The Chicago Bears brought their Monster Flag Football clinic to Rockford, Illinois, gathering 175 girls between the ages of 10 and 18 for a day of skill development on the field.
Now in its third year, the Bears‑sponsored program seeks to introduce newcomers to flag football while sharpening the abilities of those already playing, reflecting a sustained commitment to youth engagement.
Under the guidance of Bears running back Kyle Monangai and Laneah Bryan, a cornerback who earned a spot on the U.S. national team just five years after picking up the sport, participants rotated through drills that emphasized flag‑pulling, route‑running, catching, agility and hand‑eye coordination.
College and high school coaches assisted the athletes, offering insights that blended professional technique with practical, on‑the‑ground teaching.
Monangai encouraged the girls to enjoy the competition and stay focused on fun, while Bryan, who transitioned from Division I basketball to flag football, shared how quickly the sport can open doors when paired with dedication.
The clinic also served as a reminder of Rockford’s early role in expanding the game; the city hosted the Northern Illinois Girls Flag Football league in 2022 and even staged Illinois’ first collegiate women’s flag football match between Rockford University and Benedictine University.
A Community‑Driven Push for Girls’ Flag Football
Gustavo Silva, the Bears’ director of football development, underscored the importance of such community‑based initiatives, noting that early exposure to football can shape lifelong participation.
Parents and volunteers watched as the youngsters executed drills with enthusiasm, a visual testament to the growing interest in flag football across the Midwest.