“The game is about more than learning physical skills and football movements. From character development to social skills to cognitive development, USA Football is partnering with experts from some of the biggest playmakers in these arenas to develop resources to develop the whole athlete.”

“USA Football works with its FDM Council – a group of medical, football and long-term athlete development experts – to open more paths to the game and improve upon existing ones.  Players will learn in an age-appropriate way, building confidence and enthusiasm for an inspired football journey through better experiences.”

Our organization will be fully embracing the USA Football guidelines and best practices to provide our community a safe, engaging and efficacious youth football experience. Also, all of our coaches will go through the robust 5 hour long online coaching certification that they provide.

The priorities of USA Football are as follows:

1.  Total-person development; respect for self and others, confidence, unselfishness, physical and mental wellness and more.

2.  General athlete development; develop universal skills and abilities that are applicable to all sports based on on the 10 General Physical Skills (strength, flexibility, stamina, cardiorespiratory endurance, power, speed, balance, agility, coordination and accuracy).

3.  Football development; start with a broad exposure to football specific skills and progress them strategically over time.

USA Football is backed by 3 of the top Sports Medicine organizations in America; the American College for Sports Medicine, the American Medical Society for Sport Medicine, and the National Athletic Trainers Association

Football Developmental Model, FDM

The FDM has reinvented youth football with new game types and practice guidelines that fits the athletes stage of development and builds a strong foundation of skills.

“Like many sports, football has changed and evolved over time. Regardless of the challenges it has faced, the sport remains “America’s game” with millions of young athletes participating nationwide.” – USA Football website

“Our model is designed to be a smarter and safer way to play and teach the game.  By establishing different levels of contact and game types at each game category, parents can identify the right entry point for their athlete.  For coaches, the model helps USA Football further advance standards in coach education and certification.” – USA Football website 

“There should be a system for introducing them to contact gradually and safely, in a controlled environment – and there is through youth tackle football practice guidelines from USA Football.” – Merrel Hoge

The 6 Pillars of the FDM

1. Whole Person and Multi-Sport Development

2. Coach Education and Training

3. Fun and Fulfilling

4. Physical Literacy and Skill Development

5. Multiple Pathways and Entry Points

6. Participation and Retention