Local nonprofit Flag Football Elite brings a fun, safe and community-focused league to kids ages 4-17

By Cameron Rhinehardt | Photography by Eric Waters

An exciting wave of energy is sweeping across the region as children lace up their cleats and take to the gridiron for a fast-growing sport that’s capturing the nation’s attention.

Flag football has surged in popularity across the U.S. and is set to make its Olympic debut in 2028. Now, thanks to NFL Pro Bowler Cedric Peerman and his wife, Dr. Hagar Elgendy, Chatham County families can get in on the action through Flag Football Elite, a local nonprofit youth program founded by the couple that operates under the NFL Flag umbrella to make the sport fun, safe and accessible for kids.

Cedric knows firsthand how football can shape young lives. His experiences as a player – and later as an assistant coach for the Northwood High School football team – showed him the sport’s impact both on and off the field. “We want to create a safe, fun environment for kids to learn discipline through listening to a coach,” Cedric says of Flag Football Elite. “It’s a simple skill that’s great to develop when you’re young and helps in the classroom, home and so on.”

Cedric grew up playing recreational football in a small town in Virginia. That experience played a huge role in his childhood and helped him go on to win a high school state championship. “I’m one of three [people] in the past 30 years to make it to the NFL from my county,” Cedric says. “I just want to be a presence for [the kids] as a sense of encouragement. I had people like that in my life. … I didn’t make it just all on my own.”

Cedric went on to play college football at the University of Virginia and then spent nine years in the NFL, earning Pro Bowl honors in 2015. Today, he serves as interim team chaplain for UNC Football and remains dedicated to creating a supportive space where kids can grow – just like he experienced as a child.

“So many kids have hopes and dreams to get to the highest level, and I was able to do that coming from a small area,” Cedric says. “It opened my eyes to the possibilities, and I learned that – if you work hard – you can position yourself to do well and be successful.”

Flag Football Elite offers co-ed leagues for ages 4-17, with divisions often organized by age and skill level. Seasons run for six weeks, with Saturday morning practices and games held in the same time block, a convenience parents say makes a big difference.

Kasandra Granger enrolled her 9-year-old son, Casto Granger, when the program launched locally in early 2025.

“Casto took to flag football immediately,” she says. “He had never played before, but his energy, excitement, knowledge and sportsmanship all increased since starting Flag Football Elite. We were thrilled at his enthusiasm.”

Parents also appreciate how the league and youth activities like it strengthen the community.

“Chatham County can use all the sports activities it can get,” Kasandra adds. “Some of the highlights are that [Flag Football Elite] is local, all practices and games are on one day, and the NFL jerseys make these kids so excited.”

For Brian Frost, who moved to Pittsboro a couple years ago, the league has brought tremendous benefits to his 6-year-old son, Jaxon Frost.

“I’ve noticed a remarkable boost in Jaxon’s confidence,” Brian says. “He’s learned the importance of teamwork, resilience and positivity. Competing in this environment has shaped him into, not just a better athlete, but also a well-rounded person.”

Teresa Hartsfield, a Durham resident, echoes that sentiment. Her 10-year-old son Liam Hartsfield has been in the program since its launch.

“I’ve seen Liam’s persistence, hard work and love for the sport grow,” she says. “This program brings people together across Durham, Chapel Hill and Chatham. It impacts not only the children but also parents, referees and coaches.”

Cedric and Hagar moved to Pittsboro five years ago when Hagar joined UNC as a sports medicine fellow. They believe the league is as much about building community as it is about football. Parents interested in having their kids join in the fun can stop by a practice or game to see the excitement firsthand.

Cedric credits Hagar with inspiring the project. “It was her initially saying we should do this,” Cedric says. “When you start something like this, you’re putting your daily life out there for everyone to see. I’m so thankful she pushed us to bring this to our community.”

Hagar plays a crucial role managing league communications and logistics through an app and email, while Cedric coaches and mentors the players – together they balance the program with full careers and taking care of their five children. Cedric points to Hagar’s tireless commitment, as she keeps everything running smoothly by supporting league families and handling all the behind-the scenes details.

With every snap and touchdown, Chatham County’s young athletes aren’t just learning football – they’re building confidence, friendships and community spirit. Flag Football Elite is more than a game; it’s where lessons in teamwork and perseverance take root, one Saturday morning at a time.