Youth Flag Football

Youth flag football leagues should be focused on two factors--providing a positive environment in which to compete as well as creating a chance for children to have fun at practices and during games. There should be no aggressive behavior, and sportsmanship should be a major component of the game. Coaches can use a variety of techniques to instill the values of fair play in their teams, and the games will be better and more entertaining as a result.

Youth Flag Football, NFL-Style

If a league wants to follow the guidelines set forth for NFL youth flag football leagues, the best place to get a comprehensive list of the rules is at the NFL Youth Flag Football Network website. There the basic structure of the game is explained in detail, including how to start the game, what the offense and defense should do on each play, how to gain possession of the ball, how long the game will last, and information about scoring.

Youth flag football teams are comprised of ten players, with five on the field and an additional five on the bench who can be put into the game whenever a flag is pulled and a play is dead. Play revolves around a line of scrimmage, with the offensive team attempting to move the ball past mid-field in three plays. The defense can rush the passer but must be at least seven yards from the line of scrimmage when the ball is put in play.

In order to ensure the relative safety of the players, referees should be used to make sure that there are no instances of tackling, blocking, or using the elbows. NFL rules require that trash talking is not tolerated, and players who use it may be ejected from the game. Coaches can have a significant influence on their players' attitudes and often encourage youngsters to focus on the fun of the game.