Charleston Gridiron Hosted Its First Youth Flag Football Event with Nearly 85 Players

October 13, 2024 MOUNT PLEASANT, SC – Charleston Gridiron hosted a Youth Flag Football Exhibition this past Sunday at Lucy Beckham High. Dubbed the “Highway 17 Showdown,” this was the inaugural launch event for Charleston Gridiron which starts youth clinics this month followed by leagues next month at Oceanside Collegiate. 

Nearly 85 players in grades 2-8 registered for the event which pitted local Mount Pleasant teams & players versus two visiting teams from the Gridiron Myrtle Beach league.

The exhibition format included two simultaneous games every 45 minutes for four slots. Teams played 6on6 flag football games in a 15-minutes per half format which kept the pace of play quick and energetic.

The local Mount Pleasant teams were composed of many players and coaches whom Charleston Gridiron Commissioner Victor Cossel had developed relationships with over the last few years as a volunteer flag football coach in Charleston County, SC.

Victor noted, “I am proud and thankful that in just a few weeks, we were able to coordinate a football event with nearly 85 young players across nine teams which is a feat that showcases the power of local word of mouth, local relationships and a strong local desire for an engaged youth athletic culture.”

“The Gridiron Myrtle Beach commissioners, coaches, teams and their parents were incredibly supportive, and I believe their travelling to be here showcased what a mature Gridiron product looks like – organized, competitive, technical, swagged and fun,” said Victor.

He added, “that kind of consistency, cohesion and fun are the goals and culture I want to emulate here in Charleston Gridiron.”

Adding to the gameday experience, players entered the field through a smoke-filled arc, local small businesses provided concessions on site and offered post-game discounts at O’Brion’s – a local pub & grille.

“I am incredibly energized by the Exhibition which would not be possible without the support of many community members including parents, coaches, SCISAA referees and the Charleston County School District CCSD Facilities Staff.  A huge thanks is owed to many!”

Charleston Gridiron’s momentum will continue rolling into its upcoming Sunday’s skills clinics and its winter flag football season. Both programs include player development sessions to raise players football IQ and overall athleticism necessary for all sports.

Charleston Gridiron is operated locally by the Charleston-based youth sports platform Victory Sports Prep.