NYO FLAG FOOTBALL
In 1951, Georgia Sports Hall of Fame Coach, Bob Blackwell created a football team of thirteen young boys from North Atlanta. This small football squad, called the Red Devils, would evolve into one of the largest, intra-park football programs in the entire country. Today, Northside Youth Organization’s football program boasts nearly 900 players from Kindergarten through 7th grade separated into six leagues. Thousands of boys through the years have played at NYO and learned both football and life lessons. Many of our NYO Football alumni recall some of their fondest memories as youngsters occurring on the fields at Chastain Park.
In conjunction with NYO’s mission, our football program emphasizes character development, sportsmanship, healthy competition, and positive coaching. Most importantly, NYO football is FUN!!!
FLAG FOOTBALL
In 2013, NYO established a flag football program for players in Kindergarten and 1st grade. In 2019, we extended the program to 2nd Grade. NYO Flag Football plays a slightly modified version of the game, with 8 players from each team on the field during play, with approximately 12 players on each team's roster. One coach from each team is allowed on the field at all times to promote faster play and instruction between downs. All players will participate in at least half of each game. NYO will provide, footballs, flag belts, and a uniform (t-shirt and shorts). Parents must provide molded rubber cleats, required mouthpieces, and required soft protective headgear (e.g Guardian Loop or full soft helmet). The season runs from late August through the middle of November.
