Build skills. Build confidence. Build character—the Gryphon way. Hillsborough County's premier three-day youth football fundamentals camp at Sickles High School offers an incredible opportunity for young athletes to develop football skills in a safe, supportive, non-contact environment. Led by experienced coaches, this camp emphasizes fundamental skill development, teamwork, and character building through age-appropriate instruction. Whether your child is picking up a football for the first time or looking to refine their game, our camp creates a positive, inclusive space where every participant can grow as an athlete and a person.
Camp Dates & Times
Monday–Wednesday, July 6–8, 2026
Daily sessions: 7:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
Check-in begins at 7:15 a.m. each morning
Location: Sickles High School Turf Football Field
Who Can Attend
Ages: 7–14 years old (as of July 6, 2026)
Open to: All girls and boys
Eligibility: Students in the Hillsborough County Public Schools attendance area
Limited number of spaces — register early!
Registration Fee
$150 per camper
Need-based scholarships available for students eligible for the Free Lunch Program. Requests handled confidentially through the Camp Director until funds are exhausted.
Register online: sicklesfootball.com
Camp Format: Safety Comes First
This is a 100% non-contact fundamentals camp designed to teach proper football skills while prioritizing player safety. No player-to-player tackling or blocking occurs at any time. All competitive periods use tag or two-hand touch formats, and any contact instruction utilizes bags, shields, or dummies only.
Campers are grouped by age to ensure instruction is developmentally appropriate, allowing younger and older participants to learn at the right pace. Our experienced coaching staff creates a supportive atmosphere where every child can succeed, regardless of their prior football experience.
Non-Contact Means
- No tackling between players
- No blocking between players
- Tag/two-hand touch only
- Equipment-based contact instruction
- Age-grouped for safety
What Your Child Will Learn
Football Fundamentals
Age-appropriate skill development including throwing, catching, ball security, and basic position techniques taught progressively over three days
Speed & Movement
Running form, balance, coordination, agility, and change of direction mechanics that translate to all sports and physical activities
Game Concepts
Introduction to offensive and defensive concepts, basic position responsibilities, and understanding how plays develop on the field
Character Development
Sportsmanship, teamwork, effort, discipline, respect, and leadership skills emphasized throughout every camp activity and interaction
Three-Day Camp Progression
Day 1: Fundamentals & Safety
Introduction to camp rules, safety protocols, basic football skills, and movement mechanics. Players get comfortable with coaches, teammates, and the environment.
Day 2: Offense Emphasis
Focus on offensive skills including ball handling, throwing, catching, route running, and basic offensive concepts. Players begin applying fundamentals in structured situations.
Day 3: Defense & Competition
Defensive fundamentals, position responsibilities, and friendly competition periods. Camp concludes with recognition, awards ceremony, and celebration of growth.
Typical Camp Day Schedule
Check-In & Group Organization
7:15–7:30 a.m. — Arrival, attendance, age-group assignments
Dynamic Warm-Up & Movement Fundamentals
7:30–7:50 a.m. — Full-group warm-up focusing on proper movement patterns
Skill Stations & Position Periods
7:50–9:15 a.m. — Rotating stations teaching specific football skills by position group
Competitive Fundamentals & Team Period
9:15–10:15 a.m. — Tag/two-hand touch team activities applying learned skills
Cool-Down, Review & Recognition
10:15–10:30 a.m. — Stretch, daily awards, dismissal
Hydration breaks are scheduled throughout each session and increased based on weather conditions and camper needs.
What to Bring to Camp
Required Items
- Refillable water bottle — staying hydrated is essential in Florida's summer heat
- Athletic clothing — comfortable shorts, t-shirt, athletic underwear
- Athletic shoes — cleats optional but tennis shoes/trainers work great
Strongly Recommended
- Mouthguard — even in non-contact, protection is smart
- Sunscreen — reapply during breaks
- Hat or visor — sun protection for morning sessions
Awards & Recognition
Every camper receives recognition for their participation and effort throughout the three-day camp. Our awards celebrate not just athletic ability, but also the character traits that make great teammates and leaders.
Camp T-Shirt
Every participant receives an official Sickles Gryphons Fun-damentals camp shirt to commemorate their experience
Daily "Gryphon of the Day"
One camper from each age group recognized daily for outstanding effort, attitude, or improvement
Participation Certificate
Official certificate of completion awarded to all campers on the final day
End-of-Camp Awards
Special recognition for Hustle, Leadership, Most Improved, Best Teammate, and other character-based achievements
How to Register
Registration is Simple
Visit sickles football.givebacks.com to complete your online payement.. You'll also need to provide emergency contact information and complete required consent forms.
Required participation forms:
- Completed registration with emergency contacts
- Signed medical release
- Parent/guardian consent form
Register early — spots are limited to 36 campers!
Important Policies & Information
Drop-Off & Pick-Up
Parents/guardians are responsible for daily drop-off by 7:15 a.m. and prompt pick-up at 10:30 a.m. Please plan accordingly as supervision is provided during camp hours only.
Refund Policy
Refund requests are subject to Sickles High School internal accounts procedures and require administrative approval. Contact the Camp Director as early as possible if circumstances change.
Weather & Safety
Camp operates rain or shine with weather modifications as needed. In case of severe weather, families will be notified via the contact information provided during registration.
Contact the Camp Director
Have questions about the camp, registration, scholarships, or specific needs for your child? Coach Bolden and the Sickles football staff are here to help.
Whether you're wondering about your child's readiness, need clarification on camp policies, or want to discuss scholarship opportunities, don't hesitate to reach out. We want every eligible child in Hillsborough County to have the chance to experience Gryphons football.
"Join us this summer for three days of fun, fundamentals, and building the foundation for a lifetime of athletic success and strong character. We can't wait to see your young Gryphon on the field!"
Sickles Gryphons Fun-damentals Youth Football Camp