Flag football is a blast! With fewer players on the field, there's more engagement, faster play, and every drive matters. Games are quick and competitive, and kids are involved on every possession rather than standing around waiting for a turn.

NFL FLAG is backed by the NFL and built for girls and boys ages 5–17, with an emphasis on football fundamentals, community, and accessibility. It's no-contact, so the focus stays on skill-building and fun rather than physicality. Think of it as the backyard football you grew up loving with real coaching, real teammates, and a real season behind it. Learn more about the benefits of flag football

Boys and girls in grades 1–8 are welcome. No tryouts, no cuts — all skill levels are encouraged to join.

Everything happens on Sundays. Each week includes a 1-hour practice followed by a 1-hour game or scrimmage.

Teams are coached by parent volunteers who are background-checked and equipped with YMCA and NFL FLAG coaching resources. They're invested in your kid because they're usually parents of kids on the team.

It's a real partnership. Vikings cheerleaders and mascot Viktor make appearances, there are special giveaways throughout the season, and Vikings Flag participants get access to an exclusive free clinic. The Vikings also open TCO Stadium for weekly league play and the end-of-season All-City event — a genuine highlight for kids.

Flags and jerseys are purchased through registration. Mouthguard and plastic molded cleats are recommended but not required — athletic shoes work just fine. That's all you need to show up ready to play.

This program is perfect for first-timers. Coaches start with the fundamentals, the environment is welcoming, and the no-contact format removes a lot of the pressure kids might feel jumping into a new sport. That said, it's also competitive enough to challenge kids who already know the game and want to improve.

Yes. No family should sit out because of cost. Financial assistance is available — learn more and apply here.