Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to create safe, fair, and developmentally appropriate divisions for youth flag football. Our focus is on skill development, participation, teamwork, and enjoyment of the game while maintaining competitive balance across all age groups.
Flag football is designed to teach fundamentals in a fast paced, non contact environment. This division structure supports long term athlete development while keeping the game fun and accessible for all players.
Division Structure
Divisions are based on school grade level, which best aligns players with their peers socially and developmentally while simplifying registration and team formation.
Current divisions are as follows:
K–2 Division (coed)
Introduction to flag football fundamentals including basic rules, ball handling, running routes, and defensive positioning. Emphasis is on learning, confidence, and fun. Scores and standings may be deemphasized.
3–4 Division
Continued development of core skills including passing, catching, route concepts, and flag pulling. Players begin learning basic offensive and defensive formations with an increased focus on game flow and teamwork.
5–6 Division
Competitive developmental play with expanded playbooks, advanced route concepts, and defensive strategies. Players are expected to understand rules, spacing, and situational football.
7–8 Division
Middle school level flag football featuring higher pace, increased strategy, and refined execution. Emphasis is placed on sportsmanship, accountability, and preparing athletes for higher levels of play.
9–12 Division (Girls Only)
Offered when participation numbers allow. This division is intended for high school aged athletes seeking skill development, recreation, or supplemental competition outside of school programs.
The league reserves the right to combine or adjust divisions when necessary to ensure safe play, competitive balance, and a positive experience for all participants.
Why Grade Based Divisions Are Used
The league uses grade based divisions to:
- Keep players grouped with their school peers
- Reduce physical mismatches in a non contact format
- Simplify registration and team placement
- Maintain consistent competition levels across seasons
This approach supports participation and development while minimizing confusion and disputes related to age cutoffs.
U Level Divisions
Age based U level divisions are common in some flag football leagues. At this time, the league has chosen a grade based model for clarity and consistency.
U level divisions may be considered in the future if league growth, competitive needs, or alignment with external flag football programs make it beneficial.
Playing Up or Playing Down
Requests for a player to compete outside of their assigned division are evaluated on a case by case basis and are not guaranteed.
Considerations include:
- Player safety
- Physical size and speed
- Skill level and football experience
- Team balance and roster needs
- Overall impact on the division
Final decisions are made by league administration in the best interest of the player and the league. Coaches do not have final authority on division placement. This keeps things fair and prevents accidental super teams. Or intentional ones. Request must be made after registration via email.
Equipment and Rules Alignment
Rules, field size, ball size, and gameplay format are adjusted by division to match age appropriate development and safety standards. These adjustments ensure that each division plays flag football suited to their stage of growth and skill.
Policy Review
This policy is reviewed annually and may be updated based on participation trends, safety considerations, and league growth. Any updates will be communicated prior to the registration period.
Closing Statement
Flag football should challenge players without overwhelming them, promote competition without sacrificing fun, and always prioritize development over wins and losses. This division structure exists to support that mission and keep athletes excited to come back season after season.