The FAQs of Flag Football

What is Flag Football?

Flag football is a less-physical version of the game of football. Instead of tackling an opponent, a defender pulls the flag attached to the person with the ball's belt to cause a stoppage in play. This was designed so that people can enjoy football minus the tackling.

How is Flag Football Played?

Flag football is played on a field that is smaller than a regulation football field. There is no blocking involved, and there are anywhere from 5 to 7 players on the field per team at a time. The offensive team has 4 downs to advance the ball past the midfield line. If the offensive team succeeds, then if has 4 more downs to score a touchdown. If the defensive team prevents the offense from reaching midfield or the end zone for a first down, that team takes over on offense. A fumbled ball that hits the ground is a dead ball.

Why is Flag Football a Great Sport for Kids?

Flag football gives children the option to play football with the same fitness and competitive benefits of tackle football, but with less risk of injury. In addition to the physical benefits of playing flag football, there are also multiple character-building benefits for children. For instance: social skills, good sportsmanship, the value of practice, and how to compete. The physical skills developed in flag football also helps kids improve in sports such as basketball and lacrosse.

What is NFL Flag?

NFL Flag is the largest, most recognized flag football organization in the U.S. Backed by the NFL with an emphasis on football fundamentals and community involvement, NFL Flag is a fun and accessible non-contact program for girls and boys, and empowers youth athletes across the nation.

Where Can Kids in the Woodbury-Middlebury Area Play?

Offered as a program through Woodbury Parks & Recreation, Nonnewaug NFL Flag Football will kick off its first season in September 2020. Although it is a new program, it is headed up by a group of parents who have been coaches in other regional NFL Flag and Pop Warner programs. Nonnewaug NFL Flag football has 4 divisions of play, based on grades: K-2, 3-4, 5-6, and 7-8. Students from Regions 14 and 15 and neighboring communities are invited to participate.

When and Where Are Nonnewaug NFL Flag Football Games Played?

Nonnewaug NFL Flag Football games will be played on Sundays at Hollow Park in Woodbury, CT. The first games of the day will most likely start mid-morning and run through mid-afternoon. If available, Nonnewaug NFL Flag Football will try to play certain games at the new artificial turf field at Nonnewaug High School.

How Long is the Season?

The registration deadline is August 21, and Nonnewaug NFL Flag Football is hoping to hold a clinic one night the following week. After that, kids will be assigned to teams and coaches will hold 1-2 practices a week. The season should conclude in early November.

Is it Just Open to Boys, or Can Girls Play, Too?

Yes, flag football is a co-ed sport, and Nonnewaug NFL Flag Football encourages girls to play. Approximately 18% of youth flag football players nationwide are girls, and they often come to the field with a more-advanced skill set thank boys their age.

Will it be Safe to Play Flag Football During the Pandemic?

Nonnewaug NFL Flag Football will put the safety of its players, coaches, referees, and volunteers FIRST. We will comply with the latest guidelines from the CDC, the State of Connecticut, and the Pomperaug Health District. This includes disinfecting footballs and field equipment after each practice and game, coaches wearing masks, social distancing on the sidelines, and more.