What began as a simple act of volunteering turned into a lifelong mission for Ron Bellows. Over a decade ago, Ron stepped in to coach his oldest son’s 5-year-old flag football team, simply wanting to be involved. But what started as a way to spend more time with his child quickly transformed into a full-fledged passion. Now the founder and head coach of the Gilbert Ravens, Ron has built a thriving youth flag football club with multiple teams across age divisions, creating a legacy rooted in growth, grit, and community.
“The pace and competitiveness of flag football have evolved so much since I started,” Ron shares. “It’s no longer just a casual game. We’ve got highly trained athletes, more disciplined coaching, and even national attention.” And with that growth comes added pressure, often amplified by social media. That’s why Ron believes in balancing skill-building with emotional development. “The coach’s role has shifted and we’re not just shaping athletes, we’re guiding kids through real-life lessons on resilience and confidence.”
To Ron, flag football is the ideal sport for kids. “It teaches speed, agility, decision-making without the physical risks of tackle football. And more importantly, it builds confidence.” Kids of all shapes, sizes, and skill levels can find a role and feel like they belong. “Seeing a kid light up after a big play and that moment sticks.”
Ron recommends kids start around age five. “It’s the perfect time to build coordination, learn teamwork, and start creating good habits around discipline and coachability.” He focuses on fundamental skills like footwork, catching, flag pulling, and throwing, but also drills deeper: “Reading the field, understanding coverage, staying mentally sharp and all of that matters.”
And it’s not just on-field lessons that matter. Teamwork and culture are foundational to the Gilbert Ravens. “Every player has a role, and I make sure they know it,” Ron says. “We celebrate selfless plays as much as touchdowns.” Off the field, team outings and tournament travel create powerful bonds, thanks in part to Ron’s wife, who organizes many of these memory-making experiences. Older players often mentor younger ones, reinforcing leadership skills and a sense of responsibility.
When asked how he helps young players build confidence, Ron says, “It comes from preparation and belief. I put kids in positions where they can succeed and build on that. Whether they’re the fastest on the team or still learning how to pull a flag, I make sure they feel seen.”
One of Ron’s most unforgettable moments came during the Hard Count National Championship in San Diego. “We were down 19-6 at halftime in the Semi-Finals, and the other team had the ball to start the second half,” he recalls. But his team didn’t give up. With four second-half interceptions and three unanswered touchdowns, they pulled off an incredible comeback, winning 25-19. “It wasn’t just the win. It was how they rallied, stayed composed, and came together. That moment captured everything I love about coaching.”
Ron’s advice for young players? “Have fun, be coachable, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Every great moment starts with trying.”
Now, as he watches former players transition to high school and even prepare for college football, Ron is filled with pride. “The Gilbert Ravens may have started as just one team, but it’s become a community. Coaching is about more than X’s and O’s, it’s about believing in kids before they believe in themselves. That’s why I keep showing up.”