Athletes & Parents
Support for Athletes and Parents—Wherever the Game Takes You
FOR YOU. FOR THE GAME.
USA Football is passionate about delivering the resources and tools to support millions of young athletes and the parents and guardians who take on the roles of coaches, nurses, psychologists, equipment managers, chauffeurs, chefs, and more—so you can make it the best season yet.
The TEAM USA FOOTBALL® Youth Athlete ID and Adult Athlete ID is the only way to join the National Team Pathway and elite flag football competitions. Getting your Athlete ID unlocks tools and resources that support your flag football journey, as well as eligibility to participate in the National Team Development Program or National Team qualifying events.
USA Football Age Verification elevates the football experience for everyone, providing peace of mind through a fair and safer player experience. USA Football's age verification system is easy to use. Age verification is included in the TEAM USA FOOTBALL® Youth Athlete ID and the Youth Athlete Roster Card.
Explore the variety of resources available for athletes and parents, learn about concussions, responding to injuries, hydration tips, proper equipment fitting, athlete abuse prevention, player safety initiatives, and more. You can also explore leading news stories that highlight USA Football's role in improving health and safety in the game.
USA Football is officially recognized by the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) as the National Governing Body for football. This strengthens USA Football's commitment to providing athletes with a healthy and positive environment by protecting them from abuse in compliance with the USOPC and the U.S. Center for SafeSport.
Whether you're looking to play, register your athlete for a tackle or flag program, or volunteer in your local football community, USA Football's League Finder showcases the organizations, teams, and school programs that prioritize athletes' well-being by following best practices and recommendations that focus on development on and off the field.
USA Football is the only organization that selects, trains, and leads TEAM USA FOOTBALL®—one family of teams representing the U.S. in elite national and international competitions, including the 2028 Summer Olympics. Athletes can showcase their skills at Talent ID Camps, Digital Combines, and other qualifying events to start their path toward a U.S. National Team or Select Team.
Maximize both your athlete’s and your own football experience with resources tailored for parents and guardians. Download USA Football's Guide, game day checklist, questions for coaches, and tips on how to keep your athlete active. You can also explore the latest USA Football blog stories and FAQs from other parents as they navigate the roles of encouragers, healers, mentors, and your athlete’s No. 1 fans.
The Football Development Model is helping to make the game safer by reducing contact in the game and teaching in a way that meets an athlete where they are in their development. This FOOTBALL FOR ALL® approach assists with the development of young athletes and allows them to learn the game and related skills in a progression that best suits them.
Check out USA Football's camps, competitions, and events, including flag football camps for the National Team Development Program and U.S. National Team, competitive competitions, community activities, and more. Athletes, parents, and guardians can also use USA Football's Event Finder to search for other upcoming activities near you.
If you need assistance getting started, our team is here to support you. We can help you access a wide range of resources and tools designed for athletes, parents, and guardians.