The Crystal Lake Raiders tackle football program focuses on building fundamentals and enhancing players' knowledge, skills, and overall performance. With multiple levels of play determined by age and weight, our program offers a comprehensive and inclusive experience for all participants.
To kick off the football season, we hold combines where kids can get back into the football mindset. During these two weeks, participants will learn and refine their skills, while coaches evaluate them to determine the appropriate team placement. The season typically concludes in November, or sooner depending on playoff qualification.
All play in our program adheres to the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) rules and principles. Teams generally have half of their games at home, with the other half requiring travel. Game days can be on Saturdays or Sundays, scheduled between 9 AM and 6 PM. Our home games take place at Lippold Field in Crystal Lake. The head coach determines the practice schedule and the location within Crystal Lake.
Welcome to the Crystal Lake Raiders website! We are a youth football team proudly affiliated with the Chicagoland Youth Football League (TCYFL) and USA Football's league affiliation membership.
The TCYFL is the largest independent youth tackle football league in the United States. With hundreds of teams from 38 member communities in Chicagoland and southeastern Wisconsin, the TCYFL provides a positive and safe environment for 5-14-year-olds.
As members of USA Football's league affiliation membership, we are part of the national governing body for the sport in the United States. USA Football is also the official youth football development partner of the NFL and its 32 teams. Through our partnership with USA Football, we ensure that every family has individual access to the site and its features, enhancing the overall experience for our members.
Join the Crystal Lake Raiders today and be part of a team that values sportsmanship, teamwork, and personal growth. We are proud to be affiliated with the Chicagoland Youth Football League (TCYFL), the largest independent youth tackle football league in the United States. For a full list of communities participating in the TCYFL program, please refer to their website.
Here are the important details for the Fall 2024 Football Program:
Tackle Football registration costs cover the use of a helmet, shoulder pads, and game pants throughout the season. At the end of the season, players get to keep their game jersey. However, registration fees do not include game socks, practice jersey, practice pants, cleats, protective cup, padded shirts (if desired), mouth guards, or any other additional gear. Integrated pants are available for purchase for players to keep.
Join the Crystal Lake Raiders today and provide your child with a rewarding football experience, emphasizing sportsmanship, teamwork, and personal growth.