USA Football is taking its Heads Up Football program to the grass roots level on Saturday and Sunday.

The Associated Press reported that the amateur football organization announced Wednesday it would use 21 trainers across the country this weekend to teach proper tackling techniques in football.

Among the youth coaches taking part will be former Atlanta Falcons linebacker Buddy Curry; Chuck Kyle, head coach at Cleveland’s St. Ignatius High School, winner of 11 Ohio Division I state titles and three USA Today national championships; and John Roderique, head coach at Webb City (Mo.) High School, winner of eight state championships and formerly an assistant with NCAA Division II national champion Pittsburg State University.

“Youth leagues have a tremendous opportunity in 2013 to adopt USA Football’s Heads Up Football program,” Cincinnati Bengals coach Marvin Lewis said. “USA Football has earned my trust — they put the safety of our kids first and offer the training youth coaches need to be exceptional teachers.”

The Heads Up Football program also has been a proponent of education of leagues for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, concussion protocols and proper fitting of helmets and pads.

“Heads Up Football promotes a safer, better game,” USA Football Executive Director Scott Hallenbeck said. “We are proud to have this group help us lead America’s youth football community as Heads Up Football master trainers, helping to set the highest standards of player safety and coaching education in any youth sport.”

For the complete press release on this weekend’s clinics, click here: 02 27 Master Trainer national release.

– Bill Bradley, contributing editor