIsland.com.
About RCX Sports Foundation
The RCX Sports Foundation is the non-profit arm of RCX Sports, dedicated to promoting diversity, inclusion, and access in youth sports. By providing safe, welcoming opportunities, the foundation works to ensure no child is denied the lifelong benefits of sports. For more information, visit rcxfoundation.org.
About NFL Flag:
NFL Flag is an NFL-licensed property of more than 2,000 locally operated leagues and over 830,000 youth athletes across all 50 states and Canada. NFL Flag is a fun and accessible non-contact program available for girls and boys ages 5-17. Players benefit by being physically active through non-contact, continuous action while learning the fundamentals of football as well as lessons in teamwork and sportsmanship. RCX Sports is the official operator of NFL Flag.
NFL Flag has a presence across 15 international markets outside of the United States. Fast paced and accessible for all, flag football is one of the fastest growing sports globally with women and girls leading some of the largest growth and increased participation. The game provides a structured opportunity for youth to play the non-contact version of American football while discovering the importance of sportsmanship, teamwork, and friendship both on and off the field. Learn more online at nflflag.com.
Media Contacts:
Michelle Isaacs, 22 Spring
michelle@22-spring.com
Julian Galano, 22 Spring
julian@22-spring.com