Denver Broncos Launch Groundbreaking Helmet Initiative for High School Football
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — A recent move by the Denver Broncos aims to tackle two critical issues hindering high school football participation. During a board meeting in August, team owners Greg and Carrie Penner delved into the pressing concerns of cost and safety in the sport. This prompted the innovative idea to provide free helmets for every high school player across Colorado.
In a moment of inspiration, the Denver Broncos Foundation collaborated with Riddell and the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) to bring forth the initiative called, “ALL IN. All COVERED.” This program will give out over 15,000 helmets to tackle football teams statewide, ranging from six-man teams like Kit Carson to larger ones such as the 5A Cherry Creek squad, covering a total of 277 schools.
Like the impressive $175 million training center currently being built and the $100 million in upgrades at Empower Field at Mile High, the helmet project stands as the largest philanthropic investment the Broncos have made in their history. This venture reinforces their commitment to enhancing the game at all levels, especially after advocating for Colorado to be the 11th state to sanction girls flag football.
According to Carrie Walton Penner, the initiative aligns with the Foundation’s core values of equity and innovation. She emphasized the initiative’s goal to positively affect student-athlete health and safety and highlighted the collaboration with Riddell and CHSAA in making this possible.
The Broncos will distribute the high-quality Riddell Axiom smart helmets, equipped with advanced safety technology, over a span of four years, starting from 2025. Each helmet retails for over $750, making the entire investment nearly $12 million when considering additional safety analytics and staffing costs.
In the first year, participating schools will receive starter kits with maintenance tools, visors, face masks, and more. CHSAA Commissioner Mike Kruger expressed gratitude towards Broncos ownership for their generosity in launching such an impactful program, stating that this will benefit high school football for years to come.
For those interested in learning more about the initiative, further details can be found at the dedicated microsite allinallcovered.com, which will continuously update throughout the program’s even distribution among schools, coaches, and athletes.
