Albany County's first annual 2024 NFL Flag Football Clinic

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -Anyone ages eight to thirteen, new or familiar with flag football, was welcome to sign up for Albany County's first annual 2024 NFL Flag Football Clinic. Organizers hope to inspire local youth to participate in sports to start healthy habits and have fun doing so.

"I grew up playing football my whole life. Football saved my life. It just kept me out of the streets and kept me busy. I want to give that back to the kids and help them pursue their dreams and be the best people they can be," said Isiah Oliver of the Nonhuman Club.

Albany County Parks and Recreation partnered with local coaches to build lasting connections in the community. The 100 kids who played flag football at the Russell Sage Armory Turf did so free of charge.

"You’re only healthy if you have mental health, social health, physical health, and financial health. These help all of those," stated Council to County Executive Dan McCoy, Jeff Jamison.

Players were grouped by their age and an NFL team to practice drills before getting to score a few touchdowns. Some young players told NEWS10's Anthony Krolikowski they aspire to one day be in the Super Bowl. 

Families on the sidelines said they are happy to see their children take a break from electronics and get out of the house. "As a grandparent, I also assist with coaching because it keeps me young as well," explained Michelle Washington.

"I think everybody should be doing sports," added Jeremiah as he cheered on his cousin.