West Hempstead - Ready For Some Football?

You know summer is coming to an end when you hear helmets and pads smacking into each other across a long green field.

That was the soundtrack this past Thursday at the  as 97 kids practiced in full workout gear for the West Hempstead Youth Football Club.

The program, which is now in its seventh season, helps kids learn the fundamentals of the game and allows them to bond with their teammates.

"It teaches them a lot," said president Joe Magaraci, the league's president and founder. "It teaches them the value of teamwork, gives them a sense of discipline and offers camaraderie.

"Most importantly, they are out meeting new kids within their age group," he added.

There are four divisions in the league: Pee-Wee's (ages 5 -7), Midgets, (ages 8-9), Ponies, (ages 10-11) and Seniors, (ages 12-13.) All of the teams collectively play under the same name,

A round of practices are held in August, usually 2-3 per week, and teams begin playing games against those from other towns in early September. The majority of the games are played on Sunday with a few Friday and Saturday night games mixed in.

"They play an eight-game regular season schedule, four home and four away," said Magaraci. "The season runs right up to Thanksgiving."

The seniors limit their practice time and are flexible with games in September and October because many of the kids also play on West Hempstead Middle School's team. Registration takes place through the league's Web site. Last minute registrants may still be able to sign their child up as practices have just begun.