Leesburg, FL — In a move set to shape the future of local Pop Warner football programs, former NFL Pro Football Hall of Famer and Philadelphia Eagles executive Steve Strawbridge has been promoted to President and CEO of Pop Warner Little Scholars. Strawbridge succeeds Jon Butler, who retired at the end of the 2024 season after 33 years as executive director.

This will have an impact on our local teams who compete in Pop Warner including cheer, youth football and other teams. Below you can learn about Strawbridge’s plans for the future an who else is joining his team. This is very exciting as Pop Warner is one of the largest youth sports organizations in the USA and continues to grow in Lake & Sumter County.

Joining Strawbridge in the leadership revamp, Tim Glase has been promoted to executive vice president and chief operating officer.

Strawbridge, who becomes only the fourth chief executive to lead Pop Warner since its founding in 1929, brings a wealth of experience to the organization. He previously served as chief administrative officer of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and director of merchandising for the Philadelphia Eagles. In Canton, he managed operations, sales, and oversaw high-profile events such as the Hall of Fame Enshrinement Week and the annual NFL preseason Hall of Fame Game. Strawbridge also played a key role in the construction of the National Youth Football and Sports Complex and the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, a 23,000-seat facility that hosts the Ohio State Athletic Association high school football state championship.

“When we began the search, we set out to find a leader who would embody the long-held values and vision of Pop Warner, possess impeccable leadership qualities, and demonstrate a genuine passion for youth development through sports,” said Wynn Jessup, chairman of the Pop Warner board of directors. “We found that person in Steve Strawbridge.”

Strawbridge expressed excitement about his new role, emphasizing the importance of youth development. “Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working on the culmination of a player’s journey, celebrating their achievements and legacies. I’m excited to now be part of the earliest stage of those journeys, helping young student-athletes take their first steps, develop their potential, and build character through sport, education, and teamwork,” he said.

Glase echoed the enthusiasm, noting Pop Warner’s recent progress and opportunities for growth. “Steve’s career experience complements our team, and his leadership capabilities will help us continue to drive innovation and growth,” Glase said.

Pop Warner is the nation’s oldest youth football, cheerleading, and dance organization, with more than 80 leagues and 850 local programs across the United States. Its national championship events, including the Pop Warner Super Bowl and Cheer & Dance Nationals, attract hundreds of teams and thousands of young athletes each year.

Founded in 1929 and headquartered in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, Pop Warner emphasizes academics alongside athletics, fostering an environment that prioritizes character, safety, and fun for young participants.

For more information, visit www.popwarner.com.