Ford Center to Host IFA Super Bowl

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 5, 2026

The Independent Football Alliance (IFA) announces a groundbreaking partnership with The Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas—home of the Dallas Cowboys—to host the inaugural IFA Super Bowl, the national championship game for independent youth football leagues.

Playing Where Champions Train

The IFA Super Bowl will be held in December 2026 at The Ford Center, the Dallas Cowboys' indoor practice facility and one of the most technologically advanced sports venues in the world. This marks the first time independent youth football leagues will compete for a national championship at an NFL team facility.

"When we envisioned the IFA Super Bowl, we knew it had to be special—a venue that would inspire our young athletes and celebrate their achievements at the highest level," says IFA Commissioner Jimm Kramer. "The Ford Center at The Star provides an NFL experience that these players and their families will remember forever."

Championship Event Details

The IFA Super Bowl will feature:

• National Championship Game: Top two teams from IFA member leagues competing under the same roof where the Dallas Cowboys practice
• Championship Week: Five-day event including skills competitions, team activities, and community events
• Video Board Experience: Playing beneath the Cowboys' massive HD video board—one of the largest in sports
• NFL Atmosphere: Locker room access, sideline experience, and professional game-day production
• Live Streaming: National broadcast to all IFA member leagues
• Ring Ceremony: Championship rings presented to winning team

Venue Excellence

The Ford Center at The Star features:

• NFL-Quality Field: State-of-the-art artificial turf used by the Dallas Cowboys
• Climate-Controlled Environment: Perfect playing conditions regardless of weather
• 12,000-Seat Capacity: Stadium seating for families, friends, and scouts
• Advanced Technology: Giant video board, sound system, and lighting
• Professional Amenities: NFL-standard locker rooms and training facilities

Path to The Star

Teams qualify for the IFA Super Bowl through:

1. Regional Championships: Win your IFA regional tournament
2. At-Large Bids: Selection based on season record and strength of schedule
3. Playoff Format: Semi-final games determine championship participants

Only IFA member leagues are eligible to participate, providing additional incentive for independent leagues to join the alliance.

Partnership Vision

"The Star is more than just a facility—it's a destination that celebrates football excellence," says Jerry Jones Jr., Chief Sales and Marketing Officer for the Dallas Cowboys. "We're proud to partner with the IFA to give independent youth leagues an opportunity to experience what it's like to compete at the professional level."

This multi-year partnership includes:

• Annual Championship Hosting: Guaranteed venue access each December
• Training Camp Opportunities: IFA member leagues can reserve The Star for summer camps
• Cowboys Coaching Support: Guest appearances by former Cowboys players
• Merchandise Access: Official championship gear and Cowboys collaboration items

Economic and Community Impact

The IFA Super Bowl is projected to bring over 5,000 visitors to Frisco, Texas, generating significant economic impact for hotels, restaurants, and local businesses. The event will also include community service projects with local youth organizations.

U.S. Army Bowl Connection

The IFA Super Bowl will be held in conjunction with the U.S. Army Bowl, which has been hosted in Frisco for over 20 years. This creates a full week of championship football and provides additional exposure for IFA athletes.

"Having both events in the same week amplifies the experience for everyone involved," notes Commissioner Kramer. "Scouts, coaches, and sponsors who come for the Army Bowl will now also see the best of independent youth football."

Registration and Qualification

The 2026 season will be the first qualifying year for the IFA Super Bowl. Member leagues must register their teams and participate in regional competitions to be eligible. Complete qualification rules and tournament brackets will be announced in May 2026.

"This is the moment independent youth football has been waiting for," says Commissioner Kramer. "A true national championship at an NFL facility—proof that independent leagues belong on the biggest stages in American football."

About The Ford Center at The Star

The Ford Center is a 510,000-square-foot indoor athletic facility located in Frisco, Texas. It serves as the indoor practice facility and headquarters for the Dallas Cowboys and hosts major sporting events, concerts, and community activities. The facility opened in 2016 as part of The Star development.

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

The Star / Dallas Cowboys
Media Relations
Email: media@dallascowboys.com

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