Gettin’ in the Game Junior National Championship (JNC)

VHF (along with other chapters across the nation) have been given the opportunity to nominate up to two participants, girls and boys, each selected for either baseball, basketball, golf, or swimming. The 23rd Junior National Championship (JNC) is taking place in Henderson, NV from May 1 – 3, 2026.

VHF nominee application deadline is 5:00 pm EST, Friday, December 5, 2025. 

Who is eligible:  Children between 7–18 years of age with a bleeding disorder (nominees must be accompanied by a caregiver 25 years of age or older at the event. Due to state and federal laws, CSL is unable to permit healthcare professionals to attend.) As a reminder, prior experience or expertise in the chosen sport is not required to participate, just a positive attitude and a willingness to learn and take part! Also, special consideration will be given to first time attendees, but all children who have attended in the past are welcome to apply again!

Cost: Free. CSL Behring will sponsor two chapter nominees and one accompanying caregiver for each nominee to participate in the program. This sponsorship will include the coordination and cost of airfare, ground transportation in Henderson, Nevada, and hotel arrangements (attendees will be responsible for transportation to/from their hometown airport). This event is limited to the nominee and one caregiver only. CSL is unable to accommodate additional family members at any JNC related events.

Program Description: Developed by CSL Behring, the Gettin’ in the Game Junior National Championship (JNC) was the first and is currently the only national sports competition designed specifically for the bleeding disorders community. The JNC features accomplished Gettin’ in the Game Athletes who themselves have been diagnosed with a bleeding disorder. Go here to learn more.

During the JNC program nominees will have the opportunity to: 

• Choose from FOUR sports – baseball, basketball, golf, and swimming.
• Learn about the importance of physical fitness in managing a bleeding disorder and receive instructions on proper techniques and good form.
• Show off their abilities in a national competition with fellow nominees from around the country.
• Connect and build relationships with fellow members of the bleeding disorders community.

VHF Nominee Application Process:

1. Fill out the brief application form here.
2. The child applying will need to answer one essay question and provide a heartfelt answer to the question “Why do you love the sport you chose and/or why would you like to attend the JNC?” (Length should be age appropriate and around 1-2 paragraphs.)
3. Essays must be original and written solely by the child applying (please, no parental help writing the essay!)
4. Submit the application and essay by the deadline, 5:00 pm EST, Friday, December 5, 2025.

For an idea of the program expectations go here to read the 2026 JNC nominee information packet.

If you have any questions please contact Heather at info@vahemophilia.org or 804-740-8643.