Airmen compete during Malmstrom’s flag-football season

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Collin Schmidt
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Airmen from around Malmstrom Air Force Base participated in the last games of this year's flag-football regular season Oct. 17 at the base softball fields. In all, more than 100 Airmen dedicated their time and athletic ability to represent their respective squadrons in an effort to make it to a playoff game and hold the title of Malmstrom's top flag-football team.

"This is a great chance for Airmen to get out and interact with other people," said Staff Sgt. Josue Silva, 341st Force Support Squadron intramural sports director. "For some of these guys, this is one of the only opportunities they get to relax away from work and do something they truly enjoy. It's a lot of fun to watch everyone get out, play some football and just get away from the struggles of day-to-day life for a while."

Fourteen teams started this season, making this year's turnout the best since flag-football was introduced to Malmstrom more than 20 years ago. The sport also brings Airmen of all ranks together to learn from one another and enjoy camaraderie.

"The highest ranking officer to play this year was a major and the highest ranking enlisted member was a senior master sergeant," Silva said. "When we play, rank stays off the field. Common courtesy is still expected, so even when things get a little heated, everyone shakes it off and shakes hands at the end of a game."

Safety is also a key factor. Every precaution is taken to ensure participants are able to play the game without having to worry about injury. Before the start of every season, the fitness directors meet with team coaches to lay down guidelines for the games and discuss ways to ensure the safety of all players on the field.

"We do our best to stay motivated, stay safe and have fun," Silva said.

During every game, the players leave it all on the field. Every play is coordinated with precision in hopes of gaining as many yards as possible. Teamwork is key in taking the win.

"I have a passion for football," said Airman 1st Class Brady Castellano, 341st Civil Engineer Squadron knowledge operator. "Growing up as a kid, I always played the game. I did well in high school and was eventually offered a scholarship to play for Washington State. It seems obvious, but I love the fact that this is a team sport. I was always told that a fist strikes harder than an open hand, and to strike with the power of a fist, you need to be a part of a tightly knit unit. Football brings out the athlete in everyone and it offers an opportunity for us to work together."

During every flag-football season since becoming Malmstrom's intramural sports directors Silva and Staff Sgt. Marvin Lat, 341st FSS fitness specialist, have personally developed and maintained the fields for players.

"Next year we plan on improving and upgrading every piece of gear we can," Silva said. "We do everything possible to give the players the best playing experience and have been very fortunate in that some of our staff has even used their own money to pay for gear so everyone can enjoy the flag-football season. This is a sport that means a lot to many people and we will continue to do the best we can with what we have."

"Regardless of funding, we will always offer the program," said Lat. "This is a big stress reliever for Airmen of all ages and ranks. For them to have the opportunity to come together and enjoy one another's company while enjoying an American pastime is important and I have loved every minute spent on the field with them. Play on."

For more information on Malmstrom's sports programs and starting dates contact the fitness center at 731-3621.