2026 Tryout Schedule
2026 Tryouts will be located at Metro Youth Football Association in Cedar Rapids at 1100 A'Hearn Dr. NE
Dates:
8/9/26 - Non-padded Tryout 1
8/23/26 - Non-padded Tryout 2
9/20/26 - Padded Tryout
Parents will need to register their kids for the tryout. You will receive an email once you register with more details.
Important Tryout Information:
- Coaching and instruction during tryouts will be provided by area high school coaches and former Division I college football players
- Open to all Eastern Iowa athletes entering 6th, 7th, or 8th grade for the 2026 season
- Participation in at least one non-padded tryout and one padded tryout is required for team consideration
- Players are encouraged to attend all tryout sessions, but attendance at every session is not required
- Tryout cost is $50
- All tryout participants will receive an Iowa Gridiron Elite t-shirt
What Players Should Bring:
Non-Padded Tryouts
- Cleats
- Athletic clothing
- Water bottle
- Mouthpiece
Padded Tryout
- Helmet
- Shoulder pads
- Practice pants
- Cleats
- Mouthpiece
- Any additional football equipment needed
Equipment Information:
- Players are expected to provide and bring their own football equipment
- Most players may use their middle school-issued equipment for the padded tryout
- If a player cannot use school-issued equipment, Iowa Gridiron Elite may be able to provide temporary equipment for the padded tryout
- Equipment fitting/pickup must be scheduled well in advance
- Equipment availability is limited
- All borrowed equipment must be returned immediately following the tryout
Additional Information:
- Coaching and instruction during tryouts will be provided by former Division I college football players
- Team invites and roster decisions will be communicated via email
- Limited roster spots are available at each grade level