Flag Football · Ages 6–8
A fun, no-contact first step into football that builds speed, coordination, and a love of the game.
Chicago Dire Wolves · Youth Football · Ages 6–13
Welcome to the Wolves Den.
A not-for-profit youth football program in Chicago building tough, confident, and kind young athletes — on the field and off it.
Every player matters. Your support keeps fees low, gear safe, and every kid in Chicago who wants to play on the field.
About
More than a team — a family.
Chicago Dire Wolves Youth Football is a not-for-profit program for boys and girls ages 6–13. We give young athletes a safe, positive place to learn the game, grow their confidence, and be part of something bigger than themselves.
Our volunteer coaches teach fundamentals, sportsmanship, and respect — with a strong focus on safety, proper technique, and good grades in the classroom.
From the first practice to the final whistle, we want every family to feel welcome in the Wolves Den.
- Safety First
- Character & Discipline
- Teamwork
- Proud of Chicago
Programs
A place on the field for every age.
Our programs are grouped by age so every player learns at the right pace — from first-time flag players to seasoned tackle athletes.
Junior Tackle · Ages 9–10
Safe-tackling fundamentals, real positions, and game-day experience with full protective gear.
Senior Tackle · Ages 11–13
Advanced skills, team strategy, and leadership for players getting ready for the next level.
Skills & Conditioning
Speed, agility, and strength work designed for growing bodies and taught by trained coaches.
Grades & Mentorship
Student first, athlete second. We check in on grades and support players off the field too.
Family & Community
Team cookouts, community service days, and events that bring families and neighbors together.
Get Involved
Join the Pack
Parents, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters — there is a spot on the team for everyone.
Register a Player
Sign-up, registration forms, and payments in one simple online step.
Coach or Volunteer
Help on the sideline, at the snack stand, or with team events.
Become a Sponsor
Put your business behind Chicago kids and get recognized all season.
Make a Donation
Every dollar goes to gear, fields, travel, and player scholarships.
What Every Season Includes
- Certified, background-checked coaches
- Practice jersey and game uniform
- Safety-tested helmets and pads
- Weekly practices and game days
- Grade checks and mentorship
- Team photos and end-of-season awards
- Family events and cookouts
- Need-based fee scholarships
- Certified, background-checked coaches
- Practice jersey and game uniform
- Safety-tested helmets and pads
- Weekly practices and game days
- Grade checks and mentorship
- Team photos and end-of-season awards
- Family events and cookouts
- Need-based fee scholarships
Schedule & Events
Upcoming dates for the pack.
Mark your calendar. Exact dates and times will be posted here as the season schedule is finalized.
Registration Opens
Date to be announced · Online sign-up for all age groups.
Equipment Pickup
Date to be announced · Helmets, pads, and uniforms fitted for every player.
First Practice
Date to be announced · Weeknight practices at our home field in Chicago.
Season Opener
Date to be announced · Kickoff game day — bring the whole family!
Community Fundraiser
Date to be announced · Help raise money for gear and scholarships.
End-of-Season Banquet
Date to be announced · Awards, trophies, and celebrating our players.
Our Mission
Building young leaders through football.
Our mission is to give every child ages 6–13 a safe, affordable place to play football — and to use the game to teach confidence, character, and community.
Safety
Proper equipment, certified coaches, and safe-tackling technique come before anything else.
Education
We encourage strong grades and good choices — the classroom matters as much as the field.
Teamwork
Players learn to trust each other, lift each other up, and win or lose together.
Discipline
Showing up, working hard, and respecting coaches, teammates, and opponents.
Community
Keeping Chicago kids active, connected, and surrounded by positive role models.
Access
As a not-for-profit, we work to keep costs low so no child misses out because of money.
Support the Pack
Your gift keeps kids on the field.
We are a not-for-profit team run by volunteers. Donations and sponsorships go straight to the players — here is exactly where your money goes.
Gear & Safety
Helmets, pads, and uniforms that meet safety standards for every player.
Player Scholarships
Covering fees so no child is turned away because of cost.
Fields & Travel
Field rentals, game-day travel, and tournament fees.
Events & Awards
Banquets, trophies, and celebrations that make the season unforgettable.
Sponsors and supporters make our season possible. Make a one-time gift, or contact us about becoming a season sponsor.
Testimonials
What our families are saying
Sample quotes for now — these will be swapped for real words from our families.
“My son found his confidence with the Dire Wolves. The coaches truly care about the kids.”
Team Parent
“Safe, organized, and so much fun. Our whole family looks forward to game day.”
Flag Football Parent
“They push the kids to do well in school too — that's what sold us.”
Tackle Parent
“Sponsoring this team was an easy decision. You can see the impact on the kids.”
Local Sponsor
“Volunteering here feels like being part of a big family.”
Team Volunteer
“My daughter loves being part of the pack. She can't wait for next season.”
Team Parent
FAQ
Have questions? We have answers.
Quick answers for parents, players, and supporters.
We welcome boys and girls ages 6–13. Players are grouped by age so everyone plays with kids at their level.
Not at all. Many of our players are brand new to football — our coaches teach everything from the basics up.
Season fees will be posted when registration opens. As a not-for-profit, we keep costs as low as possible and offer help for families who need it.
Helmets, shoulder pads, and uniforms are provided for tackle players. Players bring their own cleats, mouthguard, and water bottle.
Our home base is 480 W 26th St, Chicago, IL 60616. Practice times and game locations will be shared in the schedule.
Click any Register button on this site. Online sign-up, forms, and payment will open there when registration is live.
We are a not-for-profit youth program. Contact us for details and receipts for your donation or sponsorship.
We'd love to have you! Email us or use the contact form and we'll share sponsorship options.
Season sign-ups
Ready to join the pack?
Register your player today, or help another child get on the field with a donation.
Contact
Get in touch with the Dire Wolves.
Questions about registration, schedules, volunteering, or sponsorship? Send us a message — we would love to hear from you.
Ages
Boys & girls 6–13
Response
Within 1–2 days
Status
Not-for-profit
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