Northeast Alabama – In a recent interview with the Shasta Jones, Chris Marturello, President of Northeast Alabama Youth Athletics (NEAYA), shed light on the vital role this organization plays in fostering youth sports and community support across the region. Serving as the umbrella league for youth football programs, NEAYA encompasses all of Calhoun County and teams from Talladega, Etowah, and Cherokee Counties.
Marturello explained that NEAYA comprises 15 leagues and 45 teams, organized into two divisions: Big School and Small School. The Big School division includes leagues from Lincoln, Oxford, Anniston, Alexandria, Jacksonville, Hokes Bluff, and Cherokee County, while the Small School division features Munford, White Plains, Ohatchee, Wellborn, Saks, Weaver, Pleasant Valley, and Piedmont.
Central to NEAYA’s success are the volunteer coaches, who dedicate their time and resources to the program. Marturello emphasized the importance of these individuals, stating that they serve not just as coaches but also as mentors and role models for the young athletes. “These volunteers are crucial because they represent the only way this all works,” he said.
NEAYA serves youth athletes aged 5 to 13, divided into three age groups: Sophomores (5-7 years), Juniors (8-9 years), and Seniors (10-12 years). Athletes do not have to try out; as long as they meet the age requirements, they can join.
Marturello shared how NEAYA aims to instill pride in its players. This year, they introduced bracelets featuring the inscription “Philippians 4:13,” reminding athletes of their potential and faith. “We want every kid to know that they are enough and can do anything when they have Christ on their side,” he explained.
When news broke about Chase, a young football player from the Wellborn youth league who suffered severe burns, NEAYA quickly mobilized to offer support. Marturello described how the organization decided to donate profits from the bracelet sales to assist Chase and his family. “Immediately, in the first weekend, people showed out,” he said, highlighting the community’s outpouring of support.
During a recent game between Munford and Wellborn, representatives from Munford presented Chase’s senior coach with a card and funds raised by their community, showcasing the unity within NEAYA.
NEAYA is also planning a food and necessities drive, creating a friendly competition among leagues to gather essential items for local families in need. The winning league will be rewarded with a pizza party, fostering community spirit while helping those less fortunate.
Additionally, NEAYA will host an All-Star game as a toy drive, encouraging participants to bring a new, unopened toy or make a $5 donation for entry. Last year, this event raised nearly $600 and helped fulfill the holiday wishes of approximately 50 children in the community.
Looking ahead, NEAYA is considering organizing an outdoor Christian concert for the youth, aiming to provide a memorable experience that reinforces their commitment to faith and community.
Marturello encouraged the public to support NEAYA’s initiatives by reaching out to local youth leagues or contacting NEAYA through their Facebook page or email. “Every dime raised will go directly to the community,” he noted.
For parents interested in registering their children for NEAYA sports, Marturello advises visiting local leagues, as registration is conducted through them. The organization also has plans to sponsor families in need during the holiday season, with 100% of fines collected from leagues directed to this cause.
Through its dedication to youth athletics and community support, NEAYA continues to make a significant impact across Northeast Alabama, fostering not only athletic skills but also values of kindness, empathy, and teamwork.
Photos Courtesy of Northeast Alabama Youth Athletics (NEAYA)
