Blue Bombers futures spring flag football season kicks off at princess auto stadium in Winnipeg

It’s a special weekend for thousands of young athletes getting a taste of the big leagues at Princess Auto Stadium, as Football Manitoba’s Blue Bombers Futures spring flag football season kicks off.

“Flag football, this particular program, has been running for just over 20 years now,” said Bill Johnson, executive director of Football Manitoba. “I’ve been involved for almost eight. We’ve seen astronomical growth, especially in the last few years. We’re up to almost 2,400 kids now. When I first started, it was around 800.”

The league is open to players aged six to 17, with more than 50 coaches involved. Games are typically held at various fields throughout the city, but opening weekend is a special two-day event at Princess Auto Stadium, giving young players the chance to step onto the same turf as their CFL heroes.

“We don’t always get a chance. Last year we didn’t get on the big field because they were doing renovations and things like that,” said Johnson. “But it’s just cool. When you see the kids get out there, where they see Nick Demski and Zach Collaros play, it’s a really cool thing.”

Volunteer coach Larry Chief, in his first season on the sidelines, said the excitement is contagious.

“It’s just so great for the kids — and me too,” said Chief. “I’m just so excited, just as excited as the kids out here today.”

Chief’s son Jacob is one of the many players taking part this season. He said flag football is an ideal introduction to the game.

“It gets them out there, it gets them to interact with other kids, and it teaches them the fundamentals of the game,” he said. “You know, before tackle football starts coming up — flag football is great.”

For many of the players, the league is about more than just sport. It’s a chance to be active, make new friends and create lifelong memories.

The season runs until mid-June.