Rider Club Tackle Fall Season

Rider Club Football

Ages

RCF welcomes all 5th, 6th and 7th graders to the organization's tackle program.

RCF will organize 1st-4th grade teams for DSM Parks & Rec Flag Football

When

The RCF Season begins the 2nd week of August and runs through the 2nd week in October.

RCF offers a free clinic every Sunday at Roosevelt HS May-July.

Where

Practices are held at Cowles Elementary School and at Roosevelt HS.

Games are played at high schools around the Des Moines metro.

Practices

5th & 6th grade practices will be held from 5:30-7:30 Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays

7th grade practice will be held 5:30-7:30 Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturday mornings.

Games

Teams will play 6 games in the fall. These games will primarily be on Sunday afternoons with games possibly held on Saturday evenings.

Equipment

In August, upon registration, RCF athlete will receive a helmet, mouth guard, practice/game jersey, shoulder pads and pants. Each athlete will be responsible for returning their equipment to the organization at the end of the season.

RCF has a limited amount of cleats for those athletes that do not have their own.

Cost

RCF is a nonprofit that will never turn an athlete away for financial reasons.

RCF charges a $100/athlete registration fee that covers all the equipment, facility rental, insurance and league expenses.

If you have the ability and want to support our athletes, please consider a donation to the club.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is tackle football safe for kids?

While tackle football is physically demanding, RCF emphasizes safety and proper technique to minimize the risk of injury. Coaches are trained in concussion awareness and first aid. Our league enforces safety rules to protect our players.

2. What is the difference between flag football and tackle football?

Flag football is a non-contact version of the game where players pull a flag from the ball carrier's waist instead of tackling them. Tackle football involves physical contact and requires players to tackle the ball carrier to stop the play.

3. How are teams formed?

League rules cap teams at 30 athletes and requires each athlete to be on the field for at least 15 plays/game.
If there are more than 30 athletes per grade registered we will need to establish a waitlist until we have enough volunteer coaches to host a second team within that age group.

4. What are the rules ?

RCF plays in the Mid Iowa Youth Football League. https://www.midiowayouthfootball.com/

5. What should my child bring to practice and games?

Players should bring their full set of gear, water, and appropriate clothing (e.g., athletic wear, warm-ups). Coaches expect their players to be "suited up" and ready as soon as practice starts.

6. Do coaches have experience with youth players?

Coaches are all volunteers who may have varying levels of experience. Each coach must complete training in safety, sportsmanship, and age-appropriate coaching techniques.

7. What should I do if my child gets injured?

If your child gets injured, report it to the coach immediately. Most leagues have protocols for assessing and treating injuries, including concussion assessments. If needed, seek medical attention and follow any return-to-play guidelines set by the league.

8. How can I encourage my child in football without pushing them too hard?

Encourage your child by focusing on fun, learning, and skill development. Make sure they enjoy the game and feel supported, regardless of performance. Allow them to communicate their interests and preferences when it comes to playing.

2025

RCF Tackle Football is for 5th, 6th & 7th Grade Students at Roosevelt H.S. feeder schools

Mid-August through Mid-October

Season Pricing- $100/athlete (scholarships available).