(Players born 2015, 2014, 2013)

6 on 6 - Tackle Format

The goal of our Atom 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.  The goal of the Atom program is 100% Developmental.  Winning is a bonus, but it is NOT our main priority.

Atoms enjoy skills fun, an introduction to the game and 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. 

There is NO football at any of our levels in July - Happy Holidays!

During the regular season, August to October, Atoms will practice from 6pm to 8pm Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Games are always held on the weekend on either Saturday or Sunday.  

(Players born 2012, 2011)

9 on 9 - Tackle Format

The Peewee program is designed to introduce players to the strategy, and teamwork involved in 12 on 12 Canadian football.  Practice continues to focus on skills, safe tackling, technique and fitness.  As the season unfolds, more emphasis is placed on learning the team Playbook (both Offensive Plays and Defensive Plays) and a great deal of vocabulary is introduced.  There is a 50/50 focus on player development vs. competitiveness at the Peewee level.

Peewees 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.  Players at the peewee level can range from barely 5 feet tall and 100lbs (soaking wet) to well over 6 feet and 250+ pounds.  Coaches will often adjust positions and play time based on such factors to maintain player safety at all times.  If there is a concern about your player’s field time, please see the Coaches.

There is NO football at any of our levels in July - Happy Holidays!

During the regular season, August to October, Peewees will practice from 6pm to 8pm Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.   Games are always held on the weekend on either Saturday or Sunday, and MAY include long weekends.  Play-offs can run as late as mid November.

(Players born 2010, 2009, 2008*)  Age 15 but are NOT starting high school in the Fall 2023-2024 school year*

12 on 12 - Tackle Format

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

Our Bantam program is the culmination of our Atom and Peewee programs, but NEW players are always welcome!  As there is less time spent on the fundamentals at this level, players are encouraged to join the Raiders Spring Training, to participate in other football training events (we can point you in the right direction) and to speak to the Coaches as additional training can be arranged - PLEASE keep in mind that our Coaches are volunteers.

All Bantam 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, and of the Raiders Football Club is player safety at all times.  If we believe that there is a chance a player could be injured - they will NOT play.  If you are concerned about play time, you are invited to speak to the Coaches.  If you are unhappy with the results, you are welcome to escalate your concerns.

There is NO football at any of our levels in July - Happy Holidays!

During the regular season, August to October, Bantams will practice from 6pm to 8pm Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.   Games are always held on the weekend on either Saturday or Sunday, and they are typically back to back of the Peewee level games.  Note that Bantams often play on long weekends.  Players are expected to arrive early for games - be sure that you are aware of how early YOUR Coach wants you.

Play-offs for Bantams begin at the end of October / start of November.  Play-offs are played in a single elimination format so you play until you lose.  Play-offs can run as late as the 3rd week in November depending on Tiering and performance.