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 A non-contact version of American football where instead of tackling, players pull a flag attached to the ball carrier’s belt in the west.  “Flag football is a way to experience the excitement of the game – without contact. It’s a fun and fast-paced Game Type that can be played at any age and on various field sizes.”  

In the Football Development Model, according to USA Football

Flag is the heart of Non-Contact, and it’s a fun and fast-paced Game Type that can be played at any age on various field sizes. … In the Football Development Model, Non-Contact Flag is the first step in the Game Type progression, introducing football skills that are experienced in contact versions of the game and other sports 

• Team size: Usually 5, 7, or 9 players per side.
• Field size: Smaller (60–80 yards long, 20–30 yards wide).
• Equipment: Flags, belts, mouth guards, no pads or helmets needed.
• Objective: Same as tackle football — score by advancing the ball.
• Highlights: Safer, faster, inclusive (played by both genders), and great for beginners or youth development.

Limited-contact game type that introduces the fundamentals of tackling in a controlled, safe, and progression-based format.” 

 TackleBar is designed to teach safe tackling technique without taking players to the ground. It combines the structure of tackle football with the safety of flag football.

 Purpose:

• Introduce younger or less experienced players to tackle football safely.
• Build tackling fundamentals and game understanding gradually. 

Typical Age  Rules & Contact Level:

• Limited contact: tackling is allowed, but hits are restricted to shoulder-to-shoulder or wrap-up form.
• No full-speed collisions; no pile-ups.
• Smaller field size (often 60–80 yards long) 
• Fewer players per side (7v7 or 8v8) to simplify gameplay and reduce collisions 

Focus:

• Learning proper tackling technique 
• Developing basic football skills: passing, catching, running routes.
• Encouraging safety, confidence, and fun.

 Purpose:

• Prepare older or more experienced youth players for full-contact tackle football.
• Emphasize realistic gameplay while keeping some contact restrictions.

Typical Age / Grade:

• Ages 11–14 (or U12–U14), depending on the league. 

Rules & Contact Level:

• Moderate contact: tackles are closer to full tackle, but still restricted for safety.
• Full 11-player formations are possible.
• Standard field size (80–100 yards) may be used.
• Offensive/defensive schemes resemble standard tackle football, including line play and special teams.

Focus:

• Advanced technique: proper tackling, blocking, pursuit angles.
• Team strategy: introducing more complex playbooks and game management.
• Transition to full tackle: senior limited tackle is the final developmental step before unrestricted tackle football

• Rookie Limited Tackle = “first step” in limited-contact tackle football for younger or new players. 
• Senior Limited Tackle = “final step” in limited-contact before moving to full-contact tackle football.

 USA Football divides tackle football into progressive game types, allowing players to develop safely by adjusting the number of players, field size, and contact intensity.

This model ensures that athletes learn fundamentals first, then gradually move to the full 11-player game

 Purpose: Introduction to tackle football for young players.
Age Range: Typically ages 8–10 (U10).

Features:

• 7v7 or 8v8 players (smaller rosters).
• Reduced field size (40×70 yards) 
• Coaches allowed on field to assist. 
• Simplified playbooks — fewer formations and special teams. 
• Focuses on proper tackling, blocking, and game understanding. 

Goal: Develop safe tackling and core football skills before full 11-player play.

 Purpose: Transitional format for players ready for structured tackle football but still within controlled contact rules.
Age Range: Ages 10–12 or intermediate levels.

Features:

• 9v9 or 10v10 play formats. 
• Field slightly smaller than regulation. 
• Full pads and helmets required. 
• Moderate contact — focus on wrap-up tackling, not collisions. 
• Introduces special teams and full positional play. 

Goal: Build confidence and technique before entering full-contact tackle football.

 Purpose: Standard, full-field version of American football used in high school, college, and professional leagues.
Age Range: Typically ages 13+ (high school, adult, pro).

Features:

• 11v11 on a full-size field (100×53⅓ yards). 
• Complete rules: offense, defense, and special teams. 
• Full-contact tackling and blocking within safety rules. 
• Complex playbooks and specialized positions (QB, RB, WR, OL, DL, LB, DB). 

Goal: Competitive, team-oriented football showcasing advanced athletic and tactical ability.

 Purpose: For schools, new programs, or international clubs (like Uganda’s Nakawa Buccaneers) that want to teach tackle football safely without full collisions.

Features:

• Can use reduced field size or player count (e.g., 7v7, 9v9). 
• Contact limited to controlled tackling drills or in-game “wrap and release.” 
• Emphasizes fundamentals and game knowledge over heavy physical play. 

Goal: Make tackle football accessible, safe, and educational in developing programs.