In a pivotal board meeting for the Denver Broncos Foundation during training camp last August, a groundbreaking philanthropic initiative was born. The primary owners of the Broncos, Greg Penner and Carrie Walton Penner, posed a challenge to the board after a presentation on football helmets by the CEO of USA Football. They proposed a plan to provide every high school football program in Colorado with top-of-the-line helmets, incorporating cutting-edge technology to enhance player safety.
This visionary idea led to the creation of the All In, All Covered campaign, which aims to donate 15,516 new Riddell Axiom helmets to high school programs across the state over a four-year period. The total donation is valued at approximately $12 million, including smart helmet technology and a Riddell Sideline Device. This initiative marks the largest philanthropic investment in the history of the Broncos organization.
The distribution of helmets will be based on the average roster size of each classification, with Class 5A programs receiving 100 helmets, and Class 4A, 3A, 2A, 1A, 8-man, and 6-man teams receiving varying quantities. The impact of this donation goes beyond financial relief for high school programs, as it also prioritizes player safety on the field.
Each helmet will be custom-fitted through a 3-D scan and equipped with sensors to provide valuable data for coaches to analyze player performance. The reconditioning and recertification costs associated with the helmets will be the responsibility of individual schools, but the savings over four years are expected to be significant. Coaches estimate savings of around $40,000 to $50,000 for their respective programs.
The Broncos’ commitment to community outreach and philanthropy has been a longstanding tradition, with a focus on supporting youth programs like the Boys & Girls Club. This latest initiative underscores the team’s dedication to making a positive impact beyond the football field.
The selection of the Riddell Axiom helmet, a top-of-the-line model used in college football and the NFL, reflects the Broncos’ commitment to providing the best possible equipment for high school athletes. This investment in player safety aligns with the team’s overall goal of success both on and off the field.
As the All In, All Covered campaign unfolds over the next four years, it is expected to benefit tens of thousands of high school players and have a lasting impact on football programs across Colorado. The Broncos’ continued investment in philanthropy and community initiatives demonstrates their commitment to making a difference in the lives of young athletes and their communities.
