On Sunday morning, the fields behind the Barrington High School tennis courts were filled with Panthers and Bears, and Raiders and Rams. On another set of fields nearby, Cowboys battled Chiefs and Ravens sparred with Giants. 

Welcome to the Barrington Flag Football League.

Nearly 150 boys and girls between the ages of 5 and 14 are playing in the newly-formed league this fall. There are four teams in each of the four different age divisions — 5-7, 8/9, 10/11, and 12-14. Parents volunteer as coaches, and players on the Barrington High School football team serve as referees.

The league started in late August, as officials held two player evaluation sessions. Teams were drafted and after playing two preseason games, the regular season contests kicked off. Teams play games on Tuesday nights and Sunday mornings at the high school fields.

Sunday, Sept. 16 marked the fourth game of the regular season; there are 12 regular-season games scheduled, followed by the playoffs.

League officials have been pleased with the turnout this season and are hoping to grow the league in years to come. There are also plans underway to build connections between the Barrington Flag Football League and the Barrington High School team. For starters, players in the 8/9-year-old division will be part of a pre-game ceremony at the Sept. 28 Eagles' home football game.

Barrington Flag Football League officials are also planning to hold tryouts for regional flag football tournament teams later this fall. The regional tournament, which is sponsored by the NFL, is held in November and winning teams can advance to nationals.