Tony Walker Named NFL Youth Coach of the Week by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tony Walker’s journey to becoming a youth football coach began with his daughter.

“When my daughter, Aaliyah, was 6 or 7, she wanted to try flag football,” said Walker, the Week 6 winner of the NFL Play Football Youth Coach of the Week Award, representing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. “I started coaching and it grew from there! I really love football—everything about it. Before you knew it, they wanted me to help with tackle.”

For the past eight years, Walker has dedicated himself to building the Westchase Colts into one of the premier programs in Pop Warner’s Florida Youth Dynamics Conference. His teams have captured four consecutive conference Super Bowl championships.

“We take a lot of pride in building a strong, disciplined, and family-oriented culture within our organization,” said Walker, who currently coaches the 11U team. “Every season has taught me something new, not just about football, but about leadership, teamwork, and helping young athletes grow both on and off the field.

“There have been several memorable moments, but what really stands out is watching our team come together to win our conference Super Bowl each season. We won four in a row. Seeing the players’ hard work, commitment, and growth pay off is something that will always stick with me.”

Coach Walker’s 2023 9U team earned a trip to Orlando’s Camping World Stadium, finishing as national runner-up after an 8-6 heartbreaker against the Richmond Heights Conquerors of Ohio in the championship game.

Although the wins and championships are rewarding, Walker finds the greatest joy in watching his players develop: “My favorite part is witnessing their growth—not just in football skills, but in confidence, leadership, and discipline. Seeing a kid who was shy or unsure transform into a leader on the field and in the classroom is what keeps me motivated.”

Roman Oben, NFL Vice President of Football Development, praised Walker and other coaches honored by the program: “The NFL Play Football Coach of the Week Award in partnership with AYF and Pop Warner honors those who do more than teach the game at the younger levels. It celebrates leaders who inspire character, teamwork, and a lifelong love of football in the next generation.”

Steve Strawbridge, President/CEO of Pop Warner, added, “We’re thrilled to team up with the NFL on the Youth Coach of the Week program because it celebrates the true lifeblood of our organization and youth football: the volunteer coaches. They are the mentors who not only help young athletes develop their skills on the field but also shape them as people. This award is a meaningful way to thank the men and women who give so much back to our game and our communities, ensuring the sport remains strong for the next generation.”

As the NFL Play Football Youth Coach of the Week, Coach Walker recently attended a Buccaneers game, where he had the opportunity to sit next to former Buccaneer Donnie Elder.