You look into the hard eyes of the defender right across from you as you feel your heart beat against your chest. Both of you stare unflinching, waiting for the signal to move. "Set, Hut!" is screamed from behind you, and without a second thought you dash diagonally to your right, the defender right on your heels. Anticipating, this, you feint to go left, giving yourself a millisecond of reprieve and widening the gap between yourself and the defender. It may seem short, but that valuable moment has given you a yard, and a yard is all you need. You see the space and attack it, and just like in a casual backyard, your quarterback pings a perfect ball straight into your onrushing body without you needing to break stride. The end zone is right there, more inviting than a freshly baked ham on Thanksgiving day. You can taste the glory, the applause, and the roar of friends and family, when all of a sudden you are staring at the sky, breathless and confused. Coming to, you see that same defender you dusted staring down at you and laughing, but confusion is quickly replaced by anger. This is flag football, not tackle. Arguments quickly ensue between your teammates and the other team, and you look hopelessly around for someone to take control of the game.
Sports can very easily become heated affairs, especially when the players are playing hard. Outbursts are not uncommon from players, coaches, or even fans, but that is the nature of a competitive outing. The issue comes from how to control the aftermath. Rising tempers from players can quickly end in injury, even in sports like flag football which are supposed to be minimal contact. Referees and other officials help control the game, allowing players to play as hard as they can without endangering opponents or themselves. They act as guardians, making sure the game still flows, but stopping it when an illegal action like blocking occurs. Good officials stem the flow of illegal and infuriating actions without imposing themselves onto the game. They understand that while flag football is minimal contact, it is still a contact sport and some physicality is not only necessary but desired. Good officials do their best to let the game be played the way it was meant to whilst doing their best to protect the players and keep competition high.
Colorado Springs, Colorado is seeking bids from qualified vendors to provide flag football officials services for select areas throughout the City. If interested in this opportunity, click on the link to learn more. The bid closes January 21, 2026 at 4:30 PM MST.