Our Founder
AL KELLY - LAFA FOUNDER
Experience the evolution of a community's passion for football with L.A.F.A. Established in the late summer of 1958 by Al Kelly, L.A.F.A. began with a simple idea of providing a supervised program for youngsters to learn the fundamentals of football. From the ad in the local newspaper that produced eighty boys, L.A.F.A. has now grown into an organization that serves over 300+ boys and girls in West Chester and surrounding areas.
After over sixty years, L.A.F.A. is still going strong, with Mr. Kelly's dream having benefited thousands of young men and women. In 2021, L.A.F.A. expanded its horizons and created the West Chester Shamrocks, which joined the Independent Youth Football League (IYFL). The IYFL follows the same philosophy as L.A.F.A., providing multiple age-based teams with some groups having both competitive and developmental leagues. The competitive teams will compete for a playoff spot at the end of the regular season. The winner of the IYFL championship will advance to the AYF Regionals to compete for the national championship in Florida.
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, L.A.F.A. is run entirely by volunteers. Join us in the excitement of football and witness the growth of a community's love for the game with L.A.F.A. and the West Chester Shamrocks.
Registration Fee Assistance Program
At L.A.F.A., we strive to uphold Mr. Kelly’s belief that teamwork is an essential value taught through football. As a community-driven organization, we are committed to supporting any young person in our are who wants to learn and play the game. We are always here to provide assistance and answer any questions you may have. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us by filling out the form below:
Graduating 2021 Alumni Heading Places:
Yaden Cooper - Widener University
Jordan Goodwin - Widener University
Jack McAnally - Sacred Heart University
Our Awards
NATHANIEL C. MATTHEWS AWARD
"Nate"
Nate Matthews played L.A.F.A football from 1958 until 1961. A trophy donated by Nate's family is given annually to a graduating player who has displayed the following:
- The true meaning of sportsmanship
- Teamwork
- Respect for others
- Improvement of ability
Nate's goal in life was cut short by his death in Vietnam on August 10, 1971.
Throw this award his memory will always live on.
MICHAEL MALIN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
"Toad"
Michael played football for LAFA from 1976 until 1981. His commendable sportsmanship and athletic ability will always be distinctive qualities for young men to follow. Michael's death on February 11th, 1982 institutes the first scholarship afforded by LAFA. Since 1984, a $500.00 scholarship has been awarded to an East, Henderson and Rustin high school seniors who have graduated from LAFA.
DAWN SEMERAD CITIZENSHIP AWARD
Dawn Semerad was a cheerleading coach from 1995 to 2000. Her love for the girls and enthusiasm for the sport inspired the many lives that she touched.
Our citizenship award is given in honor of her to a cheerleader who demonstrates dedication, positive attitude, leadership qualities, and a true desire to reach her full potential both on and off the field.
Our Alumni
- Estaban Ramos - West Chester East
- Yaden Cooper - West Chester East
- Sincere Cooper - West Chester East
- Jordan Goodwin - West Chest Henderson
- Jack Capaldi - Malvern Prep
- Jake Falco - Tower Hill
- Eddie Smink - West Chester Henderson
- John Wileczek - West Chester East
- Joe Wileczek - West Chester East
