Flag Football’s Heartwarming Impact Kids Share What Sports Mean to Them at International Championship

The excitement of sports often gets tied up with dreams of stardom, but for many young athletes, the true reward lies in the joy of play, camaraderie, and simple moments of fun.

At the NFL’s International Flag Football Championship in Orlando, a group of young athletes from around the world reminded us that for kids, sports are about much more than the win-loss column.

Ethan Taylor, a flag football player from Great Britain, spoke candidly about his love for the game during a media session at the Pro Bowl Games. “I think it’s just fun to play with others, and especially with people who are close to you,” said the young athlete, who participated in the event alongside his teammates.

“You can just have a laugh, and sometimes you can get competitive. If you win, you celebrate loads. If you lose, you still celebrate if you had a good time… but you’re a little sad,” he added with a smile.

The 12-and-under flag football tournament in Orlando offered kids the chance to not only compete on the world stage but also share their experiences and perspectives.

This year, for the first time, the NFL invited young players to participate in media availabilities, giving them a platform to discuss their team dynamics, aspirations, and the role of their families in their sports journey.

“What have your friends made of this and how jealous are they of you for being out in Orlando?” BBC reporter Phil Parry asked Team Great Britain.

Douglas Timms, the team’s quarterback, responded with humor, mentioning how his older sister might not be thrilled about him stealing the spotlight at home. “As the younger sibling, you have to push for the favorite child spot. So this has definitely, like, raised my ranking,” he said, jokingly.

Despite the lighthearted nature of the conversation, the underlying message about the joy of play was clear. Leah Kozubek, an 11-year-old rusher from Team Canada, emphasized that it’s not just about winning games but also about connecting with others.

“You get to play with boys but also connect with the girls on your team and make plays that nobody really thought you were capable of doing, and that really makes me proud,” she said.

The flag football movement, which boasts 20 million participants across more than 100 countries, thrives on inclusion and participation. It’s a sport that welcomes players of all skill levels, where every athlete, regardless of their experience or background, can contribute to the success of the team.

“It’s just another way to have a fun runaround with your mates and laugh over silly things,” Timms added, reflecting the essence of why these kids play in the first place.

While we, as parents and coaches, may sometimes get caught up in the competitiveness of the game, the athletes themselves remind us that sports are about creating positive experiences and memories. For many of them, it’s not about perfection or victory, but about the thrill of being part of a team and enjoying the game with friends and family.

“My mom’s definitely taking the spot for No. 1 fan,” said Timms, sharing a laugh about his loud and enthusiastic support from the sidelines. “Family is just one of the most important aspects of your life. They help you through everything.”

Flag football, a game of speed and strategy played on a smaller field, has also made waves among girls, with nearly 20 states now offering it as part of high school programs. Many of the teams in the international championship featured a mix of boys and girls, underscoring the sport’s commitment to inclusivity.

Jamil Springer, head coach of Team Canada, highlighted the beauty of flag football’s accessibility. “It doesn’t matter your size, background, or gender,” he said. “Flag Football is a game for everybody.” The tournament brought together teams from 13 countries, offering kids the opportunity to interact with peers from around the world and expand their horizons.

As the final match between Canada and Japan wrapped up the competition, the lasting takeaway was not the scores, but the unique chance these kids had to come together, share their experiences, and be celebrated for the simple love of the game. For them, the memories of Orlando and the friendships made there will outlast any trophy or title they might win.

This tournament served as a powerful reminder of what sports are truly about for kids: fun, friendships, and the shared experience of play. As coaches and parents, we can take a cue from these young athletes and remember to cherish the moments that make sports such a special part of childhood.