WHO ARE WE? WHAT DO WE OFFER?

Wappingers Wildcats offers tackle football to children ages 8 to 12 years old who attend Roy C. Ketcham feeder schools in the Wappingers Central School District. Our program is also open to children in the Spackenkill School District, as well as athletes who are homeschooled and attend private schools. Here at WYFC our staff understands that each athlete develops at his or her own pace. We take great pride in teaching, molding and helping athletes develop at a speed comfortable to them in a space that is safe, exciting and family oriented. Athletes will learn how to take a hit and how to tackle properly. They will have speed, strength and agility training. Win some, lose some, our athletes will also learn the importance of teamwork, sportsmanship and respect on and off the field, while growing in their love for the sport of football.

WHAT IS THE COMMITMENT LIKE FOR TACKLE FOOTBALL?

Our tackle season starts on August 5th and will continue until the weekend of November 2nd. We are very considerate in making sure all of our athletes get proper playing time. However, that requires that athletes show up to practice and games on time with their equipment, ready to practice, play and support their team. Athletes are expected to show up with a positive attitude, ready to learn and ready to work. Our athletes and families are all expected to abide by our code of conduct in efforts to provide everyone a safe, positive and fun experience at our field and all of our events.

WHAT DOES PRACTICE REQUIRE?

Practice will begin on Tuesday, August 5th. Practices are located at the backfield of Wappingers Junior High School. Each team will have a designated practice area. Days and times can vary for each team (final practice schedule TBA by June). During the month of August tackle athletes will practice four times a week. When school starts in September, the practice schedule will change to three times per week. Athletes will practice for the first two weeks working their way up to helmets, pads and full contact practice. The month of August is a very crucial time to get those hours in, learning plays and positions to prepare them for their first game in September. We understand that August is a time for family vacations, but we ask that you communicate in advance with our coaching staff so they can make adjustments to their practice plan. When September starts attendance is absolutely mandatory. Constant absences will not only affect the athlete individually, but it will also affect their team entirely.