MIDDLE SCHOOL FOOTBALL

Grizzly Football proudly supports our local middle school football programs. Many of these teams are led by current or former Grizzly coaches who continue to build strong football foundations in our community.

Grizzly Football offers a more inclusive experience with consistent reps, more game time, and a player-first focus that helps young athletes build skills and confidence. All Grizzly home games are played on turf at the Grizzly Sports Complex, with most away games held at high school stadiums throughout the region.

However, middle school football teams typically roster only 30–40 players, despite 80+ athletes trying out each season. Due to the timing of tryouts and final cuts, we are unable to accommodate those who don’t make the team after the Grizzly season has already begun.

Because of this, we strongly recommend that:

All 6th graders should play Grizzly Football. While technically eligible for middle school teams, very few make the roster, and those who do often see little to no playing time.
Most 7th graders who make the middle school team have prior experience. Because of this, we recommend 7th graders also register for Grizzly Football to guarantee a spot and ensure continued development and meaningful playing time throughout the season.

Most middle school–aged athletes fall between the ages of 11 and 14. Based on age and weight, players are typically placed into one of the following Grizzly Football divisions:

JUNIOR DIVISION

Age 9: Unlimited (minimum 106 lbs; max ball carrier weight 115 lbs)
Age 10: 91 – 115 lbs
Age 11: Up to 100 lbs

JUNIOR VARSITY DIVISION

Age 10: Unlimited (minimum 116 lbs; max ball carrier weight 125 lbs)
Age 11: 101 – 125 lbs
Age 12: Up to 110 lbs

VARSITY DIVISION

Age 11: Unlimited (minimum 126 lbs; max ball carrier weight 140 lbs)
Age 12: 111 – 140 lbs
Age 13: Up to 125 lbs

PREP DIVISION (Must be in Middle School) for the 25/26 school year)

Age 12: Unlimited (minimum 141 lbs; max ball carrier weight 185 lbs)
Age 13: Unlimited (minimum 126 lbs; max ball carrier weight 175 lbs)
Age 14: Unlimited (max ball carrier weight 155 lbs)

MIDDLE SCHOOL FOOTBALL INFORMATION