LANGHORN, PA – Local programs like Temecula Valley Pop Warner and Murrieta Valley Pop Warner continue to flourish as the organization undergoes new leadership to enhance its mission of fostering youth development in football, cheer, and dance.
Pop Warner Little Scholars, one of the nation’s most prominent youth sports organizations, is gearing up for a new chapter following a seismic leadership transition. On January 8, 2025, Pop Warner’s Board of Directors announced Steve Strawbridge Jr. as the organization’s new president and CEO. Strawbridge steps into the role following the retirement of Jon Butler, who served as an exceptional leader for 33 years. Adding more strength to its leadership team, Tim Glase has also been elevated to executive vice president and chief operating officer.
Strawbridge, only the fourth chief executive in Pop Warner’s nearly 95-year history, arrives with a long-standing reputation in sports management. Having previously served as chief administrative officer of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and director of merchandising for the Philadelphia Eagles, he brings a wealth of operational and strategic experience. From his role overseeing the annual Hall of Fame Enshrinement Week to managing the Ohio-based National Youth Football and Sports Complex, Strawbridge has demonstrated a significant commitment to sports development across all levels.
“When we began the search, we set out to find a leader who would embody the long-held values and vision of Pop Warner,” said Wynn Jessup, Chairman of the Pop Warner Board of Directors. “Steve brings an enormous wealth of relevant experience in the sports industry and a passion for youth development. His leadership will help us create new opportunities for young athletes in our football, cheer, and dance programs.”
Strawbridge expressed his excitement about shaping the futures of young athletes. “I’ve had the privilege of working at the pinnacle of athletes’ careers. Now, I’m thrilled to support the earliest stages of their journeys through sports, education, and character-building,” he stated. “Pop Warner’s mission is deeply meaningful to me, and I look forward to expanding its impact in communities across the nation.”
The addition of Tim Glase as COO further solidifies Pop Warner’s commitment to innovation and growth. Glase reflected on the organization’s momentum, saying, “Pop Warner has made groundbreaking progress in recent years. This is an exciting opportunity to build on that momentum and amplify Pop Warner’s value across its vast network of volunteers and participants.”
This leadership shift arrives as Pop Warner continues to provide remarkable opportunities for children aged 5–16 in football, cheerleading, and dance. From its emphasis on safety initiatives, such as limiting full-contact exposure in practices, to fostering academic excellence as a prerequisite for participation, the organization continues to set the gold standard for youth sports.
Pop Warner’s reach spans over 80 leagues comprising 850 local programs like Temecula Valley Pop Warner and Murrieta Valley Pop Warner. These local associations encourage youth development and family involvement, offering young athletes more than just a sport—they cultivate teamwork, dedication, and lifelong character skills. Both programs are currently open for registration, with further information available at tvpw.org and mvpw.org.
Beyond its local initiatives, Pop Warner also hosts landmark national events. Each December features the widely celebrated Pop Warner Super Bowl and Pop Warner Cheer & Dance Nationals, which gather teams from across the country for an unforgettable week of competition. With its new leadership, the organization aims to grow these programs further and extend their impact nationwide.
The transition of leadership underlines a pivotal moment for Pop Warner Little Scholars. By welcoming seasoned leaders like Steve Strawbridge and Tim Glase, the organization is well-positioned to carry forth its rich legacy while setting bold, innovative goals for the future. If the past 94 years are any indication, the future of Pop Warner—and the thousands of young athletes it nurtures—is as bright as it has ever been.
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