Playmakers Character and Leadership Academy events encourage all youth to participate. From mid-September through November, a free, inaugural Playmaker Flag Football will have two leagues for boys and girls: a league for youth between the ages of 6 and 14, and another league for youth with developmental differences. Photo courtesy of Playmakers Character and Leadership Academy

SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) - National Football League (NFL) FLAG games give boys and girls of all abilities an opportunity to develop fundamental football skills in a positive, inclusive environment, according to the NFL FLAG organization.

And now area youth will have an opportunity to develop those skills.

That’s because the nonprofit Playmakers Character and Leadership Academy is launching a free, inaugural Playmaker Flag Football in Citrus Heights next month.

Children with developmental differences of any ability, desire and age, plus their families, are encouraged to attend.  There will be two leagues, one for boys and girls between the ages of 6 and 14, and another league for boys and girls with developmental differences. 

Optimist Club of Country Club and Verde Design are providing the resources for The Playmakers to offer the free NFL Youth Flag Football.  

All participants will receive a jersey, wristband and qualified coaching from high school and college players.

The games and practices will be held at both Mesa Verde High School and San Juan High School in Citrus Heights.

“This program is possible through the cooperation of both Mesa and San Juan High schools, working together for the community of Citrus Heights, beginning mid-September through November,” said Playmakers founder Greg Roeszler. “Optimists and Verde Design want all kids and families to have the opportunity to participate. Playmakers ensures the character/leadership component of the coaching and oversight.”

The nonprofit Playmakers organization was founded by Roeszler in 2009 to build leadership and character through sports and academics. Roeszler is an Encina High School varsity football coach and a former quarterback/punter at the University of Minnesota and San Diego State, and camp quarterback with the Oakland Raiders

The Playmakers Flag Football contact/sign ups are at Theplaymakers.org

For more information about Playmakers Flag Football, call 916-220-1284 or email [email protected].