Rockford Youth Teams Head to NFL Flag Championships

Two of Rockford’s youth flag football squads have earned spots at the NFL Flag Championships, set for July 23‑26 at Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield, Indiana. The program, launched in 2002, claims the title of one of the longest‑running NFL Flag initiatives and holds the distinction of being the nation’s second‑oldest continuously operating league in this format. Their appearance joins more than 350 boys and girls teams from 32 NFL clubs, highlighting a sport that now boasts over 20 million participants across 100+ countries and six continents. The national event is billed as the premier tournament for regional flag football champions.

The Rockford Park District is using an image to illustrate its youth sports leadership, which features the district’s general manager for Clarence Hicks Sports Complex and Youth Sports Programs.

Why This Trip Matters

The Rockford Bears are preparing for a final practice before the journey east. Scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on July 21, the session will take place at Clarence Hicks Sports Complex. This last drill gives the players a chance to fine‑tune tactics and build team cohesion before stepping onto the national stage. The championship will showcase the district’s dedication to skill development and inclusive competition.

Meet the 10U Rockford Bears

• Donterious Ashford – Cherry Valley Elementary School

• Jayceon Craig – RESA Middle School

• Aamarion Crittle – Machesney Park Elementary School

• Jaxson Mangruen – Cherry Valley Elementary School

• Kaden Martinez – Bloom Elementary School

• Carmelo McClelland – Whitehead Elementary School

• Kamden Montoya – Jones‑Farrar

• Dominic Sherman – Rockford Christian

• Demarious Tyler Jr. – Riverdahl Elementary School

• Cooper Whaley – Brookview Elementary School

Coach Lavar Johnson will guide the 10U squad, focusing on fundamentals and teamwork as they prepare for the national bracket.

Meet the 14U Rockford Bears

• Charlie Gargani – Guilford High School

• Cordae Henson – Auburn High School

• Leon Horton – Rockford Lutheran School

• Vidale Johnson – East High School

• Jaxon Lester – Maria Montessori School

• Marquell Longs – East High School

• Amari McClelland – Harlem High School

• Carter Rolfe – East High School

• Cameron Wagaman – Rockford Lutheran School

• Harris Wagaman – Rockford Lutheran School

The 14U side is led by coaches Martin Hyatte and Jonata Pike, who will work with the players to sharpen strategies and stamina for the tournament.

Qualification for the NFL Flag Championships highlights Rockford’s long‑standing commitment to youth development and puts local talent on a national stage. Fans can look forward to seeing the Bears compete against top regional teams and continue the district’s tradition of excellence in flag football. The experience will not only test skill but also foster leadership and camaraderie among the participants. This chance at national exposure underscores the growing popularity of flag football and Rockford’s role in nurturing the next generation of athletes.