Teams & Divisions
Utah State Pop Warner organizes athletes into age-based divisions so every child competes on a level playing field — no weight cuts, no unfair matchups.
Division eligibility is determined by your athlete's age on July 14 of the current year. There are no exceptions to this date.
Whatever age your child is on July 14 is their official Pop Warner age for the entire fall season — regardless of when their birthday falls. Turns 10 on July 13? Plays as a 10-year-old. Turns 10 on July 15? Plays as a 9-year-old.
Official Cutoff
July 14
NO EXCEPTIONS
How Pop Warner Divisions Work
Unlike many local leagues, Pop Warner places athletes by age — not weight. This means your child plays against kids their own age and developmental stage. Each division has its own rules designed to match the physical and cognitive maturity of the players.
Flag Football Divisions
The perfect entry point for our youngest athletes. Flag football builds fundamentals, confidence, and a love of the game — no contact, all fun.
6U
FlagAge Requirement
Ages 4–5
as of July 14
First introduction to football. Non-contact flag format focused on movement, fun, and basic rules.
8U
FlagAge Requirement
Ages 6–7
as of July 14
Building on fundamentals with simple team concepts, flag-pulling mechanics, and route running.
Tackle Football Divisions
Eight age-based divisions spanning ages 7 through 15. Every division follows strict Pop Warner safety regulations — no weight cuts, ever.
8U
First year of tackle football. Simplified rules and emphasis on fundamentals keep developing athletes safe.
9U
Expanded playbooks and introduction to more complex team strategies.
10U
Competitive division with full game rules and regional championship eligibility.
11U
Increased complexity and physicality with emphasis on team strategy.
12U
High-level competition preparing athletes for the next stage of play.
13U
Elite division with full national championship pathway.
14U
Top-tier competition. National championship contenders.
15U Freshman
Utah's freshman division — designed for athletes placed in middle school programs. Bridges the gap between youth football and high school varsity competition.
In Utah, freshman-age athletes are typically placed in middle school programs. This division ensures they have a competitive Pop Warner pathway before transitioning to high school varsity.
Cheer & Dance Divisions
Pop Warner cheer is a full competitive program — not a sideline activity. Athletes compete locally, regionally, and nationally.
Junior Tiny-Mite
Ages 3–5Introductory cheer and dance fundamentals in a fun, low-pressure environment for the youngest athletes.
Tiny-Mite
Ages 5–7Basic cheer skills, simple formations, and age-appropriate routines focused on participation and joy.
Mitey-Mite
Ages 6–9Introduction to stunts, jumps, and synchronized cheer sequences with an emphasis on teamwork.
Junior Peewee
Ages 8–11Intermediate routines with tumbling, jumps, and more complex choreography.
Peewee
Ages 9–12Competitive routines eligible for regional and national championships.
Junior Varsity
Ages 10–14Advanced stunting and dance with full competition scoring criteria.
Varsity
Ages 12–16High-level competitive cheer preparing athletes for high school programs.
Bantam
Ages 14–18Elite senior division with national championship eligibility. *Age 18 with restrictions.
ChallengerInclusive
Ages 5–18Inclusive division welcoming athletes of all abilities. Every child deserves to cheer.
Eligibility Requirements
Pop Warner has clear, fair eligibility rules to protect every athlete.
Age Cutoff: July 14 — No Exceptions
An athlete's age on July 14 of the current year is their official Pop Warner age for the entire fall season. There are no exceptions to this date. If your child turns 10 on July 13, they play as a 10-year-old. If they turn 10 on July 15, they play as a 9-year-old. This rule replaced the prior July 31 cutoff and is strictly enforced at every level of competition.
Academic Requirement
All participants must maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA (or equivalent) and pass at least 70% of their coursework. Pop Warner is serious about academics.
Registration Deadline
Athletes must be registered and certified before the first game of the season. Late registrations are subject to league approval.
Residency / Boundary Waivers
Players generally play for the team in their home boundary. Boundary waivers are available — contact your local association for details.
Medical Clearance
A current physical examination (within the past year) is required for all participants before the first practice.
Code of Conduct
All athletes, coaches, and parents must sign and adhere to the Pop Warner Code of Conduct. Violations may result in suspension.
Ready to Find Your Division?
Registration for the 2027 season opens soon. Secure your athlete's spot early — divisions fill up fast.