A milestone for local youth
Two youth flag football teams from the Rockford Park District, the 10U Rockford Bears and the 14U Rockford Bears, have earned berths in the NFL Flag Championships scheduled for July 23‑26 in Westfield, Indiana.
The tournament will be held at the Grand Park Sports Campus and will feature more than 350 teams representing 32 NFL clubs, making it the premier showcase for regional flag‑football winners.
The Rockford Park District’s flag‑football program, launched in 2002, is among the longest‑running NFL‑affiliated leagues in the country, underscoring the community’s deep‑rooted commitment to the sport.
Flag football’s reach has expanded dramatically, with over 20 million players in more than 100 countries across six continents, highlighting its role as a skill‑development platform that welcomes participants of all backgrounds.
Before heading to Indiana, the Bears will hold a final practice on the evening of July 21 at Clarence Hicks Sports Complex, where coaches Lavar Johnson and Martin Hyatte will give the squads a last tactical briefing.
The 10U side is led by Lavar Johnson, while the 14U team is guided by Martin Hyatte and Jonata Pike, both of whom have shaped the group’s development throughout the season.
The upcoming competition not only offers the young athletes a chance to test their abilities on a national stage but also reflects the growing popularity of non‑contact football as a vehicle for inclusive play.