The initiative, led by a group of local mothers headed by Kassie Damcott, reached its goal thanks to contributions from more than 15 local businesses, organizations and individual donors.

Among the largest donations were $2,000 contributions from the Betts Foundation and Kylie and Nathan Harris, which helped push the campaign to its fundraising target.

“Our family believes strongly in the health, safety and well-being of our children and youth,” Kylie Harris said. “Thank you to everyone who played a part in making this initiative possible.”

Beginning this season, the WCYFL will require Guardian Caps during both practices and games. While the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association has not mandated their use at the middle and high school levels, the protective caps will be available to any player on the Beaty and Warren Area High School Dragons football teams who chooses to wear one.

Pictured from left to right are Warren Area High School Head Coach, Jodi Baum, Kassie Damcott and Tyler Fitch, Warren County Youth Football League President and coach.

According to the National Football League (NFL), players from all 32 NFL teams wore guardian caps for practices and preseason games beginning in 2022. Testing done by the organization showed a 50% reduction in severe head injuries occurred for those who wore the caps.

In 2024, the NFL reported its lowest number of concussions since tracking began in 2015 with credit for this achievement going to the Guardian Caps.

Organizers said the effort reflects the community’s commitment to improving player safety and supporting youth athletics.

“I truly cannot express enough how thankful we are for the businesses and individuals that have contributed over the last six months,” Damcott said. “We could not have done this without all of you.”

Donors supporting the initiative include Warren County FOP Lodge 83, American Legion Post 135, Fitch Disposal, ADM Welding, Inscale Architects, John Branch, Barnhart Davis Company, Warren Sports Boosters, Mt. Laurel Federal Credit Union, Pennsylvania General Energy, AMVETS Sugar Grove, Elks Lodge No. 223, Shults of Warren, Jones Chevrolet, Kylie and Nathan Harris, the Betts Foundation, Casella and Johnson’s Tire Service.