The New England Patriots have declared August as Play Football Month, a month‑long celebration that brings together youth football programs, community partners, and fans across the region. The initiative weaves together training camp activities, preseason games, and a slate of clinics designed to introduce new players to the sport while emphasizing safety and teamwork.
Three teams with direct ties to the Patriots — the 8U Mass Mambas, the 14U Girls Run It Back squad, and the 12U Rec Metro Boston champions — have advanced to the quarterfinals and championship rounds of the 2026 NFL FLAG Championships in Indiana. Their progress illustrates the organization’s investment in developing talent at every age level and showcases the depth of youth football across New England.
Women in Football Day Highlights August
On August 1, the club will observe Women in Football Day with an exhibition game that welcomes Dr. Jen Welter to the field, while the Kick [Gl]ass exhibit will be showcased at Gillette Stadium. The event celebrates the growing presence of women in the sport and provides a platform for trailblazers to inspire the next generation of players.
A VIP Training Camp experience, sponsored by Bridgestone, is scheduled for August 3 and will provide 50 Rhode Island high‑school girls flag football athletes with elite coaching, mentorship, and exposure to professional‑level techniques. The partnership underscores Bridgestone’s commitment to community outreach and gender equity in sports.
The following day, August 4, a Parent & Youth Educational Clinic will open its doors to children ages six through twelve, offering hands‑on instruction in football fundamentals and safety led by Patriots alumni. The clinic equips families with the knowledge needed to support young athletes both on and off the field.
Halftime scrimmages will punctuate the preseason schedule, featuring four Pop Warner teams during the August 13 game against the Indianapolis Colts, and later in the month, co‑ed and high school girls teams will take the field during the August 22 matchup with the Philadelphia Eagles. These moments provide additional platforms for young players to showcase their skills in a high‑visibility setting.
While girls flag football is gaining momentum — with more than 20 states now sanctioning the sport at the varsity level — only one New England state currently hosts a championship. The Patriots hope to help close that gap through continued outreach, inclusive programming, and partnerships with local organizations.
These initiatives reflect the NFL’s broader year‑round strategy to nurture youth and high school football through camps, clinics, and community engagement. By linking grassroots efforts with the excitement of the Patriots’ preseason schedule, the league reinforces its dedication to accessibility, skill development, and the next generation of players across New England and beyond.