Xpress Youth Football & Cheer Builds Confidence, Community, and Champions
When you ask anyone involved with Xpress Youth Football and Cheer what sets them apart, you’ll likely hear the same thing: “We’re not just a team—we’re a family.”
Founded in 1994 by North Smithfield residents James Ison and James O’Donnell, Xpress was built on a foundation of personal sacrifice and deep commitment to youth sports. O’Donnell even took out a personal loan to fund the initial equipment needed to get the league off the ground. That spirit of selfless dedication still defines the program today.
Now a thriving cooperative effort between North Smithfield and Blackstone, Xpress has grown into a powerful example of what local collaboration can achieve. With around 250 athletes ranging from ages 4 to 14, the league offers flag football and cheer for the youngest participants and tackle divisions for older youth. Athletes from both towns—and even nearby communities like Woonsocket and Smithfield—find a home in the Xpress family.
A Community-Rooted, Athlete-Driven Program
Xpress Football and Cheer is run entirely by volunteers and guided by a passionate Board of Directors, many of whom are Blackstone residents. Gino Olaes, who currently serves as President, is clear on the program’s mission:
“We focus on building a strong culture where every child has the opportunity to grow—not just as an athlete, but as a person.”
The organization lives that mission by offering year-round support, scholarships for families in need, and a firm belief that no child should be left on the sidelines due to financial hardship.
At the heart of the program are values like accountability, respect, hard work, and teamwork. “We don’t promote self-gratification,” Olaes adds. “Everything is earned.”
Connecting Youth to Their Future
Xpress Youth Football & Cheer serves as a direct feeder program for both Blackstone-Millville Regional (BMR) and North Smithfield High School (NSHS), fostering a seamless transition for young athletes into high school sports. The collaboration with NSHS has been particularly fruitful, characterized by joint practices, visiting coaches, and student volunteers, creating a robust mentorship pipeline.
In efforts to enhance collaboration with BMR High School, Xpress has proactively engaged with the BMR School Committee and Superintendent. These discussions have opened new lines of communication, laying the groundwork for a stronger partnership. Gino Olaes, President of Xpress, expressed optimism about this development:
“We’re encouraged by their receptiveness,” Olaes says. “Our dream is to one day play a home game on the BMR field and help our Blackstone and Millville kids feel pride in what could be their future home.”
A Season of Growth—and a Historic Win
The Xpress Football & Cheer season typically begins in late July, with older divisions practicing four nights a week until school starts, then transitioning to three nights per week. Games are held on Sundays, with regular seasons ending in late October and playoffs extending into mid-November. All practices take place at the Paul Kelly Complex (“The Meadows”), a central location near the intersection of North Smithfield, Blackstone, and Woonsocket.
In November 2024, the season culminated in a historic moment: Xpress’s Junior Peewee football team captured the program’s first-ever Super Bowl title, defeating Johnston at LaSalle Academy. This win marked a milestone nearly three decades in the making and was a powerful reflection of the dedication of players, coaches, and volunteers alike.
While the victory was meaningful, Olaes stresses that wins are not the ultimate measure of success.
“Winning is great, but seeing older athletes mentoring younger players—that’s what it’s all about.”
This culture of team-first values, character-building, and community support defines Xpress’s approach to youth sports—and ensures that every season brings growth, both on and off the field.
Cheer Tradition Rooted in Excellence and Inclusion
Xpress Cheer has long been a source of pride for the program, with teams earning multiple state titles across various age levels and building a legacy of excellence that continues to thrive. But the heart of Xpress Cheer goes beyond trophies—it lies in the spirit of mentorship, confidence-building, and belonging.
Thanks to meaningful connections with local high school cheer programs, including volunteer coaches from North Smithfield High, younger athletes benefit from mentorship and real role models who inspire and guide them. Whether a child is just learning their first cheer or preparing for competition season, the Xpress Cheer environment encourages growth at every level, balancing skill development with emotional support.
The program also maintains a deep commitment to inclusion, ensuring that every child—regardless of background or experience—has the opportunity to participate, progress, and shine. From first-time participants to future high school athletes, Xpress Cheer offers a space where confidence takes root and community takes center stage.
Registration, Support, and What Comes Next
Xpress Football & Cheer has experienced significant growth in recent years, with many divisions filling quickly. Online registration for the 2025 season is open now through August 1, or until team capacity is reached—families are encouraged to sign up early to secure a spot.
Here’s a breakdown of 2025 registration fees:
- Flag Football & Flag Cheer (Ages 4–6): $100
- Tackle Football (Ages 7–14): $175
- Cheer (Ages 7–14): $210
- Family Discount: 50% off the third child registered
To register your child or learn more:
- Visit: xpressfootball.squadfusion.com
- Website: xpressfootball.com
Xpress also welcomes sponsors, volunteers, and donors. A current fundraising effort is underway to purchase top-rated, 5-star safety helmets—a testament to the program’s commitment to player safety.
To learn more or get involved, reach out at xpressfootballcheer@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page.
For Families on the Fence
Not sure if football or cheer is right for your child? Olaes encourages parents to look beyond the short term.
“How a child performs at 8 doesn’t determine who they’ll be at 12 or in high school. We believe in the process. Growth takes time, and the lessons learned—discipline, patience, resilience—are the ones that stick.”
With nearly 30 years of service, Xpress Youth Football & Cheer continues to prove that when a community comes together for its kids, the result is far more than wins and trophies. It’s confidence. It’s connection. It’s family.
This story is part of our ongoing Youth Sports Spotlight series, where we highlight the incredible work of local leagues, coaches, and volunteers shaping the next generation. Xpress Youth Football & Cheer stands as a powerful example of what happens when passion, teamwork, and community come together to support young athletes—and there’s much more ahead.
Information courtesy of Gino Olaes, President of Xpress Football & Cheer.
