About

Established in 2020, Penn Hills Youth Football & Cheer Association has proudly been a part of the WYPAA.

The Western Youth Pennsylvania Athletic Association (WYPAA) provides young athletes with opportunities to develop their skills, compete in a structured environment, and foster a love for the game. Being part of such a league also emphasizes the importance of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.

Since our inception, we've grown not just in numbers but in spirit and camaraderie. Each season brings new challenges, triumphs, and memories that we cherish. We believe in the power of sports to teach valuable life lessons, and we strive to instill values such as dedication, discipline, and respect in our players.

Our dedicated coaching staff, supportive parents, and enthusiastic players & cheerleaders make up the heart and soul of PHYFCA. We are committed to ensuring that every player & cheerleader feels valued, encouraged, and ready to take on the field with confidence.

Our Mission...

is to instill in our youth life-long values of teamwork, respect, integrity, discipline, dedication, hard work, and good sportsmanship, while having fun teaching the fundamentals and skill development for the game of football in a safe and positive playing environment.

Board of Directors

Larry Fielder, President

Larry is a dedicated individual with a wealth of experience in both public service and community engagement. A proud Army veteran, Larry served in Iraq from 2003 to 2005, where he demonstrated exceptional courage and leadership under challenging conditions. Larry has also dedicated himself to shaping the future of youth through his passion for coaching. With 15 years of experience coaching youth football, Larry has had a profound impact on countless young athletes, teaching them not only the game but also the values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. His coaching style is rooted in respect, and he strives to be a positive role model for the youth he mentors.

Ashley Blakeman, Vice President

Ashley has been an invaluable member of our community, dedicating herself to the mentorship and character development of youth and families within our league. Since joining as a coach in 2021, Ashley has consistently gone above and beyond to create a positive, inclusive environment for every participant. Her approach to coaching emphasizes not only athletic skills but also the development of life skills such as teamwork, resilience, and discipline.

Kayla Babinsack, Secretary

Kayla is involved in our community. She believe in the importance of giving back and making a positive impact. Whether through volunteering, mentoring, or participating in local initiatives, she is dedicated to supporting the growth and well-being of our youth.

Chanell Jones-Harris, Treasurer

Kandyce Toliver, Cheer Director

Kevin Cooper, Jr., Athletic Director

Kevin serves as a Magistrate Judge for Homewood, East Hills, and Lincoln, where he has earned a reputation for fairness, integrity, and dedication to justice. With years of experience in the legal field, Kevin has become a trusted figure in the community. Kevin has been a passionate advocate for youth development throughout Allegheny County. For over ten years, he has actively supported several youth football programs, helping to provide young athletes with not only the skills needed to succeed on the field but also the values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance that extend far beyond sports.

Dr Tamara Allen-Thomas, Education Director

Dr. Allen-Thomas Currently the Superintendent of Clairton City School District. Served as Principal/Chief Academic Officer of at Penn Hills Charter of Entrepreneurship for nine years. She earned her Ed.D. in Leadership and Administration at Point Park, and Master's Degree in Public Policy and Principal Certification from Carnegie Mellon.

Akita Donald, Public Relations Officer

Akita is the Executive Director for Aaron Donald 99 Solutions Foundation and owner of AD99 Apparel. Through her role as Executive Director, she develops and oversees initiatives, programs, and events to support youth athletes. Akita also is a Professor at Slippery Rock University as well as a mental health therapist.