Most Bethlehem residents probably aren’t aware, but the city is home to four world championship youth flag football teams. The girls 8 and under (U), and boys 7U, 10U and 12U achieved success under the ‘WeDifferent’ team name earlier this year. Over 400 teams from the United States and abroad competed with games being broadcast on both Disney and ESPN. About 400 local kids between the ages of 5 to 17 participate in the program.

Players and their families were feted at a banquet June 30 at the Boys & Girls Club of Bethlehem, where the kids are all members.

Locally, the ‘WeDifferent’ teams practice on the Bethlehem Steeler’s field in Saucon Park. They travel to games in places such as Las Vegas, Philadelphia, Boston, Canton and Tampa and receive a sponsorship donation from the New York Jets.

They’ve visited football and baseball stadiums, and have gone sightseeing. “They learn life lessons,” says ‘WeDifferent’ president Jay Millan.

There are 10 players on a roster and they play five on five, says Millan. The fields are sized at 25 yards wide and 70 yards long. They get three to four downs to get a first down at midfield. Touchdowns are scored at six points and extra points are earned at one point for a five yard attempt and 2 points for an attempt from the 10 yard line. The ‘mercy rule’ is applied when a lead reaches 28 points.

Representing Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds at the banquet, Director of Community and Economic Development Laura Collins read a proclamation and told the players and their families, “The city of Bethlehem is so proud of you.”

Food for the banquet, which included mac & cheese, pizza, rice, chicken, steak, pasta Alfredo and salads was provided by Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba’s Italian Grill and through donations to the organization.