Park Bench Creating Opportunities Through Youth Flag Football Since the early 2000s, the Youth NFL Flag Football program offered through City of Folsom (California) Parks and Recreation Department has made a lasting positive impact on local youth. Designed to be welcoming, fun and development-focused, the program has grown into a cornerstone of the community, averaging 450 participants from sec-ond through eighth grade annually. One of the program’s greatest strengths is its ability to foster friendships. Our flag football brings together kids from different schools and backgrounds, encouraging teamwork, communication and sportsmanship. For many participants, the bonds formed on the field turn into lasting friendships off the field, helping children feel connected and supported within their community. Beyond friendships, the program plays a vital role in building confidence. Players develop new skills, learn the value of teamwork and gain self-esteem through positive coaching, with all coaches completing training led by the sports depart-ment. By emphasizing skill development and fun over physical contact and intense competition, the recreational program creates a welcoming environment where all players can feel successful, regardless of experience level. Most importantly, the Youth NFL Flag Football program demonstrates that football is for everyone, including girls. During the past few seasons, Folsom Parks and Recreation has seen a steady increase in girls participation, reflecting a broader shift in how youth sports are viewed. Girls discover that they belong on the field just as much as boys, gaining confidence, leadership skills and a strong sense of empowerment along the way. With the recent creation of the Next Level Sports Girls Flag Football League in the area, participation is expected to grow even further. These new opportunities reinforce the message that girls can play, compete and thrive in this sport. Together, these programs are shaping a future where flag football inspires confidence, welcomes all and fosters a lifelong love of the game for all participants. – Frankie Nelson, Senior Recreation Coordinator and CPRS District 2 Director of Public Relations, City of Folsom, California PHOTO COURTESY OF FRANKIE NELSON City of Folsom (California) Parks and Recreation Department connects children with opportunities to gain confidence and build friendships through flag football. 56 Parks & Recreation | APRIL 2026 | PARKSANDRECREATION.ORG
Parks Recreation Magazine April 2026: Page 56
