Boston Suburb Bans Tackling in Youth Football Program

Citing an increased risk of injury in tackle football and a decline in enrollment, the recreation department of a Boston suburb is switching its youth football program to a flag football program for grades one through eight.

Somerville (Mass.) Recreation announced the change last week. The nine-week flag football program will begin in the summer of 2016 for four leagues in grades 1-2, 3-4, 5-6 and 7-8.

“Particularly over the past few years, the rise in injuries among young people playing contact football, both in game situations and during regular practices, demonstrates a need for us to reevaluate the programs we offer to our youngest residents,” Jill Lathan, director of recreation and youth for the city of Somerville, said in a statement. “Somerville Recreation has a history of providing programs and opportunities for youth of all ages and interest levels, but we also have a commitment to keep our children safe while they have fun. Interest and participation in flag football is increasing both in Somerville and nationwide, and we are excited to be able to offer the program here in Somerville that will teach youth the necessary skills if they do choose to participate in contact football at an older age.”

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