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Dolphins and Baptist Health Impact Over 800 Student-Athletes

Dolphins Baptist Health 800

Miami Dolphins


MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. – The Miami Dolphins youth football programs, in partnership with Baptist Health, impacted more than 800 student-athletes and coaches across Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties during the 2025–2026 academic year. Programming included surprise equipment donations, football skill development initiatives and coaching education opportunities.

“Continued support of youth across South Florida is incredibly important to the Miami Dolphins as we understand the responsibility we have in helping develop the next generation of athletes and leaders,” said Miami Dolphins Vice President of Community Affairs Kim Miller. “We do this through year-round programming that prioritizes education, access and opportunity, and we are grateful to our partner Baptist Health, who shares that same commitment to stewarding local student-athletes and growing the game safely.”

The year of programming began with the Junior Dolphins Combine presented by Baptist Health, which welcomed more than 500 youth participants at the Baptist Health Training Complex. The event gave children the opportunity to test their football skills in a safe, structured and engaging environment.

During the fall season, the Dolphins supported high school boys tackle football programs with donated resources, impacting 225 student-athletes across three South Florida schools.

The season of giving began at Spanish River High School where student-athletes interacted with Dolphins offensive linemen Patrick Paul and Jonah Savaiinaea, who offered guidance and words of encouragement ahead of the season. The Dolphins later visited South Dade Senior High School and Deerfield Beach High School, surprising student-athletes with equipment and resources designed to support their programs.

During the school visits, Baptist Health Orthopedic Care staff reinforced the importance of player safety, injury prevention, and proper recovery habits.

“We are proud to continue growing our partnership with the Miami Dolphins and their youth football programs,” said Carlos Hernandez, Chief Executive Officer of Baptist Health Doctors Hospital. “As the region’s leading healthcare provider, Baptist Health is committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate care to communities across South Florida. This partnership reflects our dedication to supporting youth health and wellness, allowing us to promote safe play, active lifestyles, and the overall well-being of young athletes and their families.”

In the spring, the Dolphins continued their investment in girls flag football, providing donated in-kind and new resources to nearly 70 student-athletes across three programs. Schools included 1A FHSAA playoff contender Somerset Academy in Boynton Beach, 3A FHSAA playoff contender Nova High School, and Felix Varela High School. Student-athletes were surprised with essential equipment including gloves, footballs, SYZMIK protective headgear and additional gear to support training and competition throughout the season.

The initiative supports girls flag football as it continues to grow rapidly across the country, with Florida playing a leading role in the sport’s development. In 2003, Florida became the first state to sanction high school girls flag football, helping pave the way for national expansion. Today, with the NCAA recognizing women’s flag football as an emerging sport, opportunities for collegiate scholarships and Division I pathways continue to grow.

The Dolphins also hosted the Coaches Clinic presented by Baptist Health, supporting more than 150 high school and youth football coaches through educational programming, on-field instruction and professional development opportunities. Coaches received gift bags including Nike coaches bags, Dolphins hats, Gatorade towels and lunch while participating in sessions led by FIU football staff, USA Football educators and strength and conditioning specialists.

Together, these efforts reflect the organization’s ongoing commitment to educating, empowering and supporting young athletes and coaches across South Florida, while continuing to grow the game of football in a safe, accessible and development-focused environment.

As stewards of the game, the Miami Dolphins youth football program remain committed to growing participation in football and flag football while building character, developing skills and creating meaningful opportunities for young athletes across the region. Through strategic partnerships and year-round engagement, the organization continues to expand access to the sport while strengthening the next generation of Dolphins fans.

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