Junior Bear Football

CELEBRATING 75 YEARS IN 2024

Junior Bear is a tackle football program with two divisions; the 8-10-year-old pee wee division and the 11-13-year-old varsity division. In a season that runs from August to October, players participate in opening ceremonies, clinics, and league play, along with the championship game and closing ceremonies. Uniforms, transportation, and giveaways are provided. Games are played at several locations throughout the city, usually on Saturdays, with some Tuesday night games. The championship Mum Bowl is held at historic Soldier Field at the end of the season, usually in early November. This program is coordinated and administered by the Chicago Park District’s Athletics Department, and partially funded by a grant from Bears Care, the charitable arm of the Chicago Bears.

75th Anniversary - Share your memories!

Join us as we proudly celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Junior Bear program, a legacy built on passion, teamwork, and unforgettable memories. For over seven decades, our Junior Bear community has thrived. It's time to honor the players, teams, and coaches who contributed to this rich history.

We want to hear what Junior Bear has meant to you! Please share your stories, thoughts, photos, and videos from your time with Junior Bear. Your memories will become a cherished part of our digital archive and may be used in our 75th-anniversary marketing materials.

Share Your Junior Bear Memories

See the list of parks offering Junior Bear football programs below.

Participating Parks

Ada Park Bears
11250 S. Ada St.
(312)747-6002

Chopin Park Colts
3420 N. Long
(773) 685-3247

Clarendon Park Cardinals (Varsity program only)
4501 N. Clarendon Ave
(312) 742-7512

Fosco Park Chargers*
1312 S. Racine Ave.
(312) 746-5086