FOOTBALL FUNDAMENTALS

Thompson Falls Elementary School has begun offering flag football as an extracurricular after-school activity again. The program started about five years ago, and according to coach Mike Thilmony, was made to help students learn about the game of football at a young age. Thilmony explained that they usually have about a dozen kids show up, and for an hour they are taught the many aspects of football.

Students in fourth through sixth grade can show up when they want and learn basic skills of the game. According to Thilmony, they have the opportunity to practice techniques before they are able to join junior high football. Practice starts at 6 p.m. and begins with a throwing exercise, where they receive coaching on the proper technique. Thilmony explained that they practice running plays and passing. Students get about a half hour of this type of training and will spend the last 30 minutes scrimmaging.

The after-school program sees a few students who are nervous about things like how to throw a ball, and Thilmony says he tells them, "That's alright, that's what we are here to do." The flag football program is co-ed. The participants also got to play during halftime at the Thompson Falls football game against Superior Friday, Sept. 17. Thilmony is assisted by coaches Sean Kelly, Jay Deal and Jake Helvey. Thilmony works at First Security Bank in Thompson Falls and volunteers his time to coach.

Parents interested in having their kids participate in the after-school flag football program can contact elementary principal Len Dorscher at (406) 827-3592.