Where to play
Looking for a league in your area? Use our tool of youth leagues here, and check back as we update the list quarterly.
If you want to participate in a specific league, the below each have their own league finder.
Click icons below to learn more.
Equipment
NOCSAE
The National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) is an independent and nonprofit standards development body with the sole mission to enhance athletic safety through scientific research and the creation of performance standards for athletic equipment. NOCSAE sets performance and test standards for athletic equipment. NOCSAE does not certify or approve athletic equipment. Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) oversees the certification of athletic equipment to NOCSAE standards.
Virginia Tech Helmet Ratings
Since 2011, Virginia Tech researchers have been providing unbiased helmet ratings that allow consumers to make informed decisions when purchasing helmets. The helmet ratings are the culmination of over 15 years of research on head impacts in sports and identify which helmets best reduce concussion risk. This work is done as part of Virginia Tech’s service mission and is 100% independent of any funding or influence from helmet manufacturers.
A total of 27 varsity football helmets, 31 youth football helmets, and 27 flag football headgear have been rated using the STAR evaluation system. The impact tests evaluate a helmet's ability to reduce linear and rotational acceleration of the head resulting from a range of head impacts a football player might see on the field. Helmets with more stars provide a reduction in concussion risk for these impacts compared to helmets with less stars.
NFL Play Football
The NFL’s Play Football initiatives provide a fun and engaging experience for players of all ages and skill levels, equipping young people with vital, transferable life skills that are building blocks to success in life on and off the field.
Website: playfootball.nfl.com
For Parents
Parents play an important role in setting kids up for success on and off the football field. From best practices on nutrition and staying hydrated, to tips to working with coaches, learn how to help your kids get the most out of their playing experience.
Discover Youth Tackle Football
Infographic to share with interested parents
Discover FLAG Football
Infographic to share with interested parents
For Coaches
As leaders, coaches are responsible for teaching players the values of football that extend beyond the field. From tips on communicating with both parents and players to the NFL Way to Play, explore resources to help build your coaching style.
Growing Youth Tackle Football
Infographic to share with interested coaches
Growing NFL FLAG Football
Infographic to share with interested coaches
NFL Way to Play
Tips for Coaches
The best football coaches in the world know the Way to Play. Watch as they share proven fundamental football concepts, best coaching practices and advice on how to coach each position on the field. Use these videos to build a coaching style, set standards for young players and more.
Helpful videos
Download the NFL Way to Play Playbook
Tips for Players
Learn from some of the best to ever play the game. Current players and NFL Legends share tips and advice on proper nutrition, physical preparation and maintaining offseason fitness.
Helpful videos
Download the NFL Way to Play Playbook
NFL Way to Play High School Award
The weekly NFL Way to Play High School Award celebrates the best examples of playing technique from high school players around the country.
Coaches, do you have a player that exemplifies the NFL Way to Play and deserves to be recognized? Fill out the form and submit their names for the running.