About Us

The Lakewood Jr. Spartans Youth Association, Inc. (LJS) was established in 1972 as a charitable organization designed to benefit the youth within the city of St. Petersburg, Florida. LJS is registered with the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) organization.  Currently serving over 400 youth annually, LJS strives to make an impact on the lives of the participants and the community as a whole.

LJS blossomed under the leadership of people like Ernest Givins Sr., Loretta Givins, Dorothy Harvey, Dorthy Norfleet, Donald Grimm, and Earnest Green. These people represent only a few of the individuals involved in the development of the LJS organization. 

Our success on the football field led many of our alumni onto successful careers in college and pro athletics, and ultimately in life. Aveion Cason (running back for Detroit Loins), Shaun King (football analyst on ESPN First Take), Ernest Givins (former NFL great with the Houston Oilers),Pat Watkins (Dallas Cowboys), Tim Carter (wide receiver-St. Louis Rams), Frank Peterman (former State of Florida Congressman), Louis Murphy Jr.(Tampa Bay Buccaneers), Jaylann Wimbush (North Dakota State), and Marquez Scantling (USF) illustrate some of the Lakewood Jr. Spartans Alumni.

During the 90’s, we transitioned from a sports-only program to sports and academic development. LJS always encourages athletes to do well in school and periodically monitors the academic success of each athlete. We also partner with parents to help our kids succeed on and off the field.  Through the volunteer efforts of many people, and the receipt of goods, services, and finances from our community, we are able to provide a program that builds character, pride, and integrity in our athletes. Our goal is not only to provide participants with football and cheerleading skill development but also to develop the skills needed to address everyday life issues and encourage model citizenship.

Our board of directors, coaches, and other volunteers look forward to working with you, your children,
and our community partners to experience a historical year.  Our goal is to:

~Consistently involve and communicate with parents regarding various aspects of the organization and activities.
~Provide youth with caring coaches who understand the stages of the child’s development.
~Provide an overall quality program that you will be PROUD to be a part of.

Come and experience a season of excitement, fun, and growth!

Volunteers are greatly needed and appreciated!

Come out and help us “Serve the kid, the whole kid, and nothing but the kid.”