Chuckie Magee Flag Football & Cheerleading League —an Aaron’s Acres Program

When people think of Aaron’s Acres, they often think about young children at summer camp, and although this is a large part of what we do, there are more programs and opportunities available throughout the year. One of these programs is Chuckie Magee Flag Football & Cheerleading League.

Throughout the years parents have requested programs for their children beyond the age of 21. In response to the increased need for programs after high school for individuals with disabilities, Aaron’s Acres began offering its first adult sports program in the fall of 2022. Aaron’s Acres is always looking for ways to expand its programs and accommodate the growing needs of the community and adding Chuckie Magee Flag Football & Cheerleading League was just the first step in offering adult programs to individuals with disabilities.

Chuckie Magee attended Aaron’s Acres’ camp program when it was first established in 1998. Chuckie’s mom, Bev, was a member of the founding committee of Aaron’s Acres. Chuckie greeted everyone with a huge smile and a warm embrace. He “just had to say hi” to everyone and make them feel comfortable at Aaron’s Acres! He was a camper for many years and passed away in 2015 at the age of 23. His memory remains with so many in the community. Having fun, being with friends, feeling excited and being happy describes Chuckie, and also describes this program. 

The flag football and cheerleading league offers participants with disabilities, ages 21-40, the chance to socialize and have fun with peers. Flag football players and cheerleaders also have the opportunity to practice skills like teamwork.

The program takes place at Manheim Brethren in Christ Church over 10 weeks in the fall. Games are held on Saturday mornings from 10AM to 12PM.

This season we had almost 30 registered participants and more than 10 season volunteers. Participants are split into 2 teams (or more, if needed) and play against each other for the duration of the 2-hour period, with a break for halftime. During halftime, cheerleaders take the gym for a halftime performance for attending parents and families. Coaches work with flag football players to run plays, follow the rules of the game, and navigate the field on defense or offense. Coaches work with cheerleaders on cheers, introductions, and a halftime performance. Everyone can participate in a little friendly competition with the Penny Wars fundraiser, and we even have picture day!

The season ends with a banquet to celebrate all the players, cheerleaders, coaches, and volunteers who have joined us for the season. The 2023 banquet is just a few short weeks away and we are looking forward to celebrating our second season of Chuckie Magee Flag Football & Cheerleading League!

We are excited to see this program evolve, and we cannot wait to see what’s in store for next season.

We are so happy that the co-founders of Chuckie Magee Flag Football & Cheerleading League, Randy and Bev, have found a home with us at Aaron’s Acres. We look forward to welcoming more flag football players, cheerleaders, volunteers, and families in the years to come.