KICKING IT WITH STYLE. The Chickadees, a youth flag rugby team created by locals David and Kelsey Karn, welcome both girls and boys around ages 6-11 — with any level of experience — in the area to join the fast-paced fun. (Submitted)

What do you get when you mix soccer, football, and a little bit of Red Rover? As the Chickadees will soon find out, the answer is rugby. The Chickadees, a youth flag rugby team created by locals David and Kelsey Karn, is the perfect place for kids to try this sport. Flag rugby is quickly gaining popularity around the country and in our community.

The Chickadees welcome both girls and boys around ages 6-11 — with any level of experience — in the area to join the fast-paced fun. Practices and games will be held Thursdays, 5-6:30pm, from April 17 to May 29 at Casper Park in Chippewa Falls. No need to register through school or another organization – the Karns run the whole show. A $40 registration fee includes a t-shirt and the chance to play.

For this co-ed, non-traveling, and low-commitment league, rotating teams of five will play against each other. Not only will kids learn about rugby, but they'll have the opportunity to develop teamwork, communication skills, and confidence while being active.

After 23 years of playing and coaching rugby, David welcomes any and all questions about the sport. Also affiliated with local women's and men’s teams — The Vipers and The Orcs — he and Kelsey aim to support the growth of rugby in the area and inspire the next generation.

“The nice thing about rugby is that it doesn’t matter if you’re short or tall, big or small, fast or slow – every player gets a chance to run with the ball,” David said. “Everybody has a spot on the field.”

For more information or to sign up, contact karnenterprises@hotmail.com or visit Chickadees Youth Rugby Facebook page.