BENEFITS OF FLEX.

Designed by NFL players to replicate their practice regimen, Flex focuses on technique and an understanding of the game in a limited-contact environment where blocking is allowed.

Played 7-on-7 (ages 5/6) or 9-on-9 (ages 7/8), Flex football is similar to flag football in that tackling is prohibited, allowing younger players to learn the concepts, skills, fundamentals, and positions in a safe and enjoyable atmosphere. Flex is a great precursor to tackle as it focuses on the running/passing game, blocking and pass rush.

With nearly 50 Flex players in 2024, the ASL Bengals were one of the few programs in Central Mass to field two teams per division (6U & 8U).

Let’s keep the momentum going in 2025!

“Flex Football is the most complete, non-tackle option available.” - Gridiron Football

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  • Flex football is similar to flag football in that tackling is prohibited, allowing younger players to learn the concepts, skills, fundamentals, and positions in a safe and enjoyable atmosphere. Flex is a great progression from flag football to tackle since it focuses more on the running and passing game, as well as blocking and pass rush.

  • The Flex program includes 2 teams, a team for ages 5-6 (6U) and a team for ages 7-8 (8U).

    6U plays 7 on 7 and 8U plays 9 on 9 on a 40 yard field.

    Our Flex teams compete against other towns in Central Mass who offer the same program.

  • Flex players wear light shoulder pads, soft-shelled helmets, flags and a game jersey, all of which are provided by the Bengals.

    Players must supply their own mouth guard, black shirt/shorts, water bottle and footwear (cleats recommended).

    • Pre-Season Jamboree Game

    • 8 Regular Season Games

    • Mighty Might Bowl

    • Equipment: Helmet, Shoulder Pads, Jersey, Flags

  • Fundraising: Required to sell 10 raffle tickets ($10 each) by September 15th

    Volunteering: Volunteer as needed throughout the season (Ex: Chains, Announcing, Events)

    Equipment: In-season care & cleaning, prompt return of equipment post season

    Paperwork: Player Packet, original birth certificate (if new to program), and 2024 physical are required to receive equipment

  • Practices are held 90 minutes, twice per week, days are determined by the coach and will be announced prior to the start of the season.

    Practices are held at the Lunenburg High School fields or Taylor Field in Shirley.

    Restrooms are available at all practice fields.

  • The season runs from late July through October.

    Games are ~90 minutes. 4 games are home and will be played at either the Lunenburg or Ayer-Shirley High Schools, subject to field availability.

    Away games are based on the CMYAF game schedule and will be played in Central Massachusetts.

    Note: Game locations subject to field availability. All locations will be confirmed when the schedule is released in August.

    All players must be at games 30 minutes prior to the start for warm-ups.

    Concessions and restrooms are generally available at each field.

  • The Bengals program will use a combination of email and Facebook to communicate with parents.

    Team Moms will communicate the schedule for your team, any changes and engage parents as needed to solicit for volunteers and share updates.

    Please make sure your email address is correct in Sports Engine.

    Join the Bengals Facebook Group and join your teams Facebook Group, if applicable.