On a beautiful weekend at Georgetown University, Soldiers To Sidelines (STS), powered by Vehicles For Veterans, in partnership with The Washington Commanders and the U.S. Marine Corps, hosted a memorable Football Coaching Workshop and Skills Clinic that brought together service members, youth athletes, and community supporters. The event exemplified the powerful mission of Soldiers To Sidelines: bridging the military-civilian divide while empowering veterans to lead and serve through coaching.
The two-day workshop began with an intensive Coach-the-Coach program held at the Thompson Athletic Center. A select group of 10 Soldier Coaches, comprising veterans and active service members, engaged in leadership and coaching development sessions led by experienced professionals from collegiate and professional football. These workshops equipped Soldier Coaches with essential skills not only to run effective football practices but also to mentor and positively influence young athletes in their communities.
The highlight of the weekend was the free High School Football Skills Clinic delivered by the Soldier Coaches to student-athletes from Digital Pioneer Academy and Ballou High School. Fifty student-athletes participated, receiving hands-on instruction in teamwork, character development, physical fitness, and football fundamentals. The clinic featured dynamic drills for both offensive and defensive skills, creating an energetic and inspiring environment for everyone involved.
Sponsors played an integral role in making this event a resounding success. Vehicles For Veterans provided critical support that powered the entire weekend, while Wells Fargo, Gatorade, CVS Health, Wounded Warrior Project, and ZeroMils contributed essential resources that enriched the experience for all participants. These partnerships demonstrated a shared commitment to investing in underserved youth and supporting veteran leaders.
The U.S. Marine Corps added a special element to the event, leading team-building exercises that tested the athletes’ resilience, teamwork, and leadership under pressure. These activities fostered camaraderie and reinforced the values that both military service and sports share: discipline, perseverance, and mutual respect. Adding to the day’s excitement, the world-renowned U.S. Marine Corps Silent Drill Team delivered an incredible halftime performance that left the crowd in awe, showcasing precision, discipline, and the highest standards of military excellence.
Adding even more star power and inspiration to the clinic, Washington Commanders Legend Kevin Barnes joined the coaching staff, sharing his expertise and motivating the young athletes with his wealth of NFL experience. The Washington Commanders’ beloved mascot, Major Tuddy, also made a special appearance, bringing energy, fun, and plenty of photo opportunities to keep spirits high throughout the day.
One of the most inspiring moments came during the VFV Check Presentation, where Vehicles For Veterans reaffirmed their commitment to supporting programs that serve veterans and local communities. The enthusiasm from sponsors, volunteers, coaches, and student-athletes created a palpable sense of unity and purpose throughout the event.
This weekend was more than just a football clinic; it was a vibrant example of how service members continue to serve their country even after their military careers, finding new purpose through coaching and community engagement. The Soldier Coaches left not only with new coaching experience but also with a renewed sense of mission and connection to their communities.
Soldiers To Sidelines, together with its dedicated partners, continues to demonstrate how sports can be a powerful vehicle for positive change. As the echoes of cheers and encouragement fade from the Georgetown fields, the impact of this workshop will resonate far beyond the weekend, as both Soldier Coaches and student-athletes carry forward the lessons of leadership, teamwork, and resilience.
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