GRANTS PASS, Ore. – Some of University of Oregon’s highest profile athletes spent Saturday at Grants Pass High School Track and Field for the Oregon Athlete Foundation’s Kids Dash. A free family focused event blending fun, fitness and connection between young fans and collegiate athletes.
The Oregon Athlete Foundation was started over a decade ago by Grants Pass native and former Oregon football player Michael DeLaGrange. His mission: to support athletes transitioning out of sports and to build bridges between communities and the college stars they cheer for.
Saturday’s event included races from 100 to 800 meters for kids ages 2–12, plus a mile challenge for those looking for a bigger test. And for kids less into running, there were bounce houses, obstacle courses, field events, and a Wellness Fair.
“The greatest thing about the Kids Dash, it’s free. You don’t have to pre-register. You can just show up and participate,” said DeLaGrange.
Local partners like Dutch Bros brought freebies and family-friendly energy, while dozens of kids dashed, laughed and played alongside Oregon Duck athletes.
Eden and Lincoln were among the youngest runners both taking part in the 6-year-old race.
“We liked the medals!” Lincoln said. “We did one obstacle course the one where you beat up the tire thing,” Eden said
Other kids like Avery, Colt, Brandon and Briley got to take on football drills and spray the athletes with water guns. “It was really cool meeting the Ducks and seeing what they’re like off the field,” Avery said. “My favorite part was the 3v3 drills and having them throw passes to us,” Colt added. “I got a bunch of autographs,” Brandon said. “and I sprayed some players with water guns.”
Among the Oregon athletes attending were dual-sport players like Bryce Boettcher and others who joined in coaching, racing, and connecting.
“It’s our first year out here,” Boettcher said. “It’s fun getting to know the community and play with the kids.” “It’s a great opportunity to explore more of Oregon beyond Eugene,” Kenyon Sadiq said.
While fun is at the core of the event, the Oregon Athlete Foundation also provides athletes with NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities. DeLaGrange sees it as a win-win, athletes can build their brand and make community connections, while kids meet role models they admire.
“It’s just networking and connecting,” Boettcher said. “We’re always at the facility, so getting out here and seeing the impact firsthand is special,” Sadiq said. “It’s about building relationships on and off the field.”
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