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ESPN’s Field Yates Helps Sailors Gear Up for Fantasy Football Season

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August 26, 2025 | Story by Megan Trexler | Commander, Navy Installations Command

WASHINGTON --- Fantasy football fans across the Navy Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) community got an edge this season thanks to the Virtual Single Sailor Program (VSSP). In August, ESPN NFL Insider Field Yates hosted two exclusive live Fantasy Football Fleet briefings, giving Sailors and eligible MWR patrons insider strategies just in time for draft season.

The briefings, held on August 18 and 25, drew more than 60 participants from around the world. The second session was scheduled specifically so Sailors and other MWR patrons in Commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Central (EURAFCENT) could participate after work, while those stationed stateside could tune in during lunch. The events also marked the launch of the VSSP High Seas Showdown Fantasy Football League, a new enterprise-wide league designed to bring Sailors together through competition and camaraderie.

Participants had the rare opportunity to ask Yates questions directly, making the events both interactive and highly practical for fantasy enthusiasts preparing for their leagues. “It’s not every day you get direct access to someone like Field Yates,” said one participant. “Being able to ask questions and hear his take on players we’re targeting made this really valuable.”

Yates, a nationally recognized sportswriter and analyst, is considered one of the top voices in fantasy football. His extensive knowledge of the NFL, combined with a proven track record in evaluating player performance, has made him a trusted resource for fans nationwide. During the briefings, he covered topics like draft preparation, sleeper picks and in-season roster management—all designed to give players a competitive advantage.

Whether new to fantasy football or a seasoned competitor, attendees walked away with fresh insights to strengthen their draft strategies and manage their teams throughout the season.

Building on the success of these first two events, VSSP plans to host additional talks with fantasy football experts throughout the season, continuing to provide engaging opportunities for Sailors and Liberty-eligible patrons to connect, learn and have fun. Together with the High Seas Showdown Fantasy Football League, these efforts are creating an exciting new way for the Navy MWR community to stay engaged all season long. For more information about upcoming VSSP events, visit NavyMWRSingleSailor.com.

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