Youth Football: Some 5- And 6-year-olds Across Illinois Suit Up For Tackle Football, But Is It Safe?

When Michael Zuehlke’s oldest son, Nick, wanted to play football a few years ago, Zuehlke signed his then-5-year-old up for flag football with the Crystal Lake Raiders.  That year, the Raiders informed Zuehlke that interest in the flag football program had waned. Not enough kids signed up. They gave the Zuehlkes the option to take a refund or sign up Nick for “flyweight” football – a modified version of tackle football for 5- and 6-year-olds that some programs within The Chicagoland Youth Football League play.  Zuehlke left the option up to Nick, who said he wanted to try tackle.