This summer Sport Calgary partnered with the Stampeders to provide a four-week introductory flag football program for youth aged 6-15 years.

The program, coached by Calgary Flames Classroom Crew, was designed for kids who had never played flag football before, many of whom were newcomers. Participants were connected through valued community partners including Football Hockey Link, Diversecities Centre for Newcomers, Umoja, Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth, and local social workers.

A total of 100 youth registered for the program, with sessions drawing strong participation each week. Over the course of the program, kids learned skills from experienced coaches and played alongside professional athletes. Each week, 3-5 Calgary Stampeders professional players joined the sessions, playing with, inspiring, and signing t-shirts for the young participants.

To celebrate their progress, kids received a Sport Calgary x Stampeders swag bag, and those who attended at least three sessions were awarded two tickets to the October 18th Stampeders game.

This initiative provided youth with the opportunity to try a new sport in a fun, inclusive environment while connecting with local role models. The collaboration between Sport Calgary and the Stampeders showcased the power of sport to create community, inspire confidence, and open doors for young people.

A special thanks goes out to Football Hockey Link volunteers who were there to help at every session!

Check out an article in the Calgary Herald about this event: