Testimonials
“Through PAL’s tackle and flag programs my son Brantley has learned communication skills, teamwork, following directions, peer support and stability and overall he has learned true friendship and family.”
Samantha Reid, 2026
“Five years ago, my husband and I signed our boys up for the PAL Boxing Program thinking it would be a temporary outlet—something to help them build confidence and burn off some energy. We never imagined that five years later, we would still be involved and that it would become such an important part of our family’s life.
Over time, the program has become so much more than just boxing for us. My husband is now one of the coaches, and I’ve proudly taken on the role of the team’s “boxing mom.” Watching our once shy and timid boys grow into confident, social, and motiva
ted young athletes has been incredible. Their self-esteem has improved, they interact more easily with other kids, and we’ve even seen their grades improve as their discipline and focus have grown.”
Amy and Jessie Robichaud, 2026
“The SJSO PAL program has made a meaningful difference in the lives of our youth — not just as athletes, but as young men and women developing discipline, character, and purpose.”
Mike Manchester, Former Coach/Current Parent
“Our experience with PAL Sports Program has truly been a blessing for our family. Since joining, my kids have not only grown as athletes but as confident, well-rounded individuals. PAL creates such a positive and encouraging environment that makes every child feel included and supported.”
Katie Jones
“My son has played Winter and Summer flag football for St John’s PAL for 4 seasons now. As a family, we have really enjoyed the experience. We wish the seasons lasted longer.”
John Sprowles
“If you’ve ever stood on the sidelines on early Saturday mornings with a cup of coffee watching your child play, you know exactly how special PAL is.
As a PAL mom, I am so incredibly grateful that St. Johns County provides something this safe, organized, and affordable for our families. Not every child knows what sport they’ll love — and PAL gives them the chance to try different things, build confidence, and find their place without putting financial strain on parents.
But it’s more than just sports.
It’s friendships. It’s teamwork. It’s the coaches who show up consistently. It’s the lessons about respect, hard work, and resilience. It’s watching your child grow — not just as an athlete, but as a person.
One of the most powerful moments as a parent is seeing your child encouraged to push past their fear and just try. And then, when it doesn’t go perfectly, watching them be given the opportunity to try again — and eventually succeed. That confidence doesn’t stay on the field. It follows them into school, friendships, and life.
PAL gives our kids structure, positive role models, and a place to belong. As a mom, there is so much comfort in knowing your child is somewhere safe, supported, and encouraged.”
Jessica Hurtubise
“Since 2019, my children have been proud members of the St. Johns County Police Athletic League, and it has truly been an incredible experience for our family. From tackle football and flag football to cheerleading and summer camps, PAL has provided them with amazing opportunities to grow, learn and thrive in a supportive environment.”
Amy Evans
“Both my children play sports for PAL. My son, Hunter has been with PAL since 8U all the way up to 12U and enjoyed every bit of it. My daughter, Sadie is in sideline cheer and comp cheer and loves every bit of it. We are ready for next, love how organize pal is with the kiddos.”
Stephanie Younger
“Our son, Dylan, was in the boxing program for only a few months, participated in 2025’s Fight Night, won, and has enjoyed the sport since. Granted he is somewhat aged out but the connections in PAL and St. John’s Sheriff Office really set the steppingstone into his career with the Sheriff’s Office. PAL will forever hold a special place with our family from the wonderful experience we had!”
Stefanie Flemmens
“Our family is so grateful for the impact PAL has had on our son, Logan. Through PAL he has played T-ball and flag football, and now he’s getting ready to start baseball. Each season has helped him grow not only in skills, but in confidence, teamwork, and friendships.
PAL has given Logan a safe and encouraging place to learn the value of hard work, sportsmanship, and being part of a team.”
Rachel Wiggins & Family
“Our family has proudly been a part of PAL for the past four years, and it has been a true blessing for all of our children. We have three boys who have participated in many of the sports PAL offers, including T-Ball, Summer Flag, Winter Flag, Fall Tackle, Spring Tackle, and Basketball. Each season has become something our whole family looks forward to.”
The McDuffie Family
“Our family has been part of PAL for years, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the positive impact it’s had on our three children. Between tackle football, flag football, cheer, and the summer camps, each child has had an opportunity to grow not only as an athlete but as a person. PAL’s dedicated coaches and volunteers create a supportive environment that teaches teamwork, discipline, confidence, and sportsmanship. We’ve watched our kids thrive—making friends, building skills, and coming home excited after every practice and game. Through PAL, our children and our family have made lifelong friendships that go far beyond the field. The variety of sports and camp opportunities keep them active and engaged year-round, and we truly feel like part of a community that cares. We wholeheartedly recommend PAL to any family looking for quality youth sports experiences.”
Ashley Rorex
“Our family is so grateful to be part of PAL. We started with PAL T-ball last spring and continued with summer flag football and winter flag football. We are looking forward to the Spring season of Baseball and eventually starting Tackle Football in the Fall. Every season has been consistently well run, organized, and welcoming, exactly what you hope for in a youth sports program.”
Kelly Nunez
“My son has been with the PAL Program for the second year. I am so thankful for my son to be in PAL. A few years ago, I lost his father in a horrible car accident and I knew that my son needed good positive role models. I wanted him involved in sports to keep him active and busy and I knew as a single mother it would be very expensive for me to provide this for him. I really don’t know where we would be without this amazing program and all the support that they give to our family. I am so thankful to have this in our community and hope that more families reach out and bring their kids there to have an amazing experience like we have had.”
Eliscia Pesapane
“We have been a part of PAL for the last 5 years. Both of my boys play flag and tackle. It has become more of a second family. We love PAL and can’t wait to see the new complex completed. Thank you, PAL.,”
Laura Byles
“PAL is an amazing program for the Youth of St. John's County. We moved here four years ago, and I didn't know if our son, who’s on the autism spectrum, would be welcomed like on the small island of Kauai. Well, he was welcomed with open arms and open minds. Teaching the true sense of community for youth of diverse backgrounds IS a true sense of community at its best! Our coaches were impeccable and went the extra mile to help when necessary. Creating awareness for humans with autism and instilling inclusion showed the youth how to be stand up individuals and only added to their character. Can't wait til next year!”
Cynthia Henry-Keener
“This was the first year my son has participated in any PAL Sporting Program and it has been a very positive experience. Coach Carlos coaches from the heart and provides structured training, sports professionalism, and sets high standards for character on and off the field.”
Kelly Divoulo