The Manawa Cowboys program is operated for the benefit of its youthful participants. The program's philosophy is Academics and Athletics go hand-in-hand. The Cowboys seek to develop well-rounded young men and women who learn not only the fundamentals of football, cheerleading and dance but also the importance of education, in an atmosphere conducive to developing sound mind, body and character - and having a good time along the way.
The objectives of the Cowboys are to inspire youth to practice the ideals of sportsmanship, scholarship, and physical fitness striving to make the game "fun" for all boys and girls. The program stresses learning lessons of value far beyond the playing or spirit days of the boys and girls involved, such as: self-discipline, teamwork, concentration, friendship, leadership, and good sportsmanship.
With such goals in mind, and by providing an opportunity to participate in an organized, supervised environment with emphasis on maximum safety and participation, the Cowboys offer young men and women a unique experience.
Manawa is part of the Mid-State Youth Football & Cheerleading Conference. The other teams in the league are Almond, Amherst, Berlin, Iola-Scandinavia, Montello, Omro, Quad Cities, Tri-County, Wautoma, Weyauwega & Wild Rose. Manawa Cowboys Football is a full contact tackle football program. Players are placed in each division by their age and weight. The Cowboys do not draft players nor is anyone cut. The Cowboys enforce a mandatory play rule.