Hall of Fame Village to Host IFA Jamboree

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 20, 2026

The Independent Football Alliance (IFA) is thrilled to announce a landmark partnership with Hall of Fame Village in Canton, Ohio to host the inaugural IFA Youth Football Jamboree in August 2026.

Historic Venue for Historic Event

Hall of Fame Village, the premier sports, entertainment, and youth sports destination adjacent to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, will welcome hundreds of young athletes from IFA member leagues for a weekend of competition, skills development, and celebration of youth football.

"There is no more fitting location than Canton, the birthplace of professional football, to showcase the talent and dedication of independent youth football leagues," says IFA Commissioner Jimm Kramer. "Hall of Fame Village provides world-class facilities and an inspiring atmosphere that will create unforgettable experiences for these young athletes."

Event Details

The IFA Youth Football Jamboree will feature:

• Championship Games: Top teams from IFA member leagues competing for regional titles
• Skills Challenges: Individual competitions in passing, receiving, kicking, and agility
• All-Star Showcase: Exhibition game featuring selected players from member leagues
• Coaches Clinic: Professional development sessions with college and high school coaches
• Pro Football Hall of Fame Tours: Exclusive access for participants and families
• College Recruiting Exposure: Attended by scouts from regional colleges

World-Class Facilities

Hall of Fame Village offers:

• Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium: 23,000-seat stadium where championship games will be held
• Center for Performance: State-of-the-art indoor training facility for skills competitions
• Youth Sports Complex: Multiple regulation fields for preliminary games
• Hall of Fame Experience: Adjacent to the Pro Football Hall of Fame Museum

Partnership Benefits

This partnership extends beyond a single event. IFA member leagues gain:

• Annual Event Access: Guaranteed participation slots for qualified teams
• Facility Discounts: Reduced rates for league training camps and tournaments
• Marketing Exposure: Promotion through Hall of Fame Village's national platform
• Educational Resources: Access to coaching and administrative training programs

Community Impact

"Hall of Fame Village is committed to growing youth football at all levels," says Michael Crawford, President of Hall of Fame Village. "Partnering with the IFA allows us to support independent leagues that serve thousands of young athletes who might not otherwise have access to quality football programs and facilities."

The jamboree is expected to draw over 1,000 players, 200 coaches, and 3,000 family members to the Canton area, providing significant economic impact to the local community.

Registration Opening Soon

Registration details for the inaugural IFA Youth Football Jamboree will be announced in April 2026. IFA member leagues will receive priority registration, with limited spots available for non-member leagues.

"This is exactly the type of opportunity the IFA was created to provide," adds Commissioner Kramer. "Independent leagues now have access to premier venues and events that were previously out of reach. Canton is just the beginning."

About Hall of Fame Village

Hall of Fame Village is a mixed-use sports, entertainment and youth sports destination centered around the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. The development features the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, a full-service hotel, meeting spaces, restaurants, retail, and the Center for Performance—a comprehensive youth sports complex.

About the Independent Football Alliance

The Independent Football Alliance is America's collective representing independent youth football leagues. The IFA provides representation, resources, and networking opportunities while respecting the independence and autonomy of member leagues. There is no cost to join.

Media Contacts

Independent Football Alliance
Commissioner Jimm Kramer
Email: info@independentfootballalliance.com

Hall of Fame Village
Media Relations
Email: media@hofvillage.com

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