Chicago parents like Sandeep Basran are steering their children toward flag football after learning about the growing risk of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in tackle football. Basran, whose 9‑year‑old son plays in the i9 Sports flag league, says the “big concern is the CTE risk” and points to research showing that even minor, repetitive hits can add up over time.
Flag football offers a non‑contact alternative with fewer players, less equipment, and a faster pace, while still delivering the camaraderie and excitement of the sport. “If my son suffers a football injury, it could affect the next season of basketball, tennis, or golf that he loves,” Basran explained, noting that his son also participates in those sports.
National studies highlight the danger
Recent research published in April examined the brains of former NFL players who died between 2016 and 2021, finding that at least one in four had CTE. A follow‑up study expanded the sample and estimated that three out of four deceased players from 2008‑2023 likely had the disease, the highest estimate to date.
The NFL itself acknowledges ongoing efforts to make the game safer, including strategies to reduce concussions and head impacts.
Flag football’s rapid growth
Data from the Sports and Fitness Industry Association shows that between 2019 and 2024, flag football was the only team sport for kids ages 6‑17 that grew, up 14%, while tackle football fell 7%. By 2024, flag football had become the most commonly played form of the game among children ages 6‑12, surpassing tackle football in participation.
Investments by the NFL have helped fuel this rise. NFL FLAG now serves more than 620,000 kids ages 4‑17 nationwide, and the sport is slated to debut as an official Olympic event at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Local voices support the shift
In San Diego, parents like Tim Lewis see flag football thriving, especially for girls. “We’re seeing flag football explode at the high‑school level,” Lewis said, noting growing participation among both boys and girls.
Joe Becker, owner of i9 Sports in Chicago, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that flag football provides a primary outlet for girls to enjoy football, a sport traditionally dominated by boys.
Former college player Rashad Crawford added that the camaraderie and team spirit remain strong in flag football, even without the tackling component.
Looking ahead
With flag football’s expanding footprint and its upcoming Olympic debut, many parents believe the sport offers a safe, engaging way for children to stay active while avoiding the brain‑injury risks associated with tackle football.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut (Hartford) — read the source article.
