First Madison Upward football league to hit field in June

Madison will get its first Upward Flag Football league and six-game season starting in late June.

By Nick Sellers | Staff Reporter

“Fundamentals of the game, as well as life lessons,” are what Jeff Dickerson says kids will pick up from Madison’s first Upward Flag Football league.

Dickerson said after running three flag football camps last summer, it was apparent there was a need for something larger and more substantial for the community.

“It’s perfect for those kids who’ve never played football,” Dickerson said.

Online registration for the league, which is hosted by First Baptist Church Madison, is ongoing and will conclude sometime before the first on-field evaluation on June 14.

Area kids entering kindergarten through sixth grade are encouraged to register. Registration is $65. The six-game season is set to begin on June 28 and end on August 9.

“Evaluations [on June 14] would be a series of catching drills, zone drills, a passing drill where they will be judged on power and accuracy,” Dickerson said. “Just basic skills so we can balance the teams.”

The league will use Dublin Park No. 6 for all practices and games. Dickerson said there will be one hour-long practice per week, but not being present for practice won’t exclude participants from game-time action.

Differing from most youth leagues is Upward’s commitment to adherence of Christian values in practices and games. There will be a lesson from Scripture at every practice and at halftime of every game.

“There is the Christian aspect, as well as teaching good sportsmanship,” Dickerson said.

In the meantime, Dickerson expressed the need for volunteer coaches to mentor the kids throughout the season. He implores anyone anxious to get involved to visit the Upward Sports Madison Facebook page and upward.org for more information.

“We believe this is a wonderful outreach opportunity for Madison that can provide community building during summer break,” Dickerson said.