PYFFL Unified
Pembroke Youth Flag Football League is proud to announce the launch of Unified Flag Football for 2025. The program brings together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities to compete and grow as teammates. The creation of unified sports was inspired by a simple principle: training together and playing together is a quick path to friendship and understanding.
In partnership with Special Olympics, PYFFL Unified will foster teamwork, sportsmanship, and community while aligning with the national Unified Sports model supported by Special Olympics and NFLFlag.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
Teams will consist of athletes (individuals with intellectual disabilities) and unified partners (individuals without intellectual disabilities). Teams are designed to provide meaningful involvement for all participants, ensuring a balanced and competitive experience.
For the 2025 season, PYFFL is running two Unified Divisions, ages 10-12 & ages 13-15. Players of all skills and abilities are welcome to register. Players already participating in another PYFFL division are encouraged to register and compete on a unified team as well.
Participants should demonstrate a genuine desire to participate and an interest in football. Additionally, they must be able to independently follow one- to two-step familiar directions. It is also essential that individuals are able to manage their emotions and behaviors with minimal intervention.
PYFFL is open to players from the towns of Pembroke, Hanover, Hanson, Whitman, Halifax, Plympton, Kingston, Duxbury, Marshfield, & Norwell.
Ages
In our inagural season, PYFFL Unified will be open to two age groups: 10-12 & 13-15. Divisions are based on age as of September 1st, 2025.
GAMES
Each team will play 4 regular season games and at least one playoff game.
When
PYFFL Unified begins on Sunday, September 14th with a Meet & Greet / Practice (Skills).
Regular season games will follow on Sunday afternoons: 9/21, 9/28, 10/5 & 10/19.
The first round of the playoffs will be on Friday night 10/24.
The Super Bowl for each division will be on Sunday 10/26.
WHERE
All games take place at The Mattakeesett Street Field Complex.
455 Mattakeesett Street
Pembroke, MA 02359
Uniforms
A reversible NFL Flag team jersey, PYFFL branded mesh shorts, a mouthpiece and a flag belt are included in tuition.
Cost
Tuition cost is $115.
A discount is offered to players already participating in another PYFFL division in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Unified Flag Football?
Unified Flag Football is an inclusive sport that brings together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team. It promotes teamwork, sportsmanship, and social inclusion while providing an opportunity for all players to develop their skills and compete in a fun, supportive environment.
Who can participate in Unified Flag Football?
Unified Flag Football teams consist of athletes (individuals with intellectual disabilities) and Unified partners (individuals without intellectual disabilities). Teams are designed to provide meaningful involvement for all participants, ensuring a balanced and competitive experience. For the 2025 season, PYFFL is running two Unified Divisions, ages 10-12 & ages 13-15. Players of all skills and abilities are welcome to register.
How is Unified Flag Football played?
The game follows traditional flag football rules with adaptations to ensure inclusivity. Teams will be composed of six athletes and four partners. Unified Divisions will follow the same rules as other PYFFL divisions.
What are the benefits of Unified Flag Football?
- Promotes inclusion and friendships between people of all abilities
- Encourages teamwork and communication
- Develops athletic skills in a supportive environment
- Provides opportunities for leadership and personal growth
- Fosters respect and understanding within the community
Is Unified Flag Football competitive?
Yes, while the focus is on inclusion and fun, Unified Flag Football includes competitive elements and will include playoffs culminating in a Superbowl.
How does Unified Flag Football promote inclusion?
The sport breaks down barriers by bringing together athletes of all abilities in a collaborative team environment.
Do I need to buy my child any equipment in addition to what is provided by PYFFL?
Players are encouraged to participate with or without specialized equipment—everything is optional based on personal preference and comfort. While cleats are recommended for better traction on the field, they are not required. Football gloves can be useful for improved grip, particularly when catching or handling the ball, but they remain completely optional.
I'd love to volunteer as I realize that PYFFL is 100% volunteer driven!
Fantastic! We're always looking for help, not just in coaching but also in other areas that keep the league running smoothly. We could use support with field painting, reaching out to sponsors, managing equipment/uniforms, and more. Let us know how you'd like to get involved!
What if I have more questions not covered in the FAQs?
Please reach out to PYFFL Vice President and Director of PYFFL Unified, Christina Ripley: RipleyPYFFL@Gmail.com
2025
PYFFL Unified Flag Football teams consist of athletes (individuals with intellectual disabilities) and partners (individuals without intellectual disabilities). Teams are designed to provide meaningful involvement for all participants, ensuring a balanced and competitive experience.
For the 2025 season, PYFFL will have two Unified Divisions, ages 10-12 & ages 13-15. Players of all skills and abilities are welcome to register.
Register