Recently seven youth football teams competed in the Inaugural Gridiron Small Town Rookie Tackle Classic in Mogadore, OH. The morning was a showcase event for the Suburban League Conference as it culminated the first year adopting USA Football's Rookie Tackle. Two games were played simultaneously as the Rookie Tackle field is a small-sided game to maximize participation, player skill development, and enjoyment at younger levels. Due to the adoption of USA Football's Rookie Tackle, at least one of the teams have seen an increase in athlete participation.
Seven teams involved in the showcase represented seven different communities: Cuyahoga Falls, Stow, Copley, Mogadore, Kenmore, and Highland
Rookie Tackle serves as a bridge game between flag football and 11-player tackle. It is also a part of USA Football's adoption of the United States Olympic Committee's American Development Model (ADM).
"We are always seeking new ways to strengthen our support of youth and high school football in our state, and the Rookie Tackle program provides a unique opportunity by creating an atmosphere that is structured to benefit early skill development, and most importantly, allow kids to learn and love football. The Browns are proud to partner with USA Football for this innovative program and to help host a pilot league in Northeast Ohio this fall."
Jenner Tekancic, Vice President of Community Relations, Cleveland Browns
