Chicago Bears regional flag football tourney coming to Rockford
By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — The Chicago Bears NFL Flag Regional Tournament will bring competitors from across the Midwest to Clarence Hicks Sports Complex next month for the debut tournament of the newly expanded facility.
GoRockford and the Rockford Park District announced on Monday that the invite-only competition would take place Saturday, Oct. 25, at the complex, 2004 Ogilby Road. The facility, which was officially opened at the end of last month, features a full-sized artificial turf field, eight-lane running track and a warm up zone with artificial turf that was previously used in the Walter Payton Center at Halas Hall.
“We’re thrilled to welcome NFL Flag athletes and families from across the Midwest to the Clarence Hicks Sports Complex for this historic first major tournament,” Lamont Jones, manager of Clarence Hicks Sports Complex, said in a news release. “This is exactly the type of event we envisioned when making major improvements to create a premier venue where young athletes can showcase their talents, build lasting memories and unite communities through the power of play.”
The tournament is expected to bring more than 1,000 players, coaches and fans to the city. It would generate an estimated economic impact of $467,509, according to GoRockford.
The competition will bring in 50 teams from Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan and Iowa with boys and girls teams in 11 divisions. The ages range from 8 and under to 14 and under for boys, and 10 and under through high school for girls.
Flag football has been growing in recent years, becoming an IHSA sanctioned sport and set to make its debut at the 2028 Olympics.
“Bringing the Chicago Bears NFL Flag Regional Tournament to Rockford is a big step in growing the game across Illinois. This community has embraced football development programs like our Mini Monsters Clinics and Girls Flag Football from the very beginning, showing a true commitment to creating opportunities for future athletes,” said Gustavo Silva, director of football development for the Bears. “Now young athletes from across the Midwest will have the chance to compete at a first-class venue while families and fans enjoy everything Rockford has to offer. Moments like this not only elevate the sport but also create opportunities that lead to long-term impact on both the athletes and the community.”
This year marks the first time the event has been held in Rockford and the second edition of the Bears’ regional competition. Winners from Rockford will earn a spot in the Summer Championships in July 2026.
This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas
