The conference takes place April 24th – 26th. Tickets are on sale now for VIP reception and Conference tickets are available by request starting March 27th
DETROIT (March 27, 2024) – NFL legend Jerome Bettis, known as the “Bus,” joins forces with Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan (BGCSM) to unveil the BGCSM 3C Sports Conference, in collaboration with The Jerome Bettis “Bus Stops Here Foundation,” on April 24th – 26th, 2024. The event begins with an exclusive VIP Reception on April 24th, followed by two days of workshops focusing on traditional and tech sports. VIP tickets are currently available for purchase here.
This innovative conference features tracks for youth sport coaches, players, and parents and provides them with the knowledge and tools needed to “reclaim youth sports.” Workshop topics include Name Image Likeness (NIL), mental health for athletes and coaches, and the over monetization of youth sports.
“Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan is proud to be the most innovative and disruptive force in youth sports. This is a pivotal moment for BGCSM and our 3C Sports programs as we bring together NFL legends, influencers and thought leaders, with a common goal of taking back the game for our youth,” said Shawn H. Wilson, president and CEO of BGCSM. “We are honored to partner with Jerome Bettis and the Bus Stops Here Foundation to bring a world class experience to the youth sports community! Jerome’s authentic commitment to changing the game for future generations in tech and sports is both powerful and inspiring.“
Held in conjunction with the NFL Draft in Detroit, the conference will host prominent coaches, players, and sports professionals, offering attendees a draft watch party experience. Anticipating nearly 1,000 participants, the inaugural event promises enriching workshops and activities.
“It’s an honor for my Bus Stops Here Foundation and me to be a part of the BGCSM 3C Sports Conference. Together, we’re not just talking about change – we’re actively pursuing it,” Jerome Bettis. “As a unified team, we’re ready to inspire the next generation of athletes, coaches, and sports professionals, fostering a positive impact in our communities. I couldn’t be prouder or more excited to be involved, especially amidst the NFL Draft festivities in my hometown of Detroit, Michigan.”
Noteworthy conference elements comprise an NFL Draft Viewing Party, appearances by The W.O.W. Cyber Bus, and the Tech Sports Hub featuring drone activations, Autonomous racing, and EGaming stations.
The Conference Kickoff event will be held at the Garden Theater on Wednesday, April 24th from 6 p.m.–9 p.m., with subsequent activities taking place at the Diehl Boys & Girls Clubs and Dauch Boys & Girls Clubs in Detroit, MI, on Thursday and Friday from 4 p.m.–10 p.m.
This dynamic event, supported by the Ralph C. Wilson Foundation, and Project Play, will emphasize fostering healthy Community, Culture, and Competition within youth sports.For more information and ticket purchases, visit the official landing page.
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About Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan
Founded in 1926, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan (BGCSM) serves 15,000 youth, families, and entrepreneurs annually in neighborhoods throughout Southeastern Michigan. BGCSM has reimagined the future of after-school programming by focusing on the root cause of issues facing our community, which is poverty. BGCSM’s mission is to ensure youth leave our Clubs career, start up and homeowner ready.
About Jerome Bettis
Jerome Bettis is a Super Bowl Champion and Pro Football Hall of Famer. He is among the best NFL running backs of all time. Bettis is also among one of the nine NFL players in its history who rushed for 13,000 yards. In January 2006, Jerome finished his NFL career after 13 seasons. He immediately retired after the 21-10 win of Pittsburgh Steelers on the Seattle Seahawks in his hometown, Detroit, in the Super Bowl XL game.
About Bus Stops Here Foundation
The Jerome Bettis Bus Stops Here Foundation is working to provide education, sports, technology, and recreational opportunities to the underprivileged youth of the inner-city. We aim to help them improve their quality of life through our mentoring and programs to become enlightened, healthy, skilled, and productive individuals.
Through our resources and experienced assistance, we provide financially challenged youth with a sense of purpose, motivation, and confidence, which helps them put their optimal efforts forward in whatever they do in their lives.
For on-site Interview Requests: Antonice Strickland; (734) 812-4423, antonice@98Forward.com