ROCHELLE — Derek Johnson has worked with the Rochelle Junior Tackle program for eight years, and having grown up in the Hub City, Johnson enjoys having the opportunity to give back to the community as president of the local youth football organization.

“My wife volunteered me for flag originally and it all spiraled up from there,” Johnson said. “I like being involved… I went to school here so I know staying involved ensures that my kids will have a program to look forward to which they’re doing right now.”

Players took the field at Helms Park this past week for their first practices of the 2018 season. With games beginning in less than two weeks, Johnson is looking forward to watching the next generation of Rochelle football players develop.

“We receive a lot of fan support from the city and seeing the community come together is something I really like to see,” Johnson said. “Seeing the kids play and watching all of the work they and the coaches put in come to life during games is something I really enjoy too.”

There are four teams that represent the Junior Hubs in tackle football each year, one for each grade level between fifth and eighth. Each team carries upwards of 20 players, and each player receives the opportunity to grow their skills be being part of the tackle program. Rochelle hosts Princeton on Saturday, Aug. 11 at Helms Park for its first games of the season.

“Our coaches are big on teamwork because football is a team sport,” Johnson said. “The kids learn discipline because the kids need to listen or else they can get hurt or get somebody else hurt. The program keeps them active, even if football isn’t their primary sport, and the program keeps them focused.”