Website: https://www.lionsallstarfootball.com/
District 4-A1 Chairperson: Elizabeth Gibbs Olson
Email: olsonelizabeth11@gmail.com
The “Lions All Star Football Game” became a district project in 1973 and the first central California Lions All Star Football Game was played in 1974 at the University of the Pacific Stadium in Stockton, California. The Lions All-Star Football Game is one of the oldest “All Star” football games in the state of California. Prior to 2020, the Lions All Star Football Game housed their players and coaches. Since 2021, this game has been a commuter game. District 4-A1 clubs prepare meals for the players after each practice during the week leading up to game day. Our unique experience provides these players and coaches with an unparalleled opportunity to learn integrity, leadership skills, form life-long bonds and friendships as well as the ability to learn how to get along with others.
Many of these players have been rivals starting long before high school in the pop warner leagues. Players are graduating high school seniors who are nominated by their coaches. The players are selected from the high schools located within the eight-county Central California area that makes up District 4-A1.
The final selection is done by a committee of coaches who review game films provided by the high school coaches. Those who receive the highest ratings are then invited to play.
This event gives graduating seniors an opportunity to display their talents in a post-season game and to give them recognition in their communities. Many who have played have gone on to excel in athletics in their college and university careers. Some have played professional football. We raise our funds from the Lions Clubs by selling ads in the program annually, supporting a local high school player or players with a sponsorship, selling t-shirts & programs, a food booth, and from generous donations from our corporate sponsors.
- November-January: selection of coaches for the game
- January-February: selection of players for the north and south teams (the coaches from the local high schools review the tapes)
- March-April: players press banquet (introduction of the players to the press and public)
- April-May: advertising sales for the program for the game
- June or July: game day
