In an effort to offer children from the Jericho community the opportunity to participate in football at an early age, Jeff Falk ad Steve Brett have coordinated the Jericho Youth Football League, which is sponsored by the NFL and Nike. The league is for children between the ages of 7 and 12 and will consist of one or two practices during the week and six weeks of "flag football" games on Saturdays and Sundays, beginning Sept. 16. Games will be played on modified-size fields at Jackson Elementary School and Jericho High School and will be refereed by experienced adults.

The NFL and Nike have generously provided the league with equipment such as coaches' kits, flags, playbooks, flyers and jerseys. Falk and Brett received a tremendous response at registration in June recruiting over 170 children to play football. Thanks to all the support from the community, board of education and the superintendent of fields, they look forward to a successful season.

The goal of the league is for children to learn football skills and have fun. Tryouts will be held at Jackson Elementary School from 5:45 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Monday Aug. 21 for 9- and 10-year olds and Tuesday, Aug. 29 for 10-, 11-, and 12-year-olds. Children should wear cleats and athletic clothing. If you cannot make your scheduled tryout, you can attend one of the other days that would be more convenient for you. Tryouts will last about 15 minutes and will consist of a 40-yard dash, throwing and catching footballs and agility drills.

Coaches and assistant coaches are needed. Please contact Jeff Falk at 485-2729 or 637-1322 or Steve Brett at 978-9541 if you have any questions or are interested in coaching.