Flag FAQ - K-5th Grade

What are the benefits of flag football?

• Flag football helps kids stay active, build teamwork skills, and learn the basics of the game in a fun, low-pressure setting. It’s great for improving speed, coordination, and confidence—plus, it’s a blast!

Is flag football safe?

• Yes! Flag football is a low-contact sport where players focus on grabbing flags instead of hitting. Coaches teach safe play, and while small bumps can happen, it’s a fun and safe way for kids to stay active.

What equipment does my child need?

• RYFA provides an NFL reversable jersey and flag belts. Tennis shoes or cleats (no metal spikes) are recommended for footwear. Mouthguards are recommended, but optional.

Can I put in a buddy request for my child?

• When it comes to player requests, although we would love to accommodate all requests we cannot commit to doing so. The only way to ensure that your child will be on the same team is if the parent's are coaching together. (Coaches are allowed to request one additional coach or child for their team). 

How long is the season?

• Our flag football season typically starts around the middle of June and ends towards the end of July.

Can my child play flag football while doing other sports?

• Absolutely! The minimal time commitment makes it easy to balance with other activities.

Who coaches the teams?

• RYFA relies on volunteer parents or community coaches and we appreciate your willingness to help out! You can find out more about becoming and registering as a coach using this link.

Can girls play flag football?

• Absolutely, we encourage it! Girls can and do play flag football, and the sport is growing rapidly. Many leagues and organizations specifically support girls' flag football, with high school and collegiate programs expanding across the U.S..
• For example, the Minnesota Vikings have helped launch the state's first-ever high school girls' flag football league, partnering with 51 schools to provide opportunities for female athletes. There are also national initiatives promoting girls' participation in flag football, making it more accessible than ever.

At what age can my child begin playing flag football with RYFA?

• We allow students who will begin Kindergarten in the fall to begin playing flag that summer between preschool and kindergarten.

Does flag football help prepare kids for tackle football?

• Yes! Flag football teaches fundamental skills like passing, catching, and route running without the physical risks of tackling.

What are the different positions in flag football?

• In flag football, players usually rotate through positions like quarterback (throws the ball), running back (runs with the ball), wide receiver (catches passes), and defenders (try to pull flags). Everyone gets a chance to play different roles and build all-around skills!

How do penalties work in flag football?

• RYFA provides a referee for every flag game and they enforce the rules of our league. If you want to learn more about the rules, use this link.

How are positions and playing time determined?

• The head coach is responsible for putting players in positions. We expect our coaches to play every athlete for an equal amount of time.

How are teams formed and how many players are on a team?

• The number of teams are based on multiple factors including registration numbers and coaches that have volunteered. We balance to have the same number of players on each team as well as trying to balance the teams based on the previous year's coaching feedback.

Where are the games and practice fields located?

• All games and practices are held at the fields by Prairie View Elementary and Middle School.

What should I do if I have more questions?

• You can find contact information on our board page or send and email to: RYFA@rogersyouthfootball.org