The Apex Predators are one of the country’s preeminent flag football programs and remain active in USA Football’s sanctioned tournaments. By participating in tournaments across the country, the Apex Predators strengthen the national football community and open the pathway for their athletes to compete for spots on the U.S. Junior Flag National Teams.  

The Las Vegas-based powerhouse flag program, the Predators have swept through tournaments while competing in several divisions, including the 9u, 10u, 12u coed, 12u, 14u girls’ and 17u girls' levels.  

The Predators offer a very inclusive environment and welcome both girls and boys at all experience levels.  

“We are one of the most organic organizations,” Predators 14u and 17u coach Todd Thomson said. “All our kids are from here and go to school here. We take a lot of pride in our player development. Seeing these kids develop between tournaments, that’s what it’s all about. Individual growth leads to team growth, and it’s very rewarding as a coach. It’s really cool to see them grow. My first job as a coach is to make the kids fall in love with the game.” 

USA Football elevates the standard of play for sanctioned tournaments, which become part of the pathway to The One Flag Championship. Tournaments are played under modified International Federation of American Football (IFAF) rules. 

Coach Thompson highlighted one aspect of USA Football’s tournaments as a key attraction and differentiator in the space.  

“I think one of the biggest things, especially on the girls’ side, is the opportunity,” Coach Thompson said. “USA Football getting involved is extra motivating. Not only do I get to go to this tourney with my team, but there’s scouting there for something bigger than just this. One of the main goals is to get the athletes to the next level.”  

USA Football personnel are on-hand at sanctioned tournaments to scout athletes for the Men’s, Women’s, 15U Boy’s and Girls’ and 17U Boys’ and Girls’ U.S. National Teams. Select athletes will earn 2024 U.S. National Team Trial invitations. 

Thompson coached both Maci Joncich and Bailey Higa, who both earned invitations to USA Football’s U.S. National Team training camp in June to compete for roster spots ahead of the 2023 Junior Flag International Cup.   

“We have competed in a few USA Football sanctioned tournaments and had nothing but good experiences,” Predators coach Rudy Fernandez said. “It’s important to get them in contact with the right people. It’s all about connecting them and seeing if we can get them to National Trials.” 

Fernandez serves as the assistant coach on USA Football’s U.S. Boys’ 17U National Team.  

Additional perks of winning sanctioned tournaments include medals for teams at adult tournaments, rings for winners at the youth level and full or half-bids to The One.