In these times when the youth sports headlines are dominated with concerns over the increasingly aggressive behavior of parents, coaches and players, it's refreshing to see a new league that actual stands by its word.

The Farmingdale Titans were created with one goal: every child plays or cheers, regardless of their skill level. Last year, their inaugural season they had one team and now, in their second year, have grown to eight teams consisting of over 180 football players cheerleaders.

When asked why he formed the league, Bob Thompson, founder and league president, states, "I was tired of seeing children's self-esteem being crushed because some coach thinks that a victory is more important than the child's well being and self-esteem."

The Titan teams play in the Suffolk Police Athletic League (PAL) program that currently has more than 200 teams. PAL stresses fair playing time and it provides a favorable environment for the children. The Titan Organization expects to double its teams next year due to more and more parents learning about the Titan philosophy. The Titans give children the opportunity to play the sport regardless of their ability. Thompson goes on to say, "There is a position for each child if a coach wants to take the time to teach and find one. In addition there are more opportunities for the kids to play if you have someone dedicated enough to make sure it happens. No child should be washed up at 8-, 9-, 10- or 11-years-old.

Many Long Island youth football teams, while they carry 20-30 players, in reality only 15 or so play regularly. The lesser-ability kids don't see much playing time. The children become discouraged and usually don't continue playing. Being a member of the Titans enables them to get the satisfaction of playing and being part of a team while building their self-esteem.

One Titan parent is thrilled with their 10-year-old son's renewed interest in playing football, "He had, and let's just say, a less than positive experience with another league, and did not want to play anymore. He wasn't a starter and he become discouraged because of his limited playing time. Now, he can't wait to go to practice or the game. He's having fun, learning how to play and enjoying being part of the team."

"Sure we want to win, but we won't do it at the expense of playing time for all the kids. We win or lose as a team," states Bob Kendrick, co-founder and coach of the 12-year-old team. "A child who is on a winning team but does not play - does not feel as fulfilled as a child who plays but does not win all their games. Therein lies the difference between the majority of youth football leagues and the Farmingdale Titan League.

It isn't about the boys either. The same ethics apply to the girls cheerleading squads. A Titan Cheerleader Mom is also pleased that her daughter can be part of the larger group. "She loves cheering, but she never could make seven-day-a-week practices; she did not want to give up soccer or gymnastics; she's 11-years-old and should experience everything so she can make a educated decision on what she wants to participate in when she gets older. Now she's out there cheering her heart out and enjoying being part of the team."

The rapid growth of the league has presented a formidable challenge to its founders. To equip the players and cheerleaders is a large expense and finding available playing fields is always an issue. With help from the town of Oyster Bay and the Farmingdale School District they have been able to find playing fields. With anticipated growth next year, fields will once again present a problem. As for the equipment issue, they hope to get some sponsors and community support to help offset the costs.

If any league or individual is interested in learning more about the Titan philosophy. You can contact them at info@farmingdaletitans.com.