U16 Mustangs Football (Bantam)

A competitive, supportive, and confidence‑building experience for young athletes

U16 Bantam football is the highest level of youth football offered through the MMFA before players move on to high school or major programs. Designed for 14 and 15 year olds, this level introduces a faster pace, more advanced strategy, and a strong sense of team identity — all within the Mustangs’ supportive, community‑driven environment.

Players do not need previous football experience. Many athletes join the sport for the first time at U16, and our coaches are trained to help every player succeed.

Who Can Play?

  • Boys and girls aged 14–15

  • Female players may be one year older and still register

  • No prior football experience required

  • All equipment provided by the Mustangs

  • Families living in the Mustangs catchment area

U16 is a great fit for athletes who enjoy teamwork, physical activity, and learning new skills in a structured, positive environment.

Team Format

U16 teams across the MMFA play 9‑person football, which balances the speed of the game with the ability to develop players at multiple positions.

This level includes:

  • Defined offensive and defensive systems

  • Position‑specific coaching

  • Special teams units

  • A full‑field experience with more strategy and teamwork

Roster size:

  • Minimum: 22 players

  • Maximum: 36 players

This ensures safe substitutions, balanced practices, and strong team depth.

Season Timeline

The Mustangs follow the MMFA’s city‑wide schedule:

March–April

Registration opens and families secure their spot.

May

No practices or club‑run camps — MMFA rules.

June–July

Optional practices begin.

Players are never penalized for missing early‑summer practices.

Late July

  • Rosters finalized

  • Coaches meeting

  • Game schedule released

August–October

Regular season games begin.

U16 includes a full playoff structure, giving players a competitive and exciting end to the season.

Practices

U16 practices are structured, energetic, and designed to help players grow physically, mentally, and socially. A typical session includes:

  • Warm‑ups and athletic movement

  • Position‑specific coaching (QB, RB, WR, OL, DL, LB, DB)

  • Offensive and defensive systems

  • Special teams development

  • Controlled scrimmages

  • Leadership and teamwork building

Practices are usually 2–3 times per week, depending on coach availability and field access.

Games

U16 games are played on a full‑length, 110‑yard field with certified officials and full MMFA rules.

Parents can expect:

  • A fast, exciting game experience

  • Coaches teaching players how to read plays, communicate, and adjust

  • A balance of development and competition

  • Clear communication from the coaching staff

  • A safe, organized game‑day environment

Spectators sit on the designated side of the field to keep sidelines safe and clear.

Equipment

The Mustangs provide:

  • Helmet

  • Shoulder pads

  • Game jersey

  • Game pants

Families provide:

  • Cleats

  • Mouthguard

  • Practice clothing

All club‑issued equipment is certified and inspected for safety.

Coaching & Support

Mustangs coaches are trained, screened, and committed to creating a safe, inclusive environment. They focus on:

  • Teaching proper technique

  • Building confidence and leadership

  • Encouraging teamwork and accountability

  • Ensuring every player feels valued and supported

Parents are welcome to volunteer in a variety of roles — no football experience required.

What Kids Gain

U16 Mustangs football helps young athletes develop:

  • Confidence and resilience

  • Teamwork and communication

  • Physical strength and coordination

  • Discipline and focus

  • Leadership skills

  • Strong friendships and belonging

This level prepares players for high school football, major programs, and lifelong confidence both on and off the field.