PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, Md. — As the DMV continues to celebrate the great season the Washington Commanders are having, we are getting uplifted by some of our area's smallest warriors on the gridiron. The Peppermill Pirates are a 7U youth football team representing Prince George's County, and they're hoping to bring home a big trophy for their community.
The Pirates are Maryland state champions, and they are heading to the 2024 American Youth Football National Championships in Naples, Florida.
Many of the players are first-time players who continue to beat the odds both on and off the field. Young Damien wears the number 4 to honor his brother. He was also a youth football player who lost his life to gun violence.
Malik Matthews, aka "Coach Leek," says for these young kids, football is more than a game, it's a brotherhood. He wants these children to know they are loved and supported.
"I want to get them into the best schools they can be in. Basically guide them through life. All of them call me on the weekends. We're all on Facetime, group Facetime — 16 people, 20 people. It's just good that I can be a big brother," Matthews said.
The team could use your help. Matthews said they still need help with food, housing and transportation while in Florida. If you would like to show your support, the team has set up an online fundraiser. The team is hoping to raise $30,000.
If you would like to contribute, click here.
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