Press Release Archives | RCX Foundation

American Coney Island Renews Partnership with RCX Sports Foundation to Remove Financial Barriers to Youth Sports Participation in Michigan

[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

Support Every Game: New Initiative Tackles Hidden Barrier Keeping Girls Out of Sports

Press Release

The RCX Sports Foundation to provide sports bras to 2,500 young athletes

Roswell, GA (October 29, 2025) — The RCX Sports Foundation and NFL FLAG, as part of the Females in Flag initiative, today announced the launch of the Support Every Game campaign, with support from Gillette Venus and Head & Shoulders. Starting today, the campaign aims to address one of the most overlooked barriers preventing girls from staying in sports: access to proper athletic support

The groundbreaking initiative will provide 2,500 female NFL FLAG athletes across the nation with two sports bras each, ensuring they can compete with confidence and dignity. With 1 in 5 girls dropping out of sports by age 14 and 75% lacking access to sports bras through school athletics ², the Support Every Game tackles a critical gap that has long been ignored in youth sports.

“We’re addressing an uncomfortable truth: breast pain is the fourth biggest reason teenage girls stop playing sports,” said Ericka Newsome, Executive Director at the RCX Sports Foundation. “Sports bras are as essential as cleats, yet they’re often treated as optional. Support Every Game changes that narrative.”

Research reveals the scope of this challenge:

73% of adolescent girls experience breast discomfort¹ while exercising without proper support. (University of Portsmouth, Journal of Adolescent Health, 2016)

Girls drop out of sports at twice the rate of boys by age 14. (Women’s Sports Foundation)

1 in 3 girls from low-income families quit sports due to cost barriers. (Project Play)

Sports bras remain among the most requested but least provided items in girls’ athletics. (Women in Sport)

Support Every Game targets female athletes under 18 (or up to 19 if still in high school) from households earning below the national median income of $80,610, ensuring resources reach those who need them most. The campaign impact extends far beyond the playing field. Girls who participate in sports are 92% more likely to graduate high school and 80% more likely to hold leadership roles as adults. They demonstrate higher self-esteem, better academic performance, and stronger career outcomes throughout their lives.

Applications open today through the RCX Sports Foundation website, with distribution beginning this fall to coincide with the NFL FLAG season. For more information about Support Every Game, visit here.

About Females in Flag

Led by RCX Sports in collaboration with the NFL, this initiative supports a complete player journey: starting in youth leagues, building through high school teams, and continuing into college programs and global opportunities. Girls’ flag football is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country—and Females in Flag is helping shape what comes next. From first-time players to college-bound athletes, Females in Flag is committed to building access, visibility, and opportunity at every level of the game.

About NFL FLAG

NFL FLAG is an NFL-licensed property of more than 2,000 locally operated leagues and over 765,000 youth athletes across all 50 states. 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. Females in Flag is an ongoing strategic initiative to grow

About RCX Foundation

The RCX Foundation is dedicated to creating more access and equity in youth sports through grants, programming, and partnerships. As the non-profit arm of RCX Sports, the foundation focuses on expanding youth sports opportunities so all children can experience the lifelong benefit of sports. By removing barriers to participation, the Foundation helps young athletes discover confidence, build character, and thrive both on and off the field. For more information, visit https://rcxfoundation.org/.

RCX SPORTS FOUNDATION APPOINTS ERICKA NEWSOME AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Press Release

Veteran Sports Philanthropy Leader to Oversee Foundation to Advance Access and Equity in Youth Sports

ATLANTA, GA (August 7, 2025) — The RCX Sports Foundation, the non-profit arm of RCX Sports dedicated to developing, promoting, and implementing diversity and inclusion in youth sports, today announced the appointment of Ericka Newsome as its first Executive Director. In this newly created leader role, Newsome will oversee the Foundation’s mission-driven efforts to expand access to safe, inclusive, and enriching youth sports opportunities nationwide.

A widely respected executive in sports philanthropy and community impact, Newsome will lead investment strategy, program development, and partner engagement—working with major leagues such as the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, and USTA—to scale community-based programming that fosters physical activity, mentorship, leadership and life skills through sport.

The RCX Sports Foundation serves as the non-profit arm of RCX Sports and focuses on dismantling systemic barriers that prevent young people—especially those in underserved communities—from participating in sports. Through partnerships with professional leagues, community organizations, and philanthropic leaders, the Foundation funds and implements initiatives that make youth sports more accessible, equitable, and impactful.

“The RCX Sports Foundation is addressing some of the biggest barriers that prevent kids from accessing sports,” said Newsome. “I’ve dedicated my career to making sure sports serve as a platform for opportunity, growth, and equity—and I’m honored to carry that mission forward at RCX. Together, we’ll build programs that not only serve communities but also help shape a more inclusive future for youth sports.”

“Ericka brings decades of experience driving meaningful impact through sport and building bridges between leagues, athletes, and communities,” said Izell Reese, CEO of RCX Sports. “Her leadership will be pivotal in scaling our work and advancing our commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity to experience the life-changing benefits of sport.”

Prior to joining the RCX Sports Foundation, Newsome served as Director of Community Engagement for the Memphis Grizzlies, where she led education, health, and civic engagement initiatives that positioned the team as a community leader across the Mid-South. Previously, she was Director of Player Engagement for the Atlanta Hawks, where she developed and managed programs focused on community outreach, personal development, and career transition planning for athletes.

Newsome also spent 15 years with the Atlanta Braves, where she served as Director of Community Affairs and Executive Director of the Atlanta Braves Foundation. Under her leadership, the Foundation raised and distributed over $7 million to local nonprofits and launched hallmark initiatives such as the Atlanta Braves Baseball Academy, the Jr. Braves Baseball League, and the Pinch Hitter Youth Baseball Fund—impacting thousands of youth across Georgia.

About RCX Foundation
The RCX Foundation is dedicated to creating more access and equity in youth sports through grants, programming, and partnerships. As the non-profit arm of RCX Sports, the foundation focuses on expanding youth sports opportunities so all children can experience the lifelong benefit of sports. By removing barriers to participation, the Foundation helps young athletes discover confidence, build character, and thrive both on and off the field. For more information, visit https://rcxfoundation.org/.

Gillette Teams Up with RCX Foundation to Expand Access to Youth Sports Through NFL FLAG Participation Grant

Press Release

Gillette Joins the Flag Football Movement with New Participation Grant

ATLANTA, GA (June 23, 2025) — The RCX Foundation, the nonprofit arm of RCX Sports, is proud to announce a $25,000 donation from Gillette to support youth athletes nationwide through a new NFL FLAG participation grant. The contribution will directly fund financial assistance for families who need support registering their children for NFL FLAG, the official flag football program of the NFL, operated by RCX Sports.

With a goal of breaking down economic barriers to participation, the Gillette-sponsored grant will provide eligible families with up to $100 toward registration fees for the non-contact flag football league. Flag football is one of the fastest-growing sports globally — played by over 20 million people across 100 countries, with women and girls driving much of the momentum.

“Too many kids are sidelined from youth sports because of financial constraints,” said Izell Reese, CEO of RCX Sports. “At RCX, our mission is to make youth sports accessible to all, and thanks to Gillette’s meaningful investment in that mission, we’re able to remove barriers, expand access, and help more young athletes discover the power of play through NFL FLAG.”

Grant Eligibility Requirements Include:

Applications must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the registration closing date.
Financial assistance is only available for upcoming seasons and cannot be applied retroactively to previously completed registrations.
Families must have an annual household income below the national median average of $80,610* and the participants must be enrolled in Medicaid, SNAP, or WIC, with proof of both income and enrollment required.

This initiative is part of a broader effort by the RCX Foundation and its partners to increase participation and visibility for NFL FLAG in underserved communities. With more than 2,000 leagues and 765,000 youth athletes nationwide, NFL FLAG is the largest youth flag football league in the country.

For more information on the grant or to apply, please visit https://rcxsportsfoundation.submittable.com/submit

About Gillette

For more than 120 years, Gillette has delivered precision technology and unrivaled product performance – improving the lives of over 800 million consumers around the world. From shaving and body grooming to skin care and sweat protection, Gillette offers a wide variety of products including razors, shave gel (gels, foams, and creams), skin care, aftershaves, antiperspirants, deodorants, and body wash. For more information and the latest news on Gillette, visit gillette.com.

About RCX Foundation

Media Contact:

RCX Foundation:

Julian Galano, julian@22-spring.com

Gillette:

Stephanie Buttrill, buttrill.sb@pg.com

The RQ Foundation and The RCX Sports Foundation Team Up to Donate $30,000 to Support Flag Football Officiating

Press Release

This press release was originally published by the RQ Foundation on May 6, 2025.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – The RQ Foundation is excited to announce a $30,000 donation in collaboration with the RCX Sports Foundation to support flag football officiating initiatives across the country.

The $30,000 contribution was announced by Bo Boroski, Founder and CEO of RQ+, and Izell Reese, CEO of RCX Sports and the Executive Director of NFL FLAG at the 2025 RQ Foundation Fundraiser. This funding has been allocated for officiating initiatives across the flag football ecosystem.

“Collectively, we have a unique opportunity to build a solid foundation and deliver the resources necessary to drive real, measurable outcomes,” said Boroski. “As the sport experiences rapid growth both in the U.S. and globally, it’s critical that officiating keeps pace. Beyond supporting our intercollegiate partners, we aim to establish a clear development pathway for officials – from youth flag football all the way to the professional level.”

The RCX Foundation is the non-profit arm of RCX Sports aimed at developing, promoting, and implementing diversity and inclusion in youth sports. RCX Sports is the official operator of NFL FLAG, the nation’s largest flag football league for boys and girls aged 5-17.

“Great officiating is fundamental to the integrity and future of flag football,” said Reese, CEO of RCX Sports and Executive Director of NFL FLAG. “As flag football continues to surge in popularity, investing in the training and development of officials is critical to sustaining that growth. We’re proud to partner with the RQ Foundation to elevate officiating standards and ensure that the sport delivers a safe and positive experience for athletes at every level.”

The RQ Foundation Fundraiser, titled “Behind the Whistle: Supporting Sport’s Third Team,” was held on April 27th, 2025 at the historic Vogue Theatre in Indianapolis and raised more than $60,000 to support the Foundation’s mission to enrich the officiating experience for collegiate officials.

Attendees were treated to three insightful panel discussions featuring leading figures from the sports landscape. A full list of this year’s sessions and panelists is listed below:

Pro Sports Panel

Stephanie White, Head Coach, Indiana Fever

Jack Doyle, retired NFL tight end, Indianapolis Colts

College Sports Panel

Scott Dolson, Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, Indiana University

Dan Gavitt, Senior Vice President of Basketball, NCAA

Pat Knight, Head Men’s Basketball Coach, Marian University

Flag Football Panel

Izell Reese, Chief Executive Officer, RCX Sports; Executive Director, NFL FLAG

Felicia Martin, NCAA Senior Vice President of Inclusion, Education & Community Engagement

About RCX Sports Foundation

RCX Sports Foundation and ZOLL Medical Join Forces to Equip Non-Profit Youth Sports Leagues with Life-Saving AEDs

Press Release

Atlanta, Georgia – March 17, 2025 –The RCX Sports Foundation, the non-profit arm of RCX Sports dedicated to developing, promoting, and implementing diversity and inclusion in youth sports, today announced a collaboration with ZOLL^® Medical to enhance player safety. Part of ZOLL’s Anything Can Happen. Anyone Can Help.™ education campaign, the collaboration calls for ZOLL Medical to become the Official Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Partner of the RCX Sports Foundation, working to ensure that youth athletes across the country have access to life-saving emergency care when it matters most.

To launch the initiative, RCX Sports Foundation and ZOLL are donating 15 AEDs to non-profit youth sports leagues nationwide, with additional quarterly donations planned throughout the year. The AEDs will be distributed through grant applications based on need among communities nationwide. Furthermore, league operators in the RCX Sports network will have the opportunity to purchase ZOLL AEDs at exclusive RCX rates, expanding access to essential emergency preparedness tools.

“Every second counts in a cardiac emergency, and it’s critical that youth athletes, coaches, and families have access to life-saving medical devices,” said Izell Reese, CEO of RCX Sports. “Our mission is to foster safer play and provide parents with peace of mind, knowing that our league operators are prepared for the unexpected. We’re honored to work with ZOLL to advance our commitment to making advanced emergency care accessible to the communities that need it most.”

“Anything can happen, and when an AED is nearby, anyone can help,” said Lori Peters, Associate Director, Advocacy and Partnership, ZOLL. “We’re delighted to collaborate with RCX to help save lives and expand networks of citizen first responders. Sudden cardiac arrest sadly remains a prevalent cause of death in youth sports. ZOLL AEDs provide real-time coaching and feedback that can empower any bystander to help save a life in a crisis.”

As the official youth sports operator for premier leagues including the NFL, NBA, WNBA, NHL, MLS, MLB, and USTA, RCX Sports oversees a vast network of leagues and youth programs, including NFL FLAG, which comprises over 2,000 individual leagues nationwide. This collaboration marks a major step in ensuring that these leagues are equipped to handle medical emergencies swiftly and effectively.

As AED access increases, it’s crucial that Americans feel empowered to act. ZOLL’s Anything Can Happen. Anyone Can Help.™ AED public advocacy and education campaign launched in fall 2024 with pro football player Damar Hamlin with a goal to spread awareness that AEDs are not just shock devices, but life-saving tools complete with audio-visual guidance and real-time feedback. For more information, training resources, and inspiring bystander success stories, visit AnyoneCanHelp.com.

About RCX Sports Foundation
The RCX Sports Foundation works to develop, promote, and implement diversity and inclusion in youth sports as the non-profit arm of RCX Sports. The foundation focuses on expanding youth sports opportunities so all children can experience athletics in a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment. No child’s circumstance in life should ever keep them from the lifelong benefit of sports. Sports for all. For more information, visit https://rcxfoundation.org/.

About ZOLL
ZOLL, an Asahi Kasei company, develops and markets medical devices and software solutions that help advance emergency care and save lives, while increasing clinical and operational efficiencies. With products for defibrillation and cardiac monitoring, circulation enhancement and CPR feedback, supersaturated oxygen therapy, data management, ventilation, therapeutic temperature management, and sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment, ZOLL provides a comprehensive set of technologies that help clinicians, EMS and fire professionals, as well as lay rescuers, improve patient outcomes in critical cardiopulmonary conditions. For more information, visit www.zoll.com.

Copyright © 2025 RCX Sports Foundation. All rights reserved. ZOLL and Anything Can Happen. Anyone Can Help. are trademarks or registered trademarks of ZOLL Medical Corporation and/or its subsidiaries in the United States and/or other countries. Asahi Kasei is a registered trademark of Asahi Kasei Corporation.