Kodiak Partners with Youth Sports Alliance to Enhance Youth Athletic Programs in Utah

Kodiak and Youth Sports Alliance: Empowering Young Athletes Together

In a bid to foster healthier lifestyles among children, Kodiak and the Youth Sports Alliance (YSA) have launched their third consecutive partnership. This initiative aims to provide thousands of students in Utah with enhanced access to sports and wholesome nutritional options. Known for its whole-grain and high-protein breakfast and snack products, Kodiak is dedicated to fueling not just bodies but also active lifestyles.

The collaboration focuses on expanding YSA's popular afterschool programs—Get Out Play and ACTiV8—now including the Salt Lake City school district. These programs are designed to motivate students to embrace healthier living while instilling values such as sportsmanship and teamwork. Kodiak's support as the title sponsor will ensure that children across Summit, Wasatch, and Salt Lake counties can partake in these enriching experiences.

Over the past year, participation numbers have surged significantly, with 3,231 young athletes engaging in 184 afterschool programs, marking a 25% increase from the previous year. Impressively, 41% of these participants benefited from scholarships or discounts, a substantial rise from the past figures of 21% to 25%. This growth demonstrates the meaningful impact Kodiak and YSA are making in the community.

Cory Bayers, Chief Marketing Officer at Kodiak, shared the excitement of this partnership. “Partnering with YSA is deeply significant for us. We recognize how these programs bolster our communities, providing kids from diverse backgrounds access to sports, mentorship, and healthy habits.” Kodiak's contribution not only involves financial resources but also delivery of its nutritious whole grain products that will support students in various activities—from snowboarding to mountain biking.

The YSA has long been a pillar in the community, serving over 3,500 youths annually and engaging them in afterschool sports and health-driven initiatives. Established as a legacy of the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, the YSA aims to increase youth participation in winter sports and beyond. Their proactive approach also addresses financial hurdles, ensuring that every child, regardless of their family's financial situation, can join in on the fun.

Executive Director Emily Fisher commented on the significance of their mission: “We aim to introduce kids to sports in a way that builds confidence and a sense of belonging. Our partnership with Kodiak allows us to reach more families and supports our goal of making winter sports accessible for every child.” This ethos has garnered recognition from notable organizations, including the Aspen Institute and the President's Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition.

The renewed partnership represents a commitment to continue broadening horizons for Utah's children, fostering a love for sports while simultaneously offering the essential nutrition needed to fuel their activities. Kodiak's high-protein, whole-grain products will be available to students across 31 different schools in the greater Park City and Salt Lake Valley area, propelling them towards healthier lifestyles and lifelong habits.

As we continue to witness the positive ramifications of this partnership, it is clear that Kodiak and YSA are dedicated to shaping the next generation of athletes. Together, they are not just promoting sports participation but also nurturing a culture of health, inclusivity, and exploration—elements essential to the holistic development of young individuals.

For further details about their efforts, you can explore their respective websites at KodiakCakes.com and ysausa.org, or follow them on social media @kodiakcakes and @youthsportsalliance.