Three brothers with deep roots in California high school and professional football have joined forces to launch a new youth flag football league called Rising Stars. Casey, Rick and Jimmy Clausen, each a former quarterback at the high school or NFL level, are using their experience to give boys and girls a chance to learn the game in a structured, fall setting.
A family legacy takes shape
The inaugural season will kick off on Sunday, August 16, and will be held weekly at three venues in the Southland: Agoura, Oak Park and Westlake. Each location will host divisions that span from third grade through eighth grade, with the oldest participants being sixth‑graders. Six of the Clausen children will compete in the league, which is designed to emphasize skill development over competition.
Local institutions are already on board. Bishop Alemany, a longtime athletic powerhouse, and Westlake, another prominent high school program, are providing fields and logistical support. The California Prep Sportswriters Assn. has also pledged coverage, highlighting the league’s potential to reshape youth sports in the region.
Empowering a new generation
A central goal of Rising Stars is to increase participation among girls, who historically have had fewer opportunities to play organized football. Eric Sondheimer, a veteran Los Angeles Times high school sports columnist, praised the initiative, noting that "the league could be a catalyst for broader acceptance of girls in the sport" and that community interest has been unexpectedly strong.
Parents and coaches alike have expressed enthusiasm for the inclusive format. By focusing on flag football, the league eliminates the physical contact concerns that often deter families from traditional tackle programs, while still preserving the strategic elements that make football appealing.
Looking ahead, the Clausen brothers plan to evaluate the pilot season’s impact and consider expanding the schedule to additional neighborhoods. Their ultimate aim is to create a sustainable model that can be replicated across the state, ensuring that more young athletes, regardless of gender, can experience the camaraderie and life lessons that football offers.