The Rise of Flag Football
Flag football is one of the fastest growing youth sports, currently on its way to becoming a college sanctioned sport. While extensive research is being conducted to better understand football safety, it’s still a game that comes with many physical and emotional benefits.
Here are five great benefits for kids who play football:
1
Health Benefits
Football is a fast moving game with a lot of variety. Players run, jump, quickly change direction, and stop and start, which improves cardiovascular health. Plus, a recent study found that playing football has positive effects on bone strength.
2
Teamwork
Youth football teaches accountability, leadership, and positive sportsmanship. Every position has a purpose. To execute a play successfully, each individual needs to fulfill their responsibility while working together.
3
Discipline
Learning routes, repetitive drills, and executing proper technique take a high level of discipline. Each practice lays the foundation for a strong work ethic that kids will use throughout their lives.
4
Mental Toughness
Sports are a great platform to build resilience. Whether it’s making a mistake on the field or needing to come back from a major upset, football provides opportunities to learn how to persevere and remain calm under pressure.
5
Socialization
Football teaches kids how to effectively communicate. They rely on each other—what better way to make long-lasting friendships? Layer this with learning to respect direction from coaches and you have a range of vital social skills.
Why Choose Flag Football?
Flag football has a lot to offer, from co-ed leagues to competitive tournaments. Here are five important benefits specific to the flag format:
1
No Contact
Flag football is a non-contact sport. No tackling, diving, blocking, screening or fumbles allowed. Players aren’t required to wear heavy equipment, creating an approachable atmosphere to learn skills without physical contact.
2
Accessibility
Flag is incredibly inclusive and opens the doors to many players, including female athletes. In fact, the NAIA has launched the first college sanctioned women’s flag football league.
3
Fundamentals
The myth that flag doesn't prepare kids for tackle isn't true. The basics—catching, throwing, formations, routes, and defensive alignment—directly transfer. Defensive squaring up is the exact positioning needed for tackle football later on.
4
Easy Commitment
With most leagues only meeting once per week (Sunday), families can squeeze flag football into packed schedules. Teams typically practice for 45 minutes immediately before their game.
5
It’s Fun!
With fewer players on the field, there’s more engagement and a faster speed of play. Games are quick, competitive, and every drive counts. It’s the version of football you loved playing in your backyard—why ever stop?