CIRCLEVILLE, OH — For five decades, Marcy Pairan has been a driving force behind Pickaway County’s Pee Wee Football League — a grassroots program she helped launch in 1975 with just $100 in the bank and a dream to give kids a place to play.
This week, Pairan was honored for her unwavering commitment to the community and her pivotal role in shaping the youth football league that has impacted generations.
“She’s the glue that held everything together,” said longtime league president Terry, who co-founded the league with Pairan nearly 50 years ago. “When things got tough, Marcy was the one who stepped up. She’s been our treasurer, our organizer, and our heart.”
The league began with eight teams split between younger and older age brackets, providing football opportunities for kids aged 7 to 12 — a first for the county at the time. It has evolved over the years, growing to 11 teams at its peak before settling at three active teams today.
Pairan, affectionately known to many as the “Queen of Pee Wee Football,” was also a master fundraiser, forging lasting relationships with sponsors like The Savings Bank and the American Legion, which have supported the league for decades. She was instrumental in finding funding, managing logistics, and creating opportunities for kids from all backgrounds — even waiving fees for families who couldn’t afford to pay.
“We never turn a kid away,” said Terry. “That’s the philosophy we started with, and it’s one we’ve stuck to. If they want to play, we’ll find a way to make it happen.”
What started as a local initiative to keep kids active and out of trouble has become a legacy project — one that has served thousands of children over the years. The league has seen second and even third generations of families return, with former players now coaching or serving on the board.
Pairan officially stepped down as treasurer after 49 years, passing the torch to a new generation of volunteers, but her impact continues to resonate through every child who puts on a helmet and takes the field.
When asked why she stayed involved for so long, Pairan’s answer was simple: “I just wanted to give the kids something to do — keep them off the streets, keep them busy, keep them protected, and let them be kids. There’s just not enough organized stuff or anything for kids. I ended up being into baseball, softball, and football, and I always found somebody to help me.”
While speaking to her, she pointed out many generations of kids, not adults, whom she not only coached but also their children.
As the Pee Wee Football League prepares for its 50th season this fall, the community looks back with gratitude on a woman whose quiet determination and big heart helped build more than just a football league — she helped build a family.
Pickaway County Pee Wee Football is proud to offer a dynamic youth sports program for young athletes ages 5–12 across Pickaway and surrounding counties. Founded in 1975, our league has served generations of families by providing a safe, structured, and inclusive environment focused on teamwork, sportsmanship, and community spirit.
The program includes three divisions:
- Mini Division (Grades K–2)
- Middle Division (Grades 3–4)
- Upper Division (Grades 5–6)
They offer tackle football in all divisions, as well as a vibrant cheerleading program. Every athlete is given the opportunity to practice regularly and participate in every game, ensuring fair play and skill development across all age groups.
Practices are held at Ted Lewis Park in Circleville, Ohio, with some games scheduled at away venues. We provide all required equipment and uniforms for both football players and cheerleaders — families are only responsible for cleats.
The league is proudly operated by dedicated volunteer coaches and board members who work tirelessly to support our mission. The continued success of our program depends on participation fees, community sponsors, fundraising events, concession sales, and donations. More info can be found on the Pickaway Couunty Pee Wee Football League & Cheerleading facebook page.
