Mountainside PAL Flag Football Players Cheer at Rutgers Season Opener

Mountainside PAL flag football players and their families made the trip to SHI Stadium on Thursday, September 3, to experience Rutgers' season opener against the University of Massachusetts. The annual outing has become a tradition for the program, offering young athletes a chance to see Big Ten football alongside teammates, friends, and family.

Before heading into the stadium, families gathered outside Jersey Mike's Arena for a pregame tailgate. Kids spent time with teammates and friends, building excitement before the group moved inside to cheer on the Scarlet Knights.

Every registered Mountainside PAL flag football participant received one free ticket to the game. Family members and friends were welcome to join, with additional tickets available for $11 each.

Program manager Chris Delzotti described the outing as a reflection of the Mountainside PAL program's core values. "Friendship, participation, and fun," Delzotti said, are what the annual Rutgers trip embodies.

The flag football program itself remains open to children in kindergarten through fifth grade. Sessions run on Saturday afternoons through the end of October. Each week includes some drills, but most of the time is spent playing backyard-style football with friends.

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FAQ

Q: What was the Mountainside PAL flag football outing to Rutgers about?
A: Mountainside PAL flag football players and their families attended Rutgers' season opener against the University of Massachusetts on September 3, 2026. The annual outing lets young athletes experience Big Ten football alongside teammates and family.

Q: How much did it cost to attend the game?
A: Every registered Mountainside PAL flag football participant received one free ticket. Family members and friends could purchase additional tickets for $11 each.

Q: What did families do before the game?
A: Families gathered outside Jersey Mike's Arena for a pregame tailgate before heading into SHI Stadium. Kids spent time with teammates and friends during the tailgate.

Q: What ages can participate in the Mountainside PAL flag football program?
A: The flag football program is open to children in kindergarten through fifth grade. Sessions run on Saturday afternoons through the end of October.

Q: What does the Mountainside PAL flag football program focus on?
A: According to program manager Chris Delzotti, the program emphasizes friendship, participation, and fun. Each week includes some drills, but most of the time is spent playing backyard-style football with friends.