6 on 6 - Tackle Format

The goal of our U11 program is to provide a safe, positive and educational environment for players to learn the fundamentals of football.  The skill of tackling is broken down step by step following safe tackling guidelines so that players learn proper technique.  Players are introduced to all positions in practice and scrimmage situations. The goal of the Atom program is 100% Developmental. 

U11 players enjoy skills as an introduction to the game with lots of developmental opportunity in both practice and game formats.  Games are introduced in late August / early September and are played against other Atom teams in the CDMFA (Capital District Minor Football Association) region. 

Practices begin May 14 - 21 Wednesdays, following that it will occur on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 PM to 8 PM. The season starts with non-contact training, progresses to safe contact with equipment, and transitions to full contact. Games take place on weekends, with a break for the month of July. 

9 on 9 - Tackle Format

The goal of the U13 program is to introduce players to the strategy, and teamwork involved in 9 on 9  football.  Practice continues to focus on skills, safe tackling, technique and fitness. Throughout the season more emphasis is placed on learning the team Playbook (both Offensive Plays and Defensive Plays).  There is a 50/50 focus on player development vs. competitiveness at the U13 level.

U13 players experience a much faster game with more “thinking” required by players on the field, and practice is designed to provide players with the ability to make these decisions on the field.   Special Teams are introduced at the Peewee level.  Coaches will often adjust positions and play time based on such factors to maintain player safety at all times.  

Spring practices take place from May 27 to October, practices run Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 6 PM to 8 PM. The season starts with non-contact training, progresses to safe contact with equipment, and transitions to full contact. Games occur on weekends, potentially including long weekends. There is no programming in July, and playoffs may extend into mid-November. 

Must NOT be in grade 10 high school in the Fall 2024-2025 school year*

12 on 12 - Tackle Format

The goal of our U16 program is to provide a safe, fun and team environment where our players can further their skills, game knowledge and fitness levels.  Less time is spent on the fundamentals of the game and more is spent on the Playbook, reading the field and special teams.   There is a 90% focus on being competitive at this level.

All U16 players are provided equal training and developmental opportunity at practice.  Game time is predicated on skill level, competitor, effort and attitude.  The goal of our field staff is player safety at all times.  If we believe that there is a chance a player could be injured - they will NOT play.  

Spring practices run from May 27 to October, practices are held Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 6 PM to 8 PM. The season starts with non-contact training, progresses to safe contact with equipment, and transitions to full contact. There is a break for the month of July, and playoffs start in late October or early November, potentially extending into the third week of November.  There is NO football at any of our levels in July.  

Playoffs for U16 players begin at the end of October / start of November.  Playoffs are played in a single elimination format.  Playoffs can run as late as the 3rd week in November depending on Tiering and performance.