Last Updated on Friday, 07 August 2009 20:21 Written by By Andre Stigall-http://www.rgj.com Friday, 07 August 2009 20:18

Register kids for NFL Flag Football

Sparks,NV-Although the heat of the summer is still going strong, fall is just around the corner, and with it comes the football season.

Children ages 6 to 14 can participate in the city of Sparks' NFL Flag Football program. Registration is open now for the fall league, which begins Sept. 14 and runs through Nov. 6. Thousands of boys and girls across the country have participated in the program since it was introduced in 1996. It's a way for kids to learn all aspects of the game of football, and it teaches them valuable lessons about teamwork and fair play. One of the popular features of the noncontact program is the limit on the number of players per team. The league's 200-plus participants are placed on eight-person teams to allow them to play multiple positions. "In more traditional programs, many children only get exposure to one position based on their size," said Kelli Beaulieu, Sparks youth sports specialist. "We give our players a broader experience and the opportunity to make the catch or score a touchdown." Participants are separated into divisions by age -- those 6 to 9 in the minor division and those ages 10 to 14 in the major division. During the first week of the program, players take part in a series of drills on running, receiving, defense, flag pulling and more. Practices are held at Dilworth Middle School, 255 Prater Way. Games will take place on Mondays and Fridays at 5:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at the Shadow Mountain Sports Complex, 3300 Sparks Blvd. All of the players receive a reversible jersey, team and individual pictures and a certificate from the NFL Flag Football program. The only equipment needed is a mouth piece. Program registration is being held through Sept. 10 at the Larry D. Johnson Community Center, 1200 12th St. The cost to participate is $72 ($60 for Sparks residents). Financial assistance is available for children who cannot otherwise participate. Volunteer coaches currently are being recruited. Coaching experience isn't necessary. For more information, e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 775-353-7780. Andre Stigall is with the Sparks Parks & Recreation Department.

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