Elkhorn Athletic Association and Boys Town Pediatrics Announce Partnership to Increase Inclusivity in Play
Tuesday, January 18, 2022
Boys Town Pediatrics and the Elkhorn Athletic Association (EAA) have announced a special, multi-year partnership agreement that will ensure metro-area children who have developmental and physical challenges can enjoy greater access to sports and play opportunities.
The agreement makes Boys Town Pediatrics the exclusive pediatric partner of the MD West ONE Sports Complex and includes naming rights to the all-play field, a barrier-free and adaptive space located at the complex in western Douglas County.
“Recreational play is such a critical part of childhood and for young people's physical and emotional well-being. The Boys Town Pediatrics All-Play Field will allow every child, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities, to enjoy the thrill and fun of competition," said Jason Bruce, M.D., executive vice president of health care and director of Boys Town National Research Hospital.
In addition to the naming rights, Boys Town Pediatric specialists will provide free informational and educational programming to the community, including coaches, parents and players, at the complex's Learning Center. The programs will address a variety of health-related issues, such as concussions, seizures, anxiety and depression.
“It is an honor to have Boys Town Pediatrics committing to be the title sponsor for the barrier-free playing field for adaptive sports and having a Learning Center on the MD West ONE Sports Complex. They are incredibly committed and dedicated to enriching kids' lives, which is perfectly aligned to the EAA's organizational mission and the representation of what this complex will mean in our community," said Bruce O'Neel, EAA Executive Director.
For Boys Town, the partnership is an opportunity to reach more children and families who too often are marginalized or forgotten. The Boys Town Pediatrics All-Play Field will be a safe, inclusive space that celebrates children of all abilities.
“Our mission at Boys Town is to heal and strengthen the body, mind and spirit. Collaborating with youth sports in and around Omaha is a good example of how that mission is brought to life locally to make lasting and positive differences in the health and lives of kids and families," said Father Steven E. Boes, Boys Town president and national executive director.
The Boys Town Pediatrics All-Play Field is scheduled to open in 2023.
About Elkhorn Athletic Association
EAA is a non-profit youth sports organization dedicated to providing a safe, enjoyable and positive learning environment. EAA serves families with children of all ages and skill levels across the region, encouraging and supporting the holistic development of every child, teaching leadership and other essential skills, and inspiring athletes to seek excellence in all aspects of their lives.
About Boys Town Pediatrics
Boys Town Pediatrics has five clinics throughout metro Omaha and a team of board-certified pediatricians providing primary care, from routine well checks and same-day sick visits to care for complicated medical conditions. For children who need highly specialized care, Boys Town Pediatrics is backed by a team of pediatric specialists across a range of services, who are known for their accurate diagnosis, treatment and care for childhood injuries, diseases and disorders.
