On Dec.16, the Browns welcomed eight Cleveland Muny Football League teams to CrossCountry Mortgage Campus for an end-of-year pizza party to celebrate their on-field successes during the 2025 season. However, the athletes were surprised with a specialized gift to add to the festivities – brand-new helmets for the 2026 season.
Through the HELMETS Program, presented by Meijer and in association with University Hospitals, the Browns worked behind the scenes to customize 10 Riddell SpeedFlex helmets for each team. Every helmet featured team colors, decals and stripes to ensure players were fully outfitted for next season.
After enjoying pizza, the athletes were gathered for the reveal. As the doors to the field house opened, they stepped onto the same turf where Browns players practice daily—eyes wide and smiles stretching ear to ear. Three tables were set up and draped with coverings to conceal the helmets.
Before the big reveal, representatives from Riddell spoke about the advanced technology behind the helmets and how the technology helps keep athletes safe. Team doctors from University Hospitals also shared important tips on health and injury prevention. Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for.
Browns defensive quality control coach Jeff Anderson and assistant wide receivers coach Stephen Bravo-Brown brought energy and encouragement, emphasizing the importance of education and accountability both on and off the field. Joined by Chomps, they led a countdown and pulled back the tablecloths to unveil the custom helmets. The athletes erupted with cheers and rushed toward the tables to immediately begin trying on their new gear.
The celebration didn't stop there. Running backs coach Duce Staley joined the group to congratulate the players and remind them that staying focused in school is the key to achieving their dreams. After photos and tossing footballs around in their new helmets, the teams left energized and ready for the 2026 season.
The helmet giveaway is one of the Browns' initiatives during the Browns' "Month of Giving," presented by Goodwill, which is an organizational tradition that allows individuals to make impactful contributions to deserving individuals and organizations.
To learn more about youth football programming and how to get involved, visit clevelandbrowns.com/youth-football to learn more.
