As the chief financial officer of New 2ND Capital in New York City, Kate Merli manages transactions, audits, and cash flow on all investments. And every fall, Kate Merli roots for the New England Patriots professional football team.
The Patriots recently awarded 33 grants to high school and other youth teams throughout New England. Each grant is worth up to $1,000 and provides a range of athletic equipment and uniforms to young people in financial need. The Patriots made the grants in partnership with USA Football and the NFL Foundation.
USA Football, an organization that oversees America’s youth football programs, will provide funds totaling $1.5 million for 2019. Since 2006, the organization has given some $14 million to about 500,000 players around the country.
Its corporate sponsors donate such items as uniforms (Badger Sport), tackle football equipment (Riddell Sports), and practice aids (Gilman Gear, Tackle Tube, and Shadowman Sports). Additional items include flag football equipment, wearable tech (Catapult), and background checks (Peopletrail).
USA Football holds a seat on the US Olympic Committee and operates teams for international competition. It promotes safe participation in the sport by building alliances with medical providers and child advocacy organizations.
Working alongside USA Football is the National Football League Foundation. The foundation pools the resources of the league’s 32 franchises to enhance the safety and wellness of players.
