Russell County Youth Sports
Russell County Youth Sports was founded on a simple belief: every child deserves the opportunity to learn, compete, and grow in a positive environment, regardless of their background or financial situation.
Under the leadership of Founder and President Rodney Council, Russell County Youth Sports has become more than an athletic organization—it has become a family dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders. Rodney also serves as the Founder and President of the Russell County Junior Warriors, Russell County Youth Basketball & Cheer, Russell County Youth Girls Flag Football, and Russell County Youth Boys Flag Football & 7-on-7 programs.
As a proud U.S. Army veteran, Rodney has experienced both success and adversity throughout his life. Those experiences instilled the values of discipline, leadership, accountability, and service—principles that have become the foundation of every program within Russell County Youth Sports. His vision has always been to use athletics as a platform to teach life lessons that extend far beyond the playing field.
More Than Sports
At Russell County Youth Sports, winning is important, but it is never the only goal. Every athlete is encouraged to grow as a student, teammate, leader, and responsible member of the community.
Our organization emphasizes:
- Leadership Development
- Character Building
- Mentorship
- Sportsmanship
- Family Involvement
- Community Service
- Personal Growth
Everything we do is centered on preparing young people for success both on and off the field.
Our Mission
Our mission is to build stronger athletes, stronger families, and stronger communities through sports, mentorship, leadership, training, and service.
We are committed to providing a safe, structured, and competitive environment where every athlete has the opportunity to develop confidence, discipline, integrity, and lifelong friendships.
Our Core Values
Everything we do is guided by these principles:
- Integrity
- Respect
- Accountability
- Discipline
- Leadership
- Teamwork
- Sportsmanship
- Family
- Community Service
These values shape our athletes into leaders who understand that success comes through commitment, responsibility, and putting the team before themselves.
Our Motto
"We Before Me – Built Through Family and Teamwork."
This motto is more than a slogan—it's the culture of our organization. Every coach, volunteer, parent, and athlete is expected to work together with one common purpose: helping every child reach their full potential.
Building a Lasting Legacy
For Rodney Council, the greatest victories aren't measured by championships or trophies. They're measured by the lasting relationships built throughout the community.
Whether it's hearing a young athlete call out, "Hey, Coach!" at the grocery store, or having a parent share how the program has impacted their child, these everyday moments serve as reminders that Russell County Youth Sports is making a difference. Being recognized as someone who has positively influenced the lives of young people throughout Fort Mitchell and Russell County is a legacy that means far more than any title or championship.
Looking Ahead
As our organization continues to grow, our commitment remains the same: to provide every athlete with a positive experience while developing future leaders who will make a lasting impact in their schools, families, and communities.
We are proud to stand alongside the other organizations within the South Alabama Youth Football League as partners in strengthening youth sports and creating opportunities for the next generation.
At Russell County Youth Sports, we're not just building athletes—we're building character, leadership, and community.