For two decades, former Valley Christian High School football coach Mike Machado has turned a simple idea into a summer staple: a two‑day camp that lets people with Down syndrome experience the thrill of the gridiron. What began as a modest gathering on a local field has grown into a beloved tradition that draws participants from across the country, from Pennsylvania to Hawaii, and even from Mexico.
A Legacy Built on Inclusion
The camp’s mission is straightforward: give campers the chance to be on the field rather than just cheering from the sidelines. Over the years, the program has inspired countless volunteers and athletes, including a camper named Andrew Watson whose enthusiasm left a lasting imprint on generations of Valley Christian players. Alumni like Collin Johnson return each summer, citing the camp’s impact on their personal growth.
Beyond the local community, the camp has become a featured event on Valley Christian’s summer calendar, offering an authentic football experience that blends skill drills, games, and a Q&A session with guest athletes. The program’s reach extends far beyond the Bay Area, touching lives in ways that statistics alone cannot capture.
NFL Connections
This year’s edition featured a surprise appearance by five members of the San Francisco 49ers, who led drills and answered questions from the campers. The 49ers’ involvement is not new; former 49ers coach Steve Mariucci once mentored Machado, and the franchise has long supported the camp’s mission. Their participation underscores a broader partnership between the team and the Valley Christian program, a relationship that dates back to Machado’s early coaching days.
The camp’s influence stretches across the country, with participants traveling from distant states to join the festivities. Whether it’s a 12‑year‑old from Pennsylvania or a 50‑year‑old from Hawaii, each camper walks away with new skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging that transcends the football field.
Looking Forward
Although Machado has stepped down as the school’s head football coach, his commitment to the camp remains unwavering. He plans to keep the event running, ensuring that future generations of campers can experience the same joy and community that have defined the program for 20 years. The hope is that the camp will continue to serve as a model for inclusive sports initiatives nationwide.