NFL Flag Football

NFL Flag Football is coming to the Whatcom Family YMCA this fall. This youth league gives kids the chance to learn the game, build confidence, and make friendships that last beyond the field.

🆕 Youth Flag Football Skills Clinic

Get ready for the season with the Whatcom Family YMCA's Youth Flag Football Skills Clinic! This two-week clinic introduces players to the fundamentals of flag football while building the skills and confidence needed for success in the Fall NFL Flag Football League.

Participants will learn passing, receiving, route running, flag pulling, offensive and defensive concepts, teamwork, and sportsmanship through fun drills and age-appropriate instruction.

Clinic Details

  • Dates: September 1–10, 2026
  • Practice Days: Tuesdays & Thursdays
  • Location: Downer Fields (next to the Arne Hanna Aquatic Center)

Practice Times & Group Sizes

  • Kindergarten–1st Grade: 4:30–5:30 PM (12 spots available)
  • 2nd–5th Grade: 5:30–6:30 PM (20 spots available)
  • 6th–8th Grade: 6:30–7:30 PM (20 spots available)

Clinic Registration Fees

  • YMCA Members: $45
  • Community Participants: $75

Space is limited — register early to reserve your spot! This clinic is the perfect warm-up before the league kicks off September 14.

🆕 NFL Flag Football League — Fall 2026

Join the Whatcom Family YMCA for our inaugural NFL Flag Football League! Open to youth ages 5–14 (Kindergarten through 8th grade), this official NFL FLAG program gives players the opportunity to learn the game, develop skills, build teamwork, and have fun in a structured league environment.

Players will receive an official NFL FLAG jersey and participate in 5v5 games throughout the season. Divisions will be created based on registration numbers and age groups. Scores and standings will be kept for all divisions.

Program Details

  • Ages: 5–14 (Kindergarten–8th Grade)
  • Season: September 14 through October 24, 2026
  • Registration: June 8 through August 30
  • Location: Downer Fields (next to the Arne Hanna Aquatic Center)
  • Cost: $125 YMCA Members / $175 Community Members

Season Schedule

  • Practices: September 15, 17, 22 & 24
  • Games: September 29, October 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 20 & 22

Registration Notes

  • You will have the option to request a specific coach during registration
  • You will have the option to request to be placed on a team with a friend
  • Teams and divisions will be formed based on registrations and responses to those questions

Volunteer Coaches Needed!

Help make this season a success by volunteering as a coach — no prior coaching experience required! Interested volunteers can apply via the Volunteer Application on the Whatcom Family YMCA homepage. Volunteer coaches will also be required to attend a preseason coaches meeting (date and time TBD).

The Fast Feet and First Downs Place

Flag football at the Y is about more than touchdowns. Players learn football fundamentals while building strategic thinking, leadership, communication skills, and sportsmanship in a safe, non-contact environment.

Whether your child is brand new to football or already loves the sport, this program is designed for all skill levels. Coaches focus on positive development, teamwork, and fun so every player has a place to learn, play, and belong.

Youth flag football animation

Why Flag Football?

  • Non-contact fun for all skill levels
  • Coaches focused on positive development
  • Emphasis on safety, teamwork, and sportsmanship
  • A supportive environment where kids build confidence and make friends

Registration opens June 8. Make this place your place for football, friendship, and unforgettable moments.

Questions? Contact Dan Parine at dparine@whatcomymca.org.