GALT, CA (MPG) - After a four-year hiatus and a year of planning, a group of volunteers have brought the Junior Warriors back to our city and the Galt High football stadium.

The Galt Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony last Friday to welcome the non-profit back into the fold. The cutting took place at a giant season kick-off party at Warrior Stadium including music, food trucks, specialty beverages, kettle corn, games, raffles and a host of activities. Of course, there were a few footballs being thrown around the stadium as the players ran around and had a good time.

They have joined the leadership of the Motherlode Valley Football League and adhere to their rules and bylaws.

Their first year coming back, they have over 100 football players and 34 cheerleaders. The four teams consist of: Jr. Novice: 1st & 2nd Grade; Novice: 3rd & 4th Grade; Jr. Varsity: 5th & 6th Grade; and Varsity: 7th & 8th Grade.

 Children in kindergarten can join as mascots. 

Noel Campos is the president of the newly formed organization and spoke at the ribbon cutting about what inspired them to bring the Jr. Warriors back.

“We saw a need in our town at the high-school-football level and decided to do something about it,” said Campos. “Our coaches and mentors are dedicated to facilitating the growth of our young athletes, both on the field and in life. Athletes will have the opportunity to gain football skills before they move up to the high-school level.”

Nicole Gross has been an integral part of the process and has volunteered countless hours as a board member.

 “We are beyond excited for the kids in our community,” said Gross. “We hit the ground running at the beginning of this year after the non-profit was formed late in December.”

“We are proudly wearing the Galt Jr. Warrior name,” exclaimed Gross. “Our aim isn’t just to shape great athletes, but to develop responsible and engaged community members who represent the future of this town.”

While their first games were this last weekend, their first home games will be on Aug. 31.

The game times are as follows for community members who would like to come out and support the teams.

Jr. Novice 12:30 p.m.

Novice 2 p.m.

Junior Varsity 4 p.m.

Varsity 6 p.m.

For more information visit galtjrwarriors.com.