AZUSA, Calif. -- Azusa Pacific University will be host site of the NFL/National Football Foundation Coaching Academy, Saturday, July 23

More than 1,200 local youth coaches are expected to attend the all-day clinic in which skill and character development techniques are taught by clinic specialists.

Working with a nationally recognized team of coaches, sports psychologists and medical experts, the NFF, the NFL and the NFLPA have created a comprehensive curriculum that includes coaching philosophy, on-field strategy (offensive, defensive, and special teams), football skills, strength and conditioning, coach-player communication, program and team management, life skills development and player health and safety. The academy combines lectures with on-field demonstrations of technique and practice components for all levels of players.

The cost to attend the Academy is $30 per person, which also includes: a 511-page Coach's Playbook resource, a CD-ROM with moving depictions of different plays, an NFL/NFF Coaching Academy T-Shirt, lunch, and an official certificate verifying completion of the program.

Azusa Pacific is one of several sites throughout the United States that will be hosting an academy this summer. Other host institutions include the University of Arizona, Ohio State University, William & Mary College and numerous NFL training complexes, including those of the Ravens, Rams, Vikings, Chiefs and Patriots.

Interested coaches should contact Jim Brownfield, area president of the NFF, by calling 1-626-441-3986.