The Papillion Lavista Youth Athletic Association (PLYAA) pulls students from elementary and middle schools in the Papillion La Vista district, as well as schools in Omaha, Nebraska. Currently, the PLYAA runs two 7v7 teams for every grade from 3rd to 8th grade, and their numbers are growing as more students and families get involved. As this is only the organization’s second year competing in 7v7 football, they have plenty of room for growth.
Throughout the 7v7 season, the PLYAA teams compete weekly on Monday nights against other teams from their conference, giving them a regular set of opponents for games. Besides these weekly games, the team has participated in travel tournaments, and is planning to join more. According to coaches, traveling and playing in tournaments is an aspect of 7v7 the students seem to really enjoy. Besides being able to express themselves on the field as they practice and improve their skills, they’re given the chance to experience new places and meet new people. Getting to play (and win!) inside Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs, is one moment in particular that the students are sure to never forget.
Of course, playing 7v7 isn’t just about traveling: it’s about the sport. For the PLYAA, 7v7 football in the spring has made a real difference for their students come the fall. With more time to practice and develop closer bonds as a team, students come back to football in the fall excited to play and better than ever. By offering a fun, fast-paced way to play football in the spring, 7v7 has given the members of the PLYAA a way to stay engaged with the sport year-round.
As the team continues to grow, both in skill and number of players, the PLYAA will continue providing great opportunities for students to fall in love with and learn the game of football. Understanding the importance of being competitive while also making the game fun for young players, the PLYAA is sure to be a staple of 7v7 football in the state of Nebraska.
For more information about the Papillion La Vista Youth Athletics Association or to get into contact with them, check out their website and socials below:
Website: https://www.plyaa.org/
X: @PlyaaF