Aliquippa football to host second annual 'Train like a Quip' youth camp in May
Ethan Morrison- Aliquippa strength coach Colton Rossi is hosting his second annual free youth football camp, "Train like a Quip," on May 16.
- The camp, for kids aged 6-14, features former Beaver Valley and WPIAL high school stars, including headliner Pitt linebacker Cameron Lindsey.
- Participants will engage in drills, compete, and have opportunities for photos and autographs with coaches following the camp.
When Aliquippa football strength and conditioning coach Colton Rossi was hired in 2021, he wanted to give back to the community.
After a successful inaugural year of his youth camp “Train like a Quip” last year, Rossi is bringing the camp back on May 16.
“I enjoy doing what I do as a trainer, so to combine that along with letting the kids have fun, it’s a beautiful thing,” Rossi said. “I am humbled to put on this event again and have kids showcase their skills.”
Rossi will be joined by some of Aliquippa’s coaching staff, with Vashawn Patrick and Jaleel Fields helping out with the event.
On top of that, several former Beaver Valley and WPIAL high school football stars including the featured player Cameron Lindsey the former Aliquippa star and current Pitt linebacker will be attending the camp as a coach.
“These guys don’t have to do this and give back, but they do their part and help out. They are some of the greats at their position. When you have an opportunity to learn a running back drill from Rushel Shell and Tikey Hayes, that is a combo that you can’t even imagine creating,” Rossi said. “Having the chance to be a younger kid to learn from players like that can open their eyes. I am appreciative of all the players.”
Rossi knows that his time as a player out on the field has come and gone, but having the ability to train the next generation of players is something that the strength coach values.
Having those former and current local collegiate players also there to help with the camp, he knows that it is something the kids will cherish for a long time.
“I have the chance to train the guys that are coming up and watch them flourish. This gives me the chance to work with the younger guys, bring former players back that these younger players look up to,” Rossi said.
The camp is free of charge for children ages 6-14 at all skill levels across Western, Pa. Campers will get to run drills with the coaches to enhance their skills, physical fitness, compete with other campers, grow as an athlete and gain skills for the future. Prizes will also be awarded to the camp MVP.
Following the camp, individuals who participate have the opportunity to get their photos taken with the coaches and get autographs signed. Food will also be provided courtesy of the Darrelle Revis Foundation.
“This gives the kids the opportunity for these kids to elevate their skill set,” Rossi said. “They can prioritize a certain position at this camp that they want to get better at, and have the ability to talk to these great athletes at their respective positions and pick their brains. It is also great competition between the kids and gives them a chance to see what they’re good at and need to work on.”
Parents can register their child for the camp by emailing quipsnation1@gmail.com or filling out a form online. The Camp will run from 5-7 p.m. with registration beginning at 4 p.m. on May 16.