Bears’ Monster Flag Football program by Invisalign flourishes in second year

The Bears recently concluded the second year of their Monsters Flag Football program, which provides boys and girls, typically ages 11-17, an opportunity to learn and develop flag football skills through 90-minute training sessions.

Sponsored by Invisalign, the program grew exponentially in its second year as the Bears hosted 25 clinics for more than 2,600 students, compared to 20 clinics for 1,500 students in the program’s inaugural year.

“Monsters Flag is a great catalyst for middle schools and high schools interested in starting flag football teams at their schools,” director of youth football Gustavo Silva said. “The clinics provide evidence that the students are interested and excited about the sport. Monsters Flag demonstrates that we are committed to growing flag football beyond just getting girls flag sanctioned at the high school level. There are still thousands of kids who can enjoy and benefit from the game, and we’re thrilled to see the interest continue to rise.”

Monsters Flag Football originated as an extension of the Bears’ Mini Monsters program, which has been a staple in the Chicagoland community for nearly nine years by introducing football and the importance of a healthy lifestyle to kids ages 7-12.

For older kids, including those who have never played the sport as well as current flag football players, Monsters Flag Football sessions are designed to be skill-based, which in turn allows players to hone in on fundamentals and technique.

An increased demand for these clinics throughout Illinois also resulted in more appearances from both current and former Bears. From the current roster, receiver Rome Odunze, running back Roschon Johnson and the entire 2025 rookie class all helped lead various clinics during the year.

“It was a good experience to be able to go out there and just see them run around and enjoy the sport,” Odunze said. “Obviously, the sport means a lot to me, and I like how much flag football is progressing. I’m super, super glad I got to go out there, and I feel like they had a great time.”