For the Franklin Regional Panthers football team and its Boosters Organization in Murrysville, Pennsylvania, football is about more than what happens under the Friday night lights. It is also about building character, serving others, and making a positive impact in the community.

For the second consecutive year, Franklin Regional Football is proud to partner with the Western Pennsylvania Miracle League. The partnership allows Panthers players to support athletes of all abilities while learning valuable lessons about compassion, teamwork, and responsibility.

The Panthers begin their involvement with spring cleanup, helping prepare the field and concession stand for the upcoming season. Throughout the spring and fall baseball seasons, Franklin Regional players participate in the Miracle League’s Buddy Program. They work alongside players on the field and at the plate, helping create a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

At the end of the season, Panthers players also take part in the Home Run Derby, where they help retrieve balls hit by Miracle League athletes. These experiences allow Franklin Regional players to see firsthand the excitement and pride that come from participating in sports.

The team chose the Western Pennsylvania Miracle League because its mission closely reflects the values Franklin Regional hopes to instill in its athletes. Football is important, but the Panthers want their players to understand that life extends far beyond the game. Through their involvement with the Miracle League, players have the opportunity to give back while supporting children and families in their community.

The Miracle League welcomes volunteers throughout its spring and fall seasons. Volunteers help make it possible for families to sit in the stands, cheer for their players, and enjoy the game. For anyone looking for a meaningful way to get involved, volunteering is a simple but powerful way to make a difference.

Franklin Regional is also expanding its commitment to inclusion through its own Annual Adaptive Football Camp. In 2026, under the leadership of Coach Johnson, the Panthers hosted the camp for the first time, welcoming people of all abilities to participate in football drills, games, and activities alongside Panthers players. With 30 participants in its inaugural year, the event demonstrated the power of community and the joy that comes from making sure everyone has a chance to play.

Coach Johnson plans to continue growing the camp each year, creating even more opportunities for athletes of all abilities to learn, participate, and feel included.

For the Franklin Regional Panthers, the goal is clear: build better athletes, better teammates and, most importantly, better people.