6230 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Kentwood, MI 49508

2026

The Road to Draft Day Starts Here

Speed. Agility. Competition. Every player entering grades 3–6 has the opportunity to be evaluated by KRFA coaches before the 2026 player draft.

How the KRFA Combine Works

The KRFA Combine is the official kickoff to the 2026 season and the first step toward Draft Day. Every player entering 3rd-6th grade rotates through six standardized evaluation stations designed to measure athletic ability and football fundamentals in a fun, organized environment.

Throughout the evening, KRFA coaches will evaluate each participant using consistent scoring criteria. Results from these evaluations will be compiled and provided to coaches before the player draft, helping them build balanced, competitive teams while giving every athlete a fair opportunity to showcase their abilities.

The combine isn't about identifying the fastest or strongest player—it's about evaluating the complete athlete. Speed, agility, football skills, effort, coachability, and competitive spirit all play a role in the evaluation process.

Most importantly, this is a chance for players to challenge themselves, meet coaches and future teammates, and begin the season with confidence and excitement.

How the Evening Works

5:00 PM – Registration opens (parent or guardian required)

5:30 PM – Welcome, announcements, and station assignments

5:45 PM – Players rotate through all six evaluation stations

Approximately 8:00 PM – Combine concludes

Every registered player will complete each station and receive the same opportunity to be evaluated before the 2026 KRFA Draft.

What Players Will Be Evaluated On

Every participant will rotate through six standardized evaluation stations designed to measure athletic ability, football fundamentals, and overall performance. Each station is staffed by a dedicated evaluator who scores every player using the same criteria, ensuring a fair and consistent evaluation process for all participants.

40-Yard Dash

Players will complete a timed 40-yard sprint to measure straight-line speed and acceleration. Times are recorded and later converted into standardized player ratings for the draft process.

Pro Shuttle (5-10-5)

This timed agility drill measures quickness, balance, body control, and change-of-direction ability. Like the 40-yard dash, times are converted into standardized ratings after the combine.

Catching Drill

Players are evaluated on hand-eye coordination, ball tracking, concentration, and receiving technique through a series of passing drills.

Throwing Drill

Quarterbacks and other interested players will demonstrate passing accuracy, mechanics, touch, and arm strength while coaches evaluate throwing fundamentals.

Blocking Drill

Players demonstrate proper blocking technique, leverage, footwork, balance, and effort in a controlled drill environment.

Tackling Fundamentals

This non-contact station evaluates safe tackling mechanics, body position, leverage, and overall defensive technique.

Fair. Consistent. Objective.

Every player completes the same evaluation stations and is assessed using the same standardized process. Timed events provide objective measurements, while football skill stations are evaluated by dedicated station coaches using consistent scoring criteria. The results are combined to create each player's overall evaluation, providing coaches with reliable information to help build balanced and competitive teams for the 2026 KRFA Draft.

Event Schedule

5:00 PM

Registration Opens

5:30 PM

Opening Instructions

5:45 PM

Combine Begins

8:00 PM

Approximate Conclusion

What to Bring

  • Athletic clothes

  • Cleats or athletic shoes

  • Water bottle

  • Positive attitude

  • Parent or guardian

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pre-registration required?

No. Walk-ups are welcome.

Can my child register alone?

No. A parent or legal guardian must be present.

Does my child have to attend?

No, but attendance is strongly encouraged since combine evaluations are now part of the draft process.

Will everyone make a team?

Yes

What grades participate?

3rd–6th Grade.

Ready to Take the First Step Toward Draft Day?

The KRFA Combine is where every player's journey begins. Whether you're returning for another season or joining the league for the first time, this is your opportunity to showcase your athletic ability, compete alongside other players, and be evaluated before the 2026 KRFA Draft.

Pre-register today to speed up check-in on event day. Walk-up registration is also available, but all players must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to complete registration.

Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Registration Opens: 5:00 PM
Combine Begins: 5:30 PM
Location: East Kentwood High School Football Stadium

Reserve your spot today and get ready to compete.

Our Mantra

We are men and women of great character. We are disciplined, hard working and unflinching. We are the hammer, not the nail.

Lino Johnson

KRFA President