The History of Elk River Flag Football

 

2017: Identifying the Need

The seeds of Elk River Flag Football (ERFF) were sown in 2017 when Elk River Parks & Recreation approached our founder about assuming leadership of their existing flag football program. At the time, our founder served on the Elk River Youth Football Board of Directors and proposed that the organization take the program under its wing. However, the board chose to maintain its singular focus on tackle football. 

2018: Overcoming Obstacles

Driven to provide a quality flag football experience, our founder explored a partnership with National Flag Football. Unfortunately, a school district policy prohibiting the distribution of flyers—a requirement for that national organization—stalled progress. Refusing to give up, our founder began collaborating with USA Football in 2018 to build a custom framework for a local program. 

2019: The Launch

In 2019, Elk River Flag Football officially launched. The community response was immediate and positive: 

• Spring Season: Nearly 80 participants

• Fall Season: Nearly 60 participants

 

Today: Regional Impact & Growth

What started as a strictly local initiative has evolved into a premier regional sports organization. Our enrollment has surged to approximately 500 kids in the spring and 350 kids in the fall. 

While we began with families primarily from Elk River, our reach now spans across central Minnesota, welcoming athletes from:

• Elk River & Otsego 

• Zimmerman & Rogers 

• St. Francis, St. Michael, & Albertville

• Big Lake, Ramsey, & Nowthen 

• Mora, Delano, and beyond. 

 Key Takeaways 

 • Founded: 2019 

 • Growth: From 140 annual participants to 850+ 

 • Affiliation: Developed in partnership with NFL Flag