Yes. While our aim is for every player to have a spot, we've decided not to place this specific limit because we appreciate and empathize with parents who truly want to provide an ideal growth environment for their kids during all the winter months.

Yes. In fact, we encourage this because it gives more advanced players the opportunity to take on leadership and mentoring roles where they help and encourage players in the Rise leagues striving to improve their skills. This helps players on both sides of the equation.

The other cool benefit is that this provides an environment where a Next player can inspire and teach Rise players on his team and the opposing team by performing more intricate moves and plays. Additionally, teaching is a very effective way of learning the thing we teach to others. This can benefit the Next player as well as he truly internalizes the biomechanics and dynamics of the moves as he is forced to explain them while he teaches Rise players.

As we've mentioned, we're continuing to refine and optimize the UA Flag experience for our players to ensure maximum fulfillment and growth. This innovative approach has shown us that signing up entire Next teams with significantly higher average skill levels to play against Rise teams earlier in their growth curves creates scenarios of domination and discouragement for otherwise budding players who need a more supportive environment for growth. This also negatively impacts the Next players in ways that may not be obvious at first. The best way to explain this is by painting the ideal scenario instead. For Next coaches who want their players to benefit from extra league play in the Rise leagues, these players will get more benefit from NOT having all their Next players on the same team, for the following reasons:

1. If all your team members are also at a higher level, there won't be any opportunity for the opposing team to challenge your players. Science (and our experience) tells us that the most growth occurs when we step outside our comfort zones rather than remaining in extreme comfort. Six advanced players competing against six budding players is a prime example of keeping the advanced players in extreme comfort.

2. Your Next players also won’t have the chance to develop qualities like leadership, mentorship, and support for players earlier in their growth curve. When they play only alongside other highly skilled players, they miss the opportunity to guide and mentor less experienced teammates in need of leadership.

3. Coaches may believe that grouping all their players on one team helps them "gel" and build "chemistry." In reality, this approach often acclimates their Next players to lower levels of challenge. Based on what we know about nervous system growth through protein synthesis in response to repeated stimuli, this adaptation to easier competition can actually hinder performance when facing higher-level opponents. The best way for Next players to develop chemistry is through practicing plays and scrimmaging with other players of similar skill.

4. Teaching Next players to dominate less-skilled groups instills values contrary to those we all recognize as admirable. Instead of fostering strength, maturity, and protective instincts, it encourages dominance over those less capable. Next players should aspire to excel at a higher level while fostering growth and encouragement in developing players.
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Flag football is one of the fastest growing youth sports for both boys and girls in not only Canada, but North America, while also showing growth in unexpected areas like Europe. The sport offers a compelling and rational way to enjoy all the perks of football without the risk of head injuries often found in tackle football.

All players will receive an Under Armour RISE Flag Football jersey. Players also need to bring their own shorts (with no pockets) for games, and their own mouthguard. While not mandatory, we encourage players to wear cleats for better traction and performance.

Refunds are available if requested before the season begins, though processing fees may apply. Once the season starts, refunds are typically not provided, except for medical or extenuating circumstances. For further details or to request a refund, please contact our support team.

Our RISE program relies on dedicated parent volunteers to coach their children’s teams. No prior experience is needed - just enthusiasm and a commitment to making the season great! Training and resources are provided to support all volunteer coaches.