Coming out of COVID, the program nearly folded. Equipment was outdated. Registrations dropped. The mission teetered. That’s when NFL star Austin Ekeler’s foundation stepped in with a $10,000 grant — not just a lifeline, but a validation. Then, the Humboldt Park Patriots did what they’ve always done: got back to work.

They rebuilt from scratch. Re-established the board. Took on the chaotic world of youth football in the city — leagues plagued by age cheating, poor scheduling, and a lack of standards. But instead of folding again, the Humboldt Park Patriots innovated. They created systems, held kids accountable, and started winning not just on the field — but in the lives of the young people they serve.

Their players fueled a playoff run at Roberto Clemente High School. Four former Patriots earned All-Conference honors. The pipeline was real. The proof was undeniable. And still — they practiced on borrowed fields. No lights. No goalposts. No home.

Until now.

In 2025, after years of grassroots effort, strategic leadership, and relentless advocacy, the City of Chicago, Ald. Jessie Fuentes, and the Park District made it official: a permanent football field will be built in Humboldt Park — exclusively for the Patriots.

https://austinekeler.com/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPPh7NzWG3I

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