Rockford Park District flag football teams scrimmage at halftime of Bears vs. Packers playoff game
Area NFL Flag Football players and coaches were featured during halftime of the Chicago Bears verses Green Bay Packers playoff game Saturday Night at Soldier Field.
Two 14U Boys Flag Football teams and two middle school girls Flag Football teams played a scrimmage during halftime.
The 14U Boys team, coached by Martin Hyatte, won the Chicago Bears NFL FLAG regional tournament, which debuted in Rockford last fall at the newly renovated Clarence Hicks Sports Complex. The other 14U Boys team, coached by James Wright, was the runner-up at that tournament.
Last fall, the Rockford Park District began a Middle School Girls Flag Football League, with 225 athletes participating in the inaugural season. The Rockford Co-Op team, coached by Shian Galbreath, went on to finish the season with a record of 9-0 and win the league’s first championship. The Rockford Co-Op team scrimmaged with the Roscoe-Rockton Indians, coached by Mike Pillar.
The Chicago Bears donated $50,000 to the Rockford Park District last year to launch its inaugural middle school league, providing opportunities for middle school girls from diverse backgrounds to participate in this rapidly growing sport. Chosen athletes demonstrated their skills in front of thousands of fans, celebrating the impact of youth flag football and the dedication of local players, coaches, and families. This unique opportunity highlights the continued growth and success of the Rockford Park District’s youth sports programs and its partnership with the Chicago Bears NFL FLAG initiative.
“This was an incredible moment for our athletes, and it’s all thanks to the Chicago Bears organization, which continues to support area youth in meaningful and memorable ways. This opportunity also represents the dedication these athletes have shown in developing their skills, teamwork, and love for the game,” said Lamont Jones, General Manager of Youth Sports and Clarence Hicks Sports Complex.
The NFL gameday experience also included being on the sidelines watching players warm up, getting special Chicago Bears merchandise, taking a bus to Chicago, and being a part of one of the league’s most historic rivalries.
