Hidden Valley flag football team completes successful season

(HIDDEN VALLEY, Ind.) – A co-ed flag football league in Hidden Valley has completed their successful inaugural season. 

The Hidden Valley Flag Football League brought together approximately 130 boys and girls between the ages of 6 and 12. 

Cody Janszen and Michael Welce founded the league with the mission of guaranteed playing time for every child, while also giving girls more opportunities to play football. 

“With girls flag football becoming sanctioned in more states every year and the sport making its Olympic debut in 2028, we felt this was the right time to give local kids another opportunity to compete,” Janszen said. 

The league was also designed to not be time-consuming and be easy to watch for families.

The season was intentionally short, with doubleheaders that allowed kids to get plenty of playing time while keeping the schedule manageable for parents. 

The fields were also designed so a family can stand in one area and be able to watch three games happening at once. 

“There is music playing, a fun field layout, concessions, Kona Ice, ice cream trucks, and a true event atmosphere that gives families something to look forward to every week,” Janszen said.

Janszen also added that one Hidden Valley resident offered to pay for registration in case a family couldn’t afford it. That request led to several kids being able to play who otherwise wouldn't have been able to. 

This past weekend marked the end of the first season and there was a lot to celebrate for all involved. 

"Probably the biggest lesson we learned is that our area is ready for another youth sport that welcomes everyone, whether they're playing for the first time or have experience already,” he said. 

The season also confirmed a belief that organizers had from the beginning: Girls are going to help transform this sport. 

“Their enthusiasm, competitiveness, and participation have been incredible, and we believe girls flag football is only getting started in our region,” he added. 

Organizers are also crediting those who maintained the grounds and made it possible to play at the sports complex. 

They also thanked the coaches and referees who made the league a positive experience for all the players and parents. 

“Our volunteer coaches poured countless hours into helping every child grow. And our referees weren't just officials; they taught the kids, encouraged them, joked with parents and coaches, and helped create an atmosphere that made every game fun,” Janszen said.

You can follow the Hidden Valley Flag Football League by clicking here.