ECIL Flag Football

Volunteering as a youth flag football coach is a chance to make a real impact by teaching teamwork, building confidence, and creating unforgettable memories for kids, all while having fun on the field. Coaches play a vital role in shaping not just better athletes, but better teammates and leaders for the future.

Rookies Division (1st-3rd Grade)

The Rookies Division serves as the foundation of ECIL Flag Football and is designed specifically for athletes who are new to the game or still developing their fundamental skills. This division focuses on teaching the basics of football in a fun, supportive, and age-appropriate environment where every player has the opportunity to learn, grow, and build confidence.

Players are introduced to essential skills such as passing, receiving, ball handling, route running, and defensive positioning while learning the importance of teamwork, sportsmanship, and effort. Our coaches prioritize player development over competition, helping athletes establish a strong understanding of the game that will prepare them for future success in higher divisions.

The goal of the Rookies Division is simple: create a positive first football experience that encourages a lifelong love of the game while helping every player develop both on and off the field.

Team 1

Head Coach: Drew Sappenfield

Assistant Coach: Max Gensler

Team 2

Head Coach: Brad Beccue

Assistant Coach: Austin Martin

Team 3

Head Coach: Karson Jeffers

Assistant Coach: Cory Roberts

Juniors Division (4th-6th Grade)

The Juniors Division is ECIL Flag Football's largest and most competitive division, featuring five teams representing coaches from across our community. Among those teams is a squad led by current University of Illinois football players, giving athletes a unique opportunity to learn from collegiate student-athletes while competing alongside and against their peers.

With a balance of skill development, teamwork, and friendly competition, the Juniors Division is designed to help players continue growing their football knowledge and abilities in a positive environment. The variety of coaching styles and team experiences creates an exciting season full of learning opportunities and great competition for all athletes involved.

Head Coach: Chris Williams

Assistant Coach: Max Gensler

Head Coach: Jake Oltean

Assistant Coach: Brayden VonLanken

Head Coach: Austin Martin

Assistant Coach: Brett Englehardt

Head Coach: Hoyt Wages

Assistant Coach: Dave Vukelich

Juniors Illini Coaches

Kaden Feagin

TJ McMillen

Mac Resetich

Juice Clarke

Brandon Henderson

Seniors Division (7th-9th Grade)

Our Seniors Division offers a unique experience for athletes by partnering with current University of Illinois football players as coaches and mentors. Players in this division have the opportunity to learn the game from high-level collegiate athletes who bring energy, leadership, and a passion for developing young players.

The focus of the Seniors Division is skill development, teamwork, sportsmanship, and creating a fun, competitive environment where athletes can continue to grow their understanding of the game. Throughout the season, players will benefit from instruction and encouragement from some of the best football talent in the country while building confidence and making lasting memories on the field.