Pop Warner Celebrates 50 Years of 'Wildcat Football Pride'

Kick off for the Wilmington Pop Warner season is still a few months away. But the kick off of a season of festivities is right around the corner.

A Friday night event marks the first of multiple celebrations of the 50^th anniversary season of Wilmington Pop Warner, with event organizers hoping to pack Knights of Columbus Hall for the fundraiser.

“Wilmington Pop Warner has a longstanding tradition in the town,” said board member Christine MacKenzie. “This is a celebration of 50 years of giving kids a sport to play that they love. This basically marks 50 years of Wildcat football pride.”

Musician Jim Plunkett headlines the event, which will also include several 50-50 raffles. Doors open at 8 p.m., and organizers are hoping to sell out tickets.

According to MacKenzie, the lessons learned by Pop Warner participants in town over the last five decades go far beyond the gridiron.

“We like to watch them grow on and off the field,” said MacKenzie. “There is a huge amount of pride in being an active part of the community and watching our kids grow and learn to play the game.”

Tickets can be purchased for $15 in advance by calling MacKenzie at (978) 430-0875, or by e-mailing her. Residents can also purchase tickets for $20 at the door, though MacKenzie strongly recommends purchasing tickets in advance.

MacKenzie said it amazes her each year to see just how many people give up their time for the football and cheerleading seasons as participants, coaches, and volunteers.

“The reality behind it is that the board alone would never be able to keep Pop Warner alive,” said MacKenzie. “It’s the support of the coaching staff, the families, the players, and the community that has kept Pop Warner alive for the last 50 years.”