Why Choose Tri-County Sharks Tackle Football

To say that tackle football is under attack would be an understatement. Even politicians got involved a few months ago with legislation limiting the age of players for tackle football. Luckily, the bill was pulled and the decision whether or not to let a child play is now back in the hands of the parents.

The benefits of tackle football far outweigh the risks today. With advancements in helmet and pad technology and safer tackling techniques, your child will come away with more than they started. These benefits include daily exercise, nutrition information, team work, a responsibility and accountability to others, diversity, teamwork, social skills, and higher academic standards to name a few.

So how do parents decide whether or not to let their children play tackle football? There are a few options here locally regarding youth tackle leagues. What makes the Tri-County Sharks different? There are a few things that separate us from the others and help parents feel more comfortable allowing their children to strap on a helmet and pads.

American Youth Football (AYF): We are a member of AYF which offers many opportunities for your athlete. Those benefits include playoff opportunities, All Star teams to attend Nationals in Florida, Unlimited and Limited weight categories (no child left behind), academic scholarships (they are students first), and 8th grade National All Stars (IMG academy all expenses paid for the athlete),

Coaches: Our coaches go through extensive training both online and in person to make sure they properly teach tackle techniques and safer play. They are certified in USA Football Heads Up, Hawk Tackling, Concussion diagnosis and protocol, Double Goal Coaching, and Human Kinetics.

Concussion Management: We use the online application HitCheck. This app records your child's baseline in a game type environment measuring short term memory, balance, reaction time, coordination, pattern recognition, problem solving, color recognition, and impulse control. If your child experiences a hard hit, we re-test and the results help us diagnose a concussion. You also receive the report so that if you want to consult your physician you will have the baseline and the re-test.

Equipment: Every athlete receives a re-certified Xenith helmet. These helmets are 5 star safety rated and are on the top ten list of accepted helmets by the NFL and NFL Players Association. They also receive carbon fiber pads made by Wilson. These lightweight pads offer all the protection of heavier pads but allow for full motion of arms and head. No blind spots.

Cost: This is our 5th year and we have NEVER increased football rates. It is currently $275 to play football and your season lasts 10 weeks. That is only $27.50 per week and includes: helmet, pads, integrated practice pants, integrated game pants, practice jersey, personalized game jersey to keep, socks, mouth guard, 4 home games, 4 away games, half time snacks, after game snacks, speed clinics, and youth football camp at Aptos High School. We also allow you to fundraise your fees and offer summer school credits for high school age children who want to work on advance credit, make up credit, or extra credits.

In addition to the above, we also participate in the San Francisco 49ers youth program which comes out and runs the kids through drills and gives us tickets to various games at no charge. We have even had kids on the field for the National Anthem for several games.

Have we peaked your interest? Whether your child has NEVER played football or has played for years, we have a spot for you. We are at Round Table Pizza in Watsonville Mondays from 6 pm to 8 pm. We have our equipment on display and can answer all of your questions. You can also call (831) 539-6793 for more information. Make an educated decision when it comes to youth tackle football and the safety of your child.