Lodi has three youth football programs, and choosing between them can be confusing. They serve different ages, run in different seasons, and offer very different experiences. Here's an honest breakdown.
The Quick Answer
- Want no-contact flag football this spring? → Blue Chip (ages 3-17, starts April)
- Want flag football with Nike gear in winter? → Next Level at Lodi High
- Want tackle football and/or cheerleading? → Jr Flames (fall, only tackle option)
- Child is 3-5? → Both Blue Chip (Rookie) and Jr Flames (flag/cheer) accept young kids
Blue Chip Flag Football
No-contact flag football at Tokay High School. Ages 3-17 with co-ed and all-girls GEMS divisions. Spring 2026: Sundays, April 12 - May 31. Cost $139-$180. Includes reversible jersey and flag belt. 7-9 total games (6 regular season + 1-3 playoffs). Season champs invited to Tournament of Champions at Pasadena High School. Payment plans available. Mandatory soft shell helmets and mouthpieces. Background checks on all coaches.
Parents consistently praise Blue Chip for being well-organized, emphasizing fun over winning, and giving every kid real playing time. The all-girls GEMS divisions are a standout – few leagues offer dedicated girls' flag football.
Next Level Flag Football
Newer league at Lodi High School. Ages 6-17. Winter season, 8 game dates on Sundays. ~$150+. Nike uniforms included. Optional premium player packs: receiver gloves ($40), Nike long-sleeve with your kid's name ($45), Nike hoodie ($60). Teams capped at 10 players max.
Best for kids who want the Nike gear cool factor, or families who prefer winter football. Smaller team size means more playing time per kid.
Lodi Jr Flames (Tackle and Cheer)
The only tackle football option in Lodi. Non-profit, Central Valley Youth Football & Cheer affiliated. Ages 3-14. Flag and cheer for ages 3-5 (Sparks division). Tackle football and competitive cheer for ages 6-14. Fall season August through December with playoffs, championships, and cheer nationals in Las Vegas.
Best for kids who want full-contact football with pads and helmets, or cheerleading as a competitive sport.
Can My Kid Do More Than One?
Yes – and many families do. The three programs run in different seasons (spring, winter, fall), so there's no conflict. A common combo is Blue Chip flag in spring and Jr Flames tackle in fall.