Brand New to Football?

Welcome

If your athlete is trying football for the first time, then welcome! The St. Vital Mustangs have been developing young players, both girls and boys, since 1948, and we know how overwhelming the first season can feel. This page walks you through exactly what to expect, what you need, and how we support new players every step of the way.

What Tackle Football Is

Tackle football (ages 8–23) is a structured, safe, team‑based sport played through Football Manitoba. Players are grouped by age division and coached in proper technique, teamwork, and confidence-building skills.

New players join every single year. No experience is required.

Safety and Coaching

Safety is the foundation of our program

  • All coaches are Safe Contact certified through Football Canada.

  • Players learn proper tackling, blocking, and falling techniques before any contact drills.

  • Practices progress gradually from non-contact to controlled contact.

  • Certified trainers support teams during games.

  • Concussion protocols follow Football Manitoba guidelines.

  • We teach the game the right way—focused on development, respect, and long-term health.

Equipment: What You Need and What We Provide

The Mustangs supply

  • Helmet (certified and fitted)

  • Shoulder pads

  • Game pants with pads

  • Game jersey

  • Practice jersey (varies by year)

  • Mouthguard (first one included)

Families supply

  • Cleats (soccer or football)

  • Water bottle

  • Optional: gloves, compression wear, girdle

We help with fitting and can recommend local stores for gear.

What a Typical Season Looks Like

  • Spring (optional): Skills camps or conditioning

  • July: Equipment pickup and team formation

  • August: Practices begin (2–4 per week depending on age)

  • Late August–October: Regular season games (1 per week)

  • October: Playoffs

  • November: Wrap-up and team banquet

  • Practices are held in St. Vital. Games are played across Winnipeg.

Time Commitment

Football is a team sport that requires consistent attendance, but schedules are predictable:

  • 2–4 practices per week (age-dependent)

  • 1 game per week

  • Occasional team events or film sessions

We encourage families to communicate early about vacations or conflicts.

Costs and Financial Support

Registration Fees Cover

  • Equipment

  • Field rentals

  • Officials

  • Insurance

  • League fees

Financial assistance is available through KidSport and Jumpstart, and we help families apply confidentially.

What Parents Can Expect

  • Clear communication through the TeamLinkt app

  • A welcoming, community-focused environment

  • Volunteer opportunities (chain crew, team manager, events)

  • Coaches who value effort, respect, and development over winning at all costs

What Players Can Expect

  • A supportive team environment

  • Skill development at every position

  • Fair opportunities to learn and contribute

  • Coaches who care about character as much as performance

Final Note

Every Mustang starts somewhere. Many of our strongest players began with zero experience. Your athlete will be supported, encouraged, and challenged in all the right ways.