The New Orleans Saints opened their doors to aspiring coaches and service members alike, staging a combined youth coach certification clinic and a Battle of the Branches competition.
Training and Teamwork
The certification session, held on July 11, 2026, covered eligibility requirements, player safety protocols, CPR fundamentals, equipment fitting techniques and modern coaching strategies, equipping participants with tools to guide young athletes.
A week later, on January 29, 2026, the Saints partnered with Dudley DeBosier to host the Battle of the Branches, a lively showcase that pitted members of the Army, Marines, Air Force, Navy and Coast Guard against each other in a series of friendly contests.
Service members from each branch took part in challenges that tested strength, speed and precision, creating a vibrant atmosphere of camaraderie and mutual respect.
Saints legends Pat Swilling, Buford Jordan and Greg Fassitt joined the fray alongside current roster standouts Tyler Shough and Erik McCoy, adding star power and mentorship to the competition.
The event featured a tug‑of‑war showdown, a 40‑yard dash sprint and a field‑goal kicking contest, each designed to highlight different facets of athletic ability.
Beyond the scoreboard, the clinic and competition underscored the franchise’s commitment to community education, safety and the unifying power of sport, leaving a lasting impression on coaches, soldiers and fans alike.