Key Takeaways

• US Sports Camps, the nation’s largest youth sports camp network, partners with University of Oregon Hall of Famer Anthony Newman for summer 2026 launch
• Nike Multi-Sport & Recreation Camps will serve ages 6-13 at Catlin Gabel School starting July 6, 2026
• Newman brings 12-year NFL career experience and deep Portland community roots to expand multi-sport access in Pacific Northwest
• USSC has operated Nike Sports Camps for 30 years and runs programs since 1975 under its sports education mission
• Partnership reflects growing emphasis on multi-sport development over single-sport specialization for youth athletes

Building Multi-Sport Access in the Pacific Northwest

US Sports Camps announced a partnership with Anthony Newman to bring Nike Multi-Sport & Recreation Camps to the Portland area beginning summer 2026. The camps will operate at Catlin Gabel School and serve children ages 6 to 13 across all genders.

Newman, a University of Oregon Athletic Hall of Famer and former NFL defensive back, spent 12 years in professional football with the Los Angeles Rams, New Orleans Saints, and Oakland Raiders. Before his NFL career, he earned First-team All-Pac-10 honors at Oregon and received national recognition as a baseball and football prospect at Beaverton High School.

The partnership gives USSC a recognized local figure to anchor its Portland expansion. “Partnering with US Sports Camps allows us to create an environment where every kid feels supported, challenged, and inspired,” Newman said. “I am proud to help bring a true multi-sport experience to Portland.”

Market Position and Operational Scale

US Sports Camps operates as the nation’s largest youth sports camp network and has served as the licensed provider of Nike Sports Camps for three decades. The company launched its first camps in 1975 and maintains its original mission of shaping lifelong enjoyment of athletics through sports education.

USSC operates under Youth Enrichment Brands, a network that includes i9 Sports (the nation’s largest multi-sport provider of youth sports leagues), SafeSplash Swim School (the world’s largest operator and franchisor of swim schools), and School of Rock (performance-based music education).

Dr. Nora Osei, Senior Director of US Sports Camps, emphasized Newman’s alignment with the organization’s philosophy. “Anthony reflects everything we believe multi-sport experiences can offer young athletes,” Osei said. “He is a teacher, a mentor, and a builder of community.”

Multi-Sport Development Strategy

The camp structure focuses on exposing young athletes to diverse athletic experiences rather than single-sport specialization. USSC positions this approach as supporting long-term athletic growth, creativity, and physical confidence.

Camps will offer activities designed to strengthen fundamental athletic skills while encouraging exploration of different sports. The programming aims to build a foundation for continued athletic participation rather than early specialization in one discipline.

Newman’s background as a multi-sport athlete reinforces this positioning. His high school career included national recognition in both baseball and football before he chose to focus on football at the collegiate level.

Strategic Implications

The Portland launch represents USSC’s continued investment in multi-sport programming with locally connected athlete partners. By securing Newman, USSC gains access to his community relationships and reputation built over decades in Oregon athletics.

The summer 2026 timeline provides nearly 18 months for marketing, facility preparation, and program development. Camp registration is available through the dedicated landing page at ussportscamps.com/welcome/anthony-newman/.

The partnership follows industry trends toward multi-sport participation for youth athletes, particularly in the 6-13 age range where skill development and athletic exploration receive increasing emphasis over early specialization.

Via: US Sports Camps

YSBR provides this content on an “as is” basis without any warranties, express or implied. We do not assume responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, legality, reliability, or use of the information, including any images, videos, or licenses associated with this article. For any concerns, including copyright issues or complaints, please contact YSBR directly.

About Youth Sports Business Report

Youth Sports Business Report is the largest and most trusted source for youth sports industry news, insights, and analysis covering the $54 billion youth sports market. Trusted by over 50,000 followers including industry executives, investors, youth sports parents and sports business professionals, we are the premier destination for comprehensive youth sports business intelligence.

Our core mission: Make Youth Sports Better. As the leading authority in youth sports business reporting, we deliver unparalleled coverage of sports business trends, youth athletics, and emerging opportunities across the youth sports ecosystem.

Our expert editorial team provides authoritative, in-depth reporting on key youth sports industry verticals including:

• Sports sponsorship and institutional capital (Private Equity, Venture Capital)
• Youth Sports events and tournament management
• NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) developments and compliance
• Youth sports coaching and sports recruitment strategies
• Sports technology and data analytics innovation
• Youth sports facilities development and management
• Sports content creation and digital media monetization

Whether you’re a sports industry executive, institutional investor, youth sports parent, coach, or sports business enthusiast, Youth Sports Business Report is your most reliable source for the actionable sports business insights you need to stay ahead of youth athletics trends and make informed decisions in the rapidly evolving youth sports landscape.

Join our growing community of 50,000+ industry leaders who depend on our trusted youth sports business analysis to drive success in the youth sports industry.

Stay connected with the pulse of the youth sports business – where industry expertise meets actionable intelligence.

Sign up for the biggest newsletter in Youth Sports – Youth Sports HQ – The best youth sports newsletter in the industry 

Follow us on LinkedIn

Follow Youth Sports Business Report Founder Cameron Korab on LinkedIn

Are you a brand looking to tap into the world’s most passionate fanbase… youth sports?

Introducing Play Up Partners, a leading youth sports marketing agency connecting brands with the power of youth sports. We specialize in youth sports sponsorships, partnerships, and activations that drive measurable results.

About Play Up Partners

Play Up Partners is a leading youth sports marketing agency connecting brands with the power of youth sports. We specialize in youth sports sponsorships, partnerships, and activations that drive measurable results.

Why Sponsor Youth Sports?

Youth sports represents one of the most engaged and passionate audiences in sports marketing. With over 70 million young athletes and their families participating annually, the youth sports industry offers brands unparalleled access to motivated communities with strong purchasing power and loyalty.

What Does Play Up Partners Do?

We’ve done the heavy lifting to untangle the complex youth sports landscape so our brand partners can engage with clarity, confidence, and impact. Our vetted network of accredited youth sports organizations (from local leagues to national tournaments and operators) allows us to create flexible, scalable programs that evolve with the market.

Our Approach

Every partnership we build is rooted in authenticity and value creation. We don’t just broker deals. We craft youth sports marketing strategies that:

• Deliver measurable ROI for brand partners
• Create meaningful experiences for athletes and families
• Elevate the youth sports ecosystem

Our Vision

We’re positioning youth sports as the most desirable and effective platform in sports marketing. Our mission is simple: MAKE YOUTH SPORTS BETTER for athletes, families, organizations, and brand partners.

Common Questions About Youth Sports Marketing

Where can I sponsor youth sports? How do I activate in youth sports? What is the ROI of youth sports marketing? How much does youth sports sponsorship cost?

We have answers. Reach out to info@playuppartners.com to learn how Play Up Partners can help your brand navigate the youth sports landscape.

Youth sports organizations: Interested in partnership opportunities? Reach out to learn about our accreditation process.

Congratulations to Terry Elkins of Mishawaka High School! He was voted by Tribune readers as the South Bend Tribune Student of the Week for Dec. 8. The school could not arrange a photo to be taken of Terry.

Winner: Terry Elkins, Mishawaka High School

Terry Elkins, Mishawaka High School: Terry is amazing and has grown up so much this past year. He is always looking for ways to help and to be kind! He moves desks when his friends in wheelchairs need room to sit and navigate the classroom. He reads and explains what he is seeing and experiencing to his one friend who is unable to see but is very interested in what is happening. I can always count on Terry to participate and to help others. He quietly avoids any negativity that may take place and even tries to solve situations in order to encourage others to feel better about themselves or the given situations. I am so proud of his progress and who he is becoming. Love that kid!

DANCERS PERFORM — The ballet class at the Sycamore Youth Center, above, performed for audiences to showcase what they learned during the fall semester. Dancers included, from left, front, Gretl Nelson, Faye Lash, Piper Manuel and Ellie Janik; and back, instructor Diana Tygett, Luna Dickey, Zoe Nelson, Teibe Banga and Laura Schlich. Students also included Eden Graham, Emmie Graham, Elise Graham, Miriam Zaleski and Geneva Terry. Below, students who took part in the jazz dance class and performed included, from left, Manuel, Lash, Tygett, Zaleski, Schlich, Cana Frank, and Dickey. Emma and Elise Graham took the class as well.
— Contributed

STEUBENVILLE — The Sycamore Youth Center held its end-of-semester ballet and jazz dance recitals Dec. 1, giving students the opportunity to showcase what they learned this fall in the center’s free programs. Classes are taught each week by longtime instructor Diana Tygett, whose dedication and encouragement have helped the young dancers grow in skill and confidence.

The ballet class performed a graceful routine demonstrating their progress in technique and foundational movement. Dancers included: Luna Dickey, Zoe Nelson, Teibe Banga, Laura Schlich, Gretl Nelson, Faye Lash, Piper Manuel, Ellie Janik, Miriam Zaleski, Geneva Terry and Eden, Emmie and Elise Graham.

Tygett shared how the ballet class focuses on technique and personal development.

“The girls learned basic ballet positions, technique and strengthening, while increasing their confidence and abilities,” she explained. “Watching them grow in grace, poise and courage each week has been a joy.”

The jazz dance class presented an upbeat routine featuring a variety of jazz styles and steps during the performance. Students taking the class included Piper Manuel, Faye Lash, Diana Tygett, Miriam Zaleski, Laura Schlich, Cana Frank, and Luna Dickey, Emmie Graham and Elise Graham.

Tygett emphasized the jazz class blends structure with creativity.

“The girls learned jazz techniques and steps to a variety of styles in a fun and engaging way,” she said.

Sycamore Youth Center Executive Director Bobbyjon Bauman praised the students and their instructor, saying, “We are incredibly proud of these young dancers and thankful for Diana’s outstanding leadership. Providing free arts opportunities allows children to develop their gifts in a supportive environment, and today’s recitals showed how much they have grown.”

The Sycamore Youth Center serves more than 500 kindergarten through 12th-grade students weekly through more than 40 free classes and programs, including dance, art, music, tutoring, leadership training and life skills.

The Crookston Youth Basketball Association’s (CYBA) 5th-grade girls basketball team went 3-0 and won the Sacred Heart Tournament on Saturday. 

They defeated Sacred Heart in the first round, won a close game against Riverside Christian in the second round, and beat East Grand Forks in the finals to claim the title.
Members of the team are Ashlyn Goering, Mireyah Magdaleno, Annie Kollin, Freya Brekken, Lily Griffin, Valor Klinnert, Penny Smith, and Evelyn Applequist.

Tags: and beat East Grand Forks in the finals to claim the title. 
Members of the team are Ashlyn Goering, Annie Kollin, Crookston 5th grade girls basketball team, Evelyn Applequist, Freya Brekken, Lily Griffin, Mireyah Magdaleno, Penny Smith, sports, The Crookston Youth Basketball Association’s (CYBA) 5th-grade girls basketball team went 3-0 and won the Sacred Heart Tournament on Saturday.  They defeated Sacred Heart in the first round, Valor Klinnert, won a close game against Riverside Christian in the second round

Donald E. Olsommer, Sr., 86, of Sterling, passed away peacefully on December 11, at the Hospice of the Sacred Heart Inpatient Unit in Dunmore, surrounded by his loving family.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Janet (Hinds) Olsommer.

Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late Felix C. Olsommer and Emily (Jones) Olsommer. He was a graduate of Greene-Dreher-Sterling High School, Class of 1958.

Prior to retirement, Don was the founder and owner of Olsommer-Clarke Insurance Group, established in 1972, with offices in Hamlin, Honesdale, and Moscow. He also owned and operated the Olsommer Tree Farm in Sterling. A man of deep faith, he served for 17 years as Pastor of Smith Hill United Methodist Church and was a lifelong member of Sterling United Methodist Church.

A United States Army Veteran, Don served with distinction for more than 30 years in the Pennsylvania National Guard, retiring with the rank of Major. He enlisted at age 18 in 1958 with the Honesdale National Guard and completed basic training at Fort Knox, Kentucky, and Fort Jackson, South Carolina. He initially served with the 109th Infantry in Honesdale, later transferring to the New Jersey National Guard, where he served with the 53rd Tank Battalion and became a full-time supply sergeant.

After completing officer training at the New Jersey Military Academy in Sea Girt, New Jersey, and Officer Candidate School at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, he advanced through the officer ranks. In 1971, he returned to Pennsylvania and served as company commander for National Guard units in Carbondale, Honesdale, Scranton, and Tobyhanna Reserve Unit.

Don dedicated much of his life to public service. He served the citizens of Wayne County as County Commissioner from 1980-1991 and again from 2004-2007. He also served as a Township Supervisor, Former Wayne County Republican Chairman, and was deeply involved in civic and charitable efforts throughout the community.

He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing, golf, and tending his tree farm. He was a gifted athlete in high school and remained a lifelong supporter of Delaware Valley and Penn State football. Don was passionate about youth sports, serving as a coach, and was a co-founder of Sterling Little League. He was inducted into the Wayne County Sports Hall of Fame, was a member of American Legion Post 807 and a 50 year member of the Salem Masonic Lodge #330.

Most of all, Don cherished time spent with his family.

Surviving in addition to his wife are his three sons: Donald E. Olsommer, Jr. and his wife Alene of Sterling; Pennsylvania State Representative, the Honorable Jeff Olsommer, and his wife Kelli of Sterling; and Keith Olsommer and his wife Mary Ann of Sterling; a sister, Helen Leahey of Georgia; grandchildren Phoebe, Betsy, Garrett, Mackenzie, Logan, and Liam; great-grandchildren Charli, Daisy, and Genevieve; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his twin brother, Ronald F. Olsommer.

A Funeral Service will be held Friday, December 19th at 11:00 a.m. at Sterling United Methodist Church, 567 Sterling Road, Sterling, PA. The service will be live-streamed on the James Wilson Funeral Home Facebook page.

Friends may call Thursday, December 18th from 3:00-7:00 p.m. at the James Wilson Funeral Home, 143 Gravity Road, Lake Ariel, and Friday from 9:30-11:00 a.m. at the church.

Private interment will be held at Fairview Memorial Park, Elmhurst.

Memorial contributions in Don’s memory may be made to Sterling United Methodist Church, PO Box 25, Sterling, Pa 18463 or the Smith Hill United Methodist Church, 305 Sunrise Ave. Honesdale, Pa 18431.

For directions, to share a memory, or to leave a condolence for the family, please visit www.jamesfamilyfunerals.com

England’s senior women’s team have been nominated for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year’s ‘Team of the Year’ award for 2025.

The Lionesses, who won a second successive UEFA Women’s EURO championship in July, will be up against the European Ryder Cup team who were triumphant against the USA this summer, and the England women’s rugby team who won the Rugby World Cup on home soil to complete a historic summer of women’s sport.

Voting is now open and will close during the live show, which takes place from 7pm on Thursday 18 December live on BBC One, the BBC iPlayer and BBC Sport website.

The news follows on from Lionesses’ Chloe Kelly and Hannah Hampton being nominated for the main award last week, along with Michelle Agyemang being a contender for ‘Young Sports Personality of the Year’.

Make sure you register your vote for the Lionesses now!