The Board of Directors of the Johnston Football League unanimously voted on February 15 to leave the Rhode Island Pre-Teen Football League after 20 years and join the Blackstone Valley for the 2012 Season.

All members of Johnston Football are very excited about the move, and believe that their decision was made in the best interest of the players and cheerleaders.

It was a very difficult decision, with the league having been with RI Pre-Teen for so long. The organization had experienced steady attrition over the past few years including losing three organizations this year, prior to Johnston’s decision.

In order for JFL to complete its mission of serving the young athletes of the town, the organization had to ensure that it was associated with a viable league that would provide a healthy level of competition at all age levels. The board questioned the viability of RI Pre-Teen for the 2012 season and therefore committed to moving to Blackstone Valley.

Blackstone Valley Football is a member of American Youth Football and Cheer, the largest youth football and cheer organization in the world with over 900,000 members. Such an affiliation will expand JFL’s level of competition beyond Rhode Island, including regional and national competitions.

As for Blackstone Valley, there are currently 15 organizations for the 2012 season and competition begins at 5 years of age and continues through ninth grade. There is no longer a weight limit, but because the divisions are grade based, AYF believes the competition structure to be safer at all levels. There are also postseason all-star opportunities. JFL expects an increased level of competition with reputable organizations. This will benefit the players and cheerleaders and will enhance and expedite their development.

The 13 and 14-year-olds have won back-to-back state championships the last two years and in 2010 three Johnston teams were undefeated and won their respective Super Bowls. Through a combination of effective leadership and coaching, JFL has established a strong foundation of championship football and expects the best athletes in Johnston and surrounding towns to register to play at open registration nights April 12-14 at the firehouse on Greenville Avenue across from Sundaes Ice Cream. For more information, please visit www.johnstonfootball.com.