Our History
Building Champions Since 1974
Del Rancho Pop Warner Football (formely Rancho Bernardo Pop Warner) has been a cornerstone of the San Diego community since its establishment in 1974, recently celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024. Over the past five decades, the organization has been dedicated to fostering youth development through football and cheerleading programs, emphasizing both athletic skills and personal growth.
A Legacy of Change and Tradition
Throughout its rich history, Del Rancho Pop Warner Football and Cheer has operated under various mascots and team names, reflecting the dynamic spirit of the program and its community. From the Colts and Chargers to the Pumas, Stingers, Renegades, Raptors, Toros, and most recently, the Broncos, each name has brought a unique identity and chapter to the program’s story. While the mascots have evolved, the league’s core mission has remained the same: to inspire young athletes through teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.
Building Character On and Off the Field
Del Rancho Pop Warner is part of the national Pop Warner organization, which emphasizes the importance of academics alongside athletics. Student athletes are required to perform adequately in the classroom before stepping onto the field, underscoring the belief that success in sports goes hand-in-hand with success in academics. The program also fosters character development by teaching values like perseverance, respect, and responsibility.
A Commitment to Safety and Excellence
Safety has always been a top priority for Del Rancho Pop Warner. The organization participates in USA Football’s Heads Up Football certification program, ensuring all coaches are trained in the latest safety protocols and techniques. The league has also adopted the HAWK Tackling system, a rugby-style tackling philosophy designed to promote safer play while maintaining the competitiveness of the sport.
Community at
Its Core
Del Rancho Pop Warner is a volunteer-driven organization, with parents, coaches, and community members dedicating their time to support the league. These volunteers create a nurturing environment that promotes teamwork, ethical play, and personal growth. Game days have become cherished events, uniting families and fans in support of their teams under a variety of mascots through the years.
Shaping the Future
Over the decades, Del Rancho Pop Warner has nurtured countless young athletes, many of whom have gone on to excel at the high school and collegiate levels. While the program has seen many changes, including its team names and mascots, its commitment to providing a safe, enriching environment for players remains steadfast. Today, as the Toros, the league continues its proud tradition, inspiring new generations to embrace the values of sportsmanship, academic achievement, and community.
Our History in Photos
