The East Manatee Bulldogs (EMB) is a volunteer-based, non-profit youth football and cheer organization serving families in the Lakewood Ranch and surrounding communities. We are proud members of the FYD Pop Warner Conference, providing a structured and competitive environment for youth athletics.
EMB offers tackle football for ages 5–14 and cheerleading for ages 3.5–14. Our program is designed to support athletes at all experience levels, with a focus on development, teamwork, and progression throughout each age division.
Our organization is made up entirely of dedicated volunteers, including board members, coaches, and team staff who work year-round to support our athletes and families. With a large and growing program, we are committed to maintaining strong organization, clear communication, and a positive experience across all levels.
Throughout the season, EMB hosts practices, games, competitions, and community events that bring families together and create a strong sense of community. From the first day of practice through the end of the season, we aim to provide an organized, supportive, and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

At the end of the season, our players will be better tacklers, ball carriers, and team mates than they were when they started. We focus on fundamentals, the most current safety training standards, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

Our Cheerleaders are the heart and soul of the organization. They train every bit as hard as football, and their execution of routines reflect their hard work and dedication. EMB Cheerleaders go on to lead the way at the high school levels in the area.

We are focused on several areas of our participants. We teach sportsmanship, team work, being a good member of the community, and holding our players accountable for academics.