Cardinals to celebrate Maricopa’s youth on Sunday

On Nov. 11, the Arizona Cardinals will be acknowledging the commitment that 170 of Maricopa’s youth made to domestic violence awareness.

The Maricopa Youth Football League is being hosted by the Cardinals at the University of Phoenix Stadium when they take on the Detroit Lions. Throughout the game, the young football players will be acknowledged for their commitment to domestic violence awareness on the jumbotron.

“It is great to see the kids be recognized for their pledge to stopping cycles of abuse.” said Richard Shirato, Maricopa Youth Football League coach. “I cannot thank the Arizona Cardinals enough for helping us instill positive values in our young players.”

During the month of October, the 170 children, ages 6-14, in the Maricopa Youth Football League wore purple ribbons on their helmets, read and signed a pledge to end violence against women and attended a community domestic violence awareness event.

“I think it is very important not only to sign the pledge, but to live by it.” Keegan Cope, eight-year-old youth football leaguer said. “Football is known for being violent and I do not want to be thought of as a violent person.”

“It is important that today’s youth understand the importance of domestic violence.” Mayor Kelly Anderson stated. “We [the City of Maricopa] are proud that the Maricopa Youth Football League supported domestic violence awareness month and are honored that the Arizona Cardinals will be recognizing these youth for their commitment to being role models in the quest against violence.”