What to Expect Playing Flag Football

With the rise of flag football’s popularity on the global stage, many parents are rethinking their approach to youth football. Flag football is set to become part of the 2028 L.A. Olympic Games and local leagues and school teams continue to be added in areas nationwide. So what can parents and players expect when signing up for this new popular sport? 

Flag Football is Beneficial for All Ages

The most obvious difference you will see In flag football is that there is no tackling. Instead, players stop the ball carrier by pulling flags attached to their waists. This is typically the selling point for parents, especially parents of younger children.

However, with flag football teams for middle school and high school students becoming more popular and more widely available, your kids have more options to play flag football long-term. Flag football is a great way for kids of all ages to learn teamwork, speed, and agility among other developmental skills.

Age and Skill Development

Flag football emphasizes agility, speed, and quick decision-making. Players focus on ball-handling skills, running routes, and understanding offensive and defensive plays.

Flag football coaches often focus on refining the basics of passing, route running, and positioning, as the game leans heavily on speed and precision. Without contact, coaches can emphasize strategic play and awareness of space on the field.

Game Rules

You may notice a few important differences in the gameplay compared to traditional football. Below are some of the rule differences you may notice. Keep in mind that these rules can also vary slightly based on age groups and locations. Younger players, especially those from ages 3-7, will typically have slight variations in these differences to help speed up gameplay while they’re still learning the basics.

Flag Football Rules That Differ From Traditional Football

• • Teams are smaller.
    • For younger teams, you will see 4-5 players on a field at one time.
    • Older teams you will see up to 7 players on a field.
  • Blocking is not allowed in flag football. 
  • The ball is spotted based on where the carrier’s feet are when the flag is pulled, not where the ball is.
  • There are no fumble returns. If the ball carrier fumbles, the ball is spotted where it hits the ground.
  • All players are eligible to receive a pass. 
  • No-run zones are implemented at some levels where teams cannot run the ball in certain spots on the field such as the 5 yards prior to the end zone.
  • Scoring is slightly different:
    • Touchdown= 6 points
    • Extra Point= 1 point
      • Extra points are not kicked. 
      • It is a play from the 5-yard line. Typically has to be a pass play for older age groups.
      • You can go for two extra points by playing from the 12-yard line
    • Safety=2 points
    • Extra Point Attempt Return= 2 points
      • This is when a pass for an extra point is intercepted and returned for a touchdown.

Despite the slight differences in how the game is played, flag football is still the exciting sport kids love to watch with mom and dad on Sundays. It’s a great way for them to stay active, enjoy the game, and continue to develop a love for sports overall.

Find a Flag Football Program Near You

Our youth flag football program has been around for 20 years and is our most popular sport. We focus on teaching age-appropriate instruction and sportsmanship. This allows young athletes to learn the game, improve their skills, and fall in love with the sport. Find a flag football program near you today!