By Wyatt Miller
Khalil Wadood is the commissioner of the Snoop Youth Football League (SYFL). It's a 501c3 non-profit organization that was founded by entertainment icon Snoop Dogg in 2005 to give inner-city children (ages 5-13) the opportunity to participate in youth football and cheer, according to their website.
"Our mission is simple, to provide a safe and positive environment for our youth," Wadood said. "To teach and inspire them to become better and successful human beings. To contribute to humanity."
Prior to Saturday's preseason game against the Chargers, Wadood was surprised as the Rams' third "pLAymaker" honoree of 2025 for his work with the league and in the L.A. community. He was presented with a $5,000 check from the Rams to the SYFL on the field.
"It means a lot to be recognized as a playmaker," Wadood said. "Especially by the Los Angeles Rams."
Wadood said his desire to help the community started with his mother, Beverly Wadood.
"My mother instilled the values of family, commitment, and community in me," Wadood said. "These values and my time in sports made the community-driven path home."
The league's inaugural season in 2005 hosted over 1,300 kids in the Los Angeles area. It has had over 60,000 kids participate since then. Wadood has served as a volunteer coach in the past and has been with the league since its inception.
There are currently 13 teams in the SYFL, one of which is selected each year for an opportunity to fly to "states that they never dreamed of going, and play in the most prestigious stadiums in the United States," the website says. One of those teams is named after the Rams.
He also thanked Snoop Dogg, who is a longtime friend, for believing in and trusting him to "oversee his brand." Inspiring change in the community "means a lot" to Wadood and his family.
"I realize how change made a positive impact and difference in my life," he said. "Everything starts with your mindset, which is why our organization ensures that all adult members understand the impact we have on the youth. We dedicate meeting time to align and build on how we can continuously inspire change within the teams and on the field."
All SYFL coaches are USA Football certified. It's an environment where kids can learn about "character, integrity, discipline and teamwork through football and cheer," the website says, "regardless of race, color, creed or economic background." They highlight safety, enjoyment and healthy competition.
Wadood is a graduate of Fairfax High in Los Angeles, and takes great pride in giving back to his community.
"We can inspire change by being present for our youth," he said. "By accepting and appreciating the good in them and creating unique opportunities for them. Experience has taught me if we pour into the youth, we create a better world for us all. Creating positive experiences for our youth pulls the youth in over negative energy."
