Welcome to the YMCA Flag Football program at the YMCA of Arlington-Mansfield! Our program is specially designed to introduce young athletes to the exciting game of football in a supportive and safe environment. Here at the YMCA, we focus on teaching the essential fundamentals of football, ensuring that every child learns the proper techniques and strategies of the game.
Practices and Games
Location(s): Association-wide
Ages: 5-14 [Recreational and Competitive]
Member Priority Registration Begins: September 1
Non-Member Registration Begins: September 8
Registration Ends: September 25
Late Registration Begins: September 26 – 31 ($10 late fee applies)
Practices Begin: Week of October 21
Season Begins: November 2
Season Dates: 11/2, 11/9, 11/16 ,11/23, 12/7 & 12/14
Season Break: November 30 – Thanksgiving Weekend
Cost:
Included Program for Members (just pay a $49 member supply fee)
Non-Member: $149
(Become a member and save!)
What’s Provided: All game day equipment & football jersey
Our approach to flag football emphasizes good sportsmanship and teamwork. We believe these values are just as important as the physical skills of the game. Through engaging games and dynamic drills, our young athletes learn to work together, respect each other, and develop a love for the sport.
YMCA of Arlington-Mansfield Flag Football is a recreational program perfect for children who are looking to learn football in a fun, team-oriented setting. One of the key features of our program is that it is a non-contact sport. By eliminating tackling, we ensure a safer environment for our players while still offering them the opportunity to develop their football skills. This approach allows children to focus on other aspects of the game, such as passing, catching, and strategy.
The program runs during the fall and spring, offering ample opportunity for children to play, learn, and grow. We welcome players of all skill levels, from beginners to those who have played before. Our experienced coaches are committed to making sure each child has a positive experience, learns new skills, and improves their overall fitness.
Volunteer Coaching Opportunities
We’re seeking volunteers interested in coaching youth sports. Our coaches make YMCA youth sports possible and create a lifelong impact on children by encouraging participation and emphasizing sportsmanship and strong character.
When you become a volunteer, the Y will introduce you to coaching and provide resources specific to the sport you coach. If your child is a player, getting involved at their practices can help them feel comfortable to practice with you outside of official practice time.
Football Benefits
If your child is ready to play ball, then it’s time to enroll them in our flag football program! Flag Football allows children to become acquainted with the rules and basic fundamentals of the game without the full on-tackle experience. Flag football for kids also gives them the opportunity to have fun and is ideal for younger children whose bodies are not ready for constant collisions.
Training Benefits
Daily activity is very important to any aspiring athlete. Small children can train through daily chores and activities that stretch muscles and develop coordination as well as muscular strength to stay fit and ready for play. Older children can add more structured training to their daily activities to help develop specialized skills, which will enable them to become a better football player.
Coaching Tips
Coaches of kids should set a simple goal of a season enjoyable enough that everyone returns for next season. Welcome each player by name at every practice and game to help them feel welcome and positive from the start. Plan practices that keep kids active and be clear on your goals for their development by sharing them with your players and their parents.
