Flag football is a non-contact version of American football where players wear a belt with two flags hanging from their hips. Instead of tackling, the defense "tackles" the ball carrier by pulling one of their flags off the belt — the play ends right there.

It's the same game you love — touchdowns, routes, formations, and strategy — without the tackling, blocking, or heavy equipment. Every player is eligible to catch a pass, including the quarterback, which means more action and more opportunities for every kid on the field every single play.

Charm City Athletics runs NFL Flag — the official youth flag football program of the NFL — with divisions tailored to each age group so kids are always competing at the right level.

The field has two 10-yard end zones on each end with a playing field in the middle.

There are No Run Zones marked 5 yards from each end zone and on each side of the midfield line. When the offense is inside a No Run Zone, they must use a pass play — no running. This keeps the game spread out and prevents power football in tight spaces.

• Games start with a coin toss or rock paper scissors — there are no kickoffs.
• Each game consists of two 22-minute halves with a running clock — the clock only stops for halftime, team timeouts, or player injury.
• The offense starts on their own 5-yard line with 4 downs (plays) to cross midfield for a first down.
• Once past midfield, the offense gets 4 downs to score a touchdown.
• If they fail to get a first down or score, the other team takes over from the spot of the ball — or the offense can "punt" and give the ball back from the 5-yard line.
• The quarterback has 7 seconds to release the ball — if they don't, the play is dead.
• No fumbles — if the ball hits the ground, it's spotted right there and play stops.
• A play ends when a flag is pulled, the ball carrier steps out of bounds, or their knee or arm touches the ground.

• No tackling, blocking, or screening — any intentional contact is a penalty.
• The QB cannot run across the line of scrimmage.
• Players cannot guard their flags — hands must stay away from the belt.
• In Pee Wee and Junior divisions, no rushing the QB. In Senior, all defenders can rush but must start behind an 8-yard rush line from the line of scrimmage.
• All forward passes must be caught beyond the line of scrimmage.
• Players can spin to avoid defenders but cannot leap or dive to avoid a flag pull.
• Everyone is eligible to catch a pass — including the QB after a handoff.

• Arrive at your scheduled time — practice starts promptly.
• Your athlete will warm up and run drills for 30 minutes, then play a 60-minute game.
• Games are played Sunday afternoons at Banner Field at Latrobe Park or Digital Harbor High School.
• Bring the jersey and flag belt every week — these are required to play.
• Jerseys must be tucked in and flag belts worn properly before taking the field.
• Mouthguards are required — come to the field ready to play.
• Cleats are strongly recommended. No jewelry or anything that could snag during play.
• Coaches and refs keep the game moving — encourage your athlete from the sidelines and cheer for both teams.