Over the weekend, the Regina Youth Flag Football League received the prestigious title of League of the Year by NFL Flag, beating out all other North American leagues.
Mike Thomas was representing the league at the NFL Flag Summit in Atlanta, where the announcement was made.
On Monday’s edition of the SportsCage, Thomas joined Michael Ball. When the Regina league was announced as the winner, Thomas described the moment as “surreal.”
The league now in its 17th season, started with 75 players and has since grown to include over 3,100 players.
Thomas gives credit to the volunteers for the success of the league.
“Great amount of volunteers, good individuals that have allowed the game to be played and coached to young people.”
He adds that Flag Football provides great value for players and their parents.
“At the end of the day, if your child plays in a sport and the child enjoys themselves and you yourself finds it was great value and not overpriced, the timing and you enjoyed yourself, that makes you want to return annually.”
Along with the players, several other components help the league make it a success, said Thomas.
This past season there were over 600 coaches and 100+ officials.
As a grassroots league, Thomas explained the Regina Youth Flag Football League has established successful relationships with the University of Regina Rams and Regina Thunder football teams, along with support from the Regina Riot during the fall.
Thomas thinks it’s great to see players help out as coaches.
“It’s the understanding at some point at time for anyone that has ever played this game, no matter how old or young they are, there was someone that gave their time to help be where they are.”
Thomas explains that their experience as young players is the reason why they seldom encounter resistance when requesting volunteer coaches from amateur teams.
More information on the Regina Youth Flag Football League can be found here. https://reginayouthflagfootball.com/
