Lazaro Rotelli

Flag football is a great alternate sport to contact football. It can teach the same core values such as sportsmanship, teamwork, having fun, and individual hard work. However, if not taken seriously, the sport can also be as dangerous as contact football.

The source for keeping the players safe starts with the COACHES. Every coach of the team should keep a constant watch of all activities during practice and games. The following is a list of important safety measures each coach should keep in mind:

1. Player’s attitude. It only takes one unruly player to influence everyone else. Coaches should take control early with these players. Each coach should have appropriate reprimands in mind for when these issues arise. Teach the players one main rule, if the behavior is not appropriate for school or their home, it is ALSO not appropriate for the field.

2. Equipment. Coaches should always keep a close eye on each player’s equipment. Make sure shoes are tied, mouth pieces are used, shirts are tucked in, no pockets on the shorts just to name a few.

3. Aggressive play versus reckless play. Each coach should have a whistle ready to blow to prevent accidental or reckless contact. Teach the players to stop play immediately when they hear the whistle. Coaches should blow the whistle a little early when contact is anticipated, especially during practice, to avoid overly aggressive players from causing injury to themselves or others. Coaches should encourage aggressive play but teach each player the difference between aggressive verses reckless play.

4. Keep practice interesting for all players. Coaches should have a well organized and structured practice plan ready ahead of time. It is obvious to both parents and players when the coach is making things up as he goes along. Having a structured practice plan will also keep players from just standing around waiting on something to do. This opens the door for horseplay from the players. Make sure each practice drill keeps each player moving by avoiding long lines. If necessary, utilize assistant coaches by having two or three groups doing the same drill separately.

5. Stretching and warm-ups. The coach should have each player participate in stretching and warm up drills before practice or games begin. This is important at every age. Even though youth players are naturally flexible and have tons of energy, they still need proper reinforcement for muscle and health care. Without proper stretching and warm up, youth players can injure muscles without knowing it. Sometimes these injuries will not affect them until months or years later.

There are many sources for practice drills available on the internet. Do your research and don’t make a decision to purchase a manual too fast. Review the website and make sure the company appears to be reputable.

For more information on practice drills, click here.

As one of the faster growing sports, flag football is an enjoyable sport for boys and girls around the world. This is a sport individuals can continue to play the rest of their lives. Parents and coaches should follow the five tips above to make sure each player stays safe and so they can continue to enjoy the sport for years to come.

Daniel Crumley is the author of over 20 books on the sport of Flag Football. He has 22 years experience playing and coaching in the sport. Please review his books and current activities at http://www.goflagfootball.com

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