Running a youth sports league isn’t easy. Between competition from other programs, unpredictable weather, and financial hurdles, league operators work tirelessly to keep opportunities alive for kids in their communities. For Reginya Greene, founder of The Elite Zone in Florida, this past season almost didn’t happen.
With families still feeling the effects of hurricanes in the area and a tough economy, enrollment had dipped significantly—just 35 kids had signed up, a far cry from the 200+ players they typically see. The sponsorships that normally helped bridge the gap had also fallen short.
“We were way under where we needed to be,” Reginya said. “At one point, we thought we’d have to cancel or only run the season for the youngest age groups. We just weren’t seeing the numbers.”
Then, Toyota stepped in.
Through its nationwide partnership with NFL FLAG, Toyota is helping youth leagues across the country expand access to the game. As part of this initiative, Toyota’s local dealership provided The Elite Zone with a top-tier sponsorship package—just in time to turn things around.
The funding allowed The Elite Zone to lower registration fees, making it easier for families to sign up, and cover jerseys for half the players, easing the financial burden on parents.
In addition, Toyota provided game-day essentials like tents and feather flags, giving the league a more professional feel. To kick off the season, the dealership even hosted a launch event, turning sign-up day into a full-fledged community celebration.
“As a nonprofit, we rely on sponsorships to make our programs accessible,” Reginya said. “Toyota’s support allowed us to lower registration fees, which meant more kids could play.”
That launch event was a game-changer. Toyota cleared out its service center, filled it with NFL FLAG swag, set up games for the kids, and brought in food trucks—all sponsored by the dealership. Even the Tampa Bay Buccaneers joined in, sending cheerleaders to pump up the excitement.
Toyota’s impact went beyond just keeping the flag football season alive. Their support helped strengthen The Elite Zone’s programming, ensuring they could continue growing and providing new opportunities for kids. Alongside their NFL FLAG league, Reginya and her team are also expanding their pro-league partnerships, including bringing Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Leagues into The Elite Zone.
“Basketball has always been a part of my life,” Reginya said. “When we saw Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Leagues announced at the NFL FLAG Summit, we knew it was right for us.”
With the addition of Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Leagues, The Elite Zone is continuing its mission to provide high-quality, affordable sports programs for kids in the community. The goal isn’t just about playing games—it’s about giving kids access to structured, well-run programs where they can develop skills, build confidence, and stay active.
Without Toyota’s support, The Elite Zone’s winter season might not have happened at all. Instead, they were able to grow their registration numbers, provide kids with gear, and create an exciting, community-driven experience.
“This is exactly the kind of impact we want to see,” said Josh Kincaid, Manager of Marketing Partnerships at RCX Sports. “Toyota’s support doesn’t just help a single season. It helps leagues create sustainable opportunities for kids to play.”
Want to help bring more opportunities to young athletes? Whether you’re looking to start a league, support a program, or explore partnership opportunities, RCX Sports is here to help. Join us in expanding access to high-quality youth sports.
Click here to learn more and get involved.