Police partner for Youth Football Combine on campus

In an effort to strengthen ties between the University and the surrounding community, police officers from Delaware State University and the Dover Police Athletic League came together on Saturday, June 15, for the 2nd Annual Youth Football Combine held at Alumni Stadium.

Delaware middle school students of all skill levels participated in the program. Under a clear sky, parents cheered from the sidelines as law enforcement officers and volunteers from Best Buy coached the students through a variety of football activities that focused on speed, agility and muscular strength.

Police Athletic League Coordinator Anthony Smith coordinated the event with the assistance of Lt. Joi Simmons of the Delaware State University Police Department.

Delaware State University Police Officers Gregory Elliott and Theodore Johnson were among the coaches as well as Terrence Knight and Brian Gedney of the Dover Police Department. Law enforcement officers from the Delaware Department of Corrections were also present and joined by police officers and former NFL players Michael Coleman of the St. Louis Rams and Jamal Merrel of the Tennessee Titans.

Throughout the day, students enjoyed Icees, pizza and Gatorade courtesy of the event sponsors, Sam’s Club and Home Depot. At the end of the combine, all participating students played 7 on 7 football games to showcase their refined skill sets.

The Delaware State University Police Department is the primary law enforcement agency throughout the University and is responsible for the safety and security of students, faculty, staff and visitors.