06/17/2026
This decision did not come easy.
After months of careful consideration, extensive research, countless meetings, and conversations with every available option, we have finally made our decision regarding the future home of Sharks football and cheer.
A little history.
The 302 Sharks spent our first two seasons competing in Delmarva AYF. In 2025, we were honored to be accepted into the historic Bert Bell Memorial League, one of the most respected youth football leagues in the region. During our first season, our 7U team advanced all the way to the championship game, and we looked forward to building upon that success for years to come.
Unfortunately, circumstances beyond our control changed everything.
With the unexpected closure of Bert Bell and no final resolution to the situation, our organization suddenly found itself searching for a new home.
Naturally, we anticipated a seamless transition into a neighboring league where every Bert Bell organization would continue competing.
That opportunity never came for the Sharks.
Before our organization was even given the opportunity to formally apply, we were informed that we would not be accepted. No meaningful explanation. No conversation. No opportunity to demonstrate the value of our athletes, coaches, families, and community.
While every other former Bert Bell organization was welcomed, the Sharks were left standing outside looking in.
For a brief moment, 150 young athletes and cheerleaders were essentially told they didn’t belong.
We refused to accept that.
We didn’t complain. We didn’t attack anyone publicly. We didn’t spend our time focused on closed doors.
We got to work.
Our board dedicated countless hours to meetings, league visits, scheduling discussions, competitive analysis, and evaluating what would provide the best experience for our families. Every decision was made with one goal in mind: giving our kids the structure, competition, and opportunities they deserve.
Today, we’re proud to announce that the next chapter of Sharks football and cheer will be written in Tristate United UYFL.
We want to sincerely thank the leadership and member organizations of Tristate United for welcoming us into the league. We look forward to building strong partnerships, competing with integrity, creating lasting relationships, and continuing to provide a first-class experience for our athletes.
To every family who trusted us throughout this process: thank you.
To every athlete who stayed committed despite the uncertainty: thank you.
And to everyone who doubted whether we belonged, thank you for the motivation.
See you on the field.
GO SHARKS! 🦈💙
