The Hastings Youth Football Camp will give younger players a chance to learn the game, sharpen their skills and spend a few summer evenings on the field with Hastings High School football coaches and players.
The 2026 camp is scheduled for June 29, June 30 and July 1 at Todd Field. The camp will run from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on the first two nights, with a 7:30 p.m. finish planned for Wednesday, July 1.
The camp is free of charge and is open to all youth who will be entering fifth through eighth grade next school year. It is designed as a no-pads camp, giving players a chance to focus on fundamentals, movement, instruction and teamwork without the full-contact feel of a padded practice.
Hastings High School football coaches and players will work with the kids during the camp. For younger athletes, that means a chance to learn directly from the people involved in the high school program. For the high school players, it is also an opportunity to help build excitement around Raider football and connect with the next group of young players coming through the program.
Campers should wear workout gear and football cleats, and each player should bring a personal water jug. The camp also includes a little extra incentive, with free Raider gear listed as the reward for participants.
While the camp is non-padded and physical contact will be kept to a minimum, organizers note that there is always a risk of injury. Medical staff will not be on hand, and parents are encouraged to attend and watch the camp.
Weather will also be handled with common sense. Families are asked to use their own judgment if they think it is safe for their child to attend each night. The camp will not run during practice time if lightning is occurring. In cases of high heat, organizers plan to protect kids with extra water breaks and activities that are less physically demanding.
Questions about the camp may be directed to Dana Strain or Tom Fritze.