Swarm Football

Are the Darien Athletic Association and the Darien Swarm the same entity?

The D.A.A. is the governing body residing over all Darien Swarm sports teams.  The D.A.A. supports several youth sport programs and is one of the only organizations that requires all players to maintain an acceptable scholastic level in school to participate on a Darien Swarm team.  All teams wear the Black and Gold Swarm colors. 

Who can sign-up to play on a Swarm team?

All children may participate on a Swarm team.
There are, however, certain age and weight limitations on all levels of our program that are regulated by Pop Warner.  The Pop Warner age and weight guidelines can be found within our website by clicking HERE.

How many games are played during the season?

There are 8 games played each season. Four (4) home games which are played at Hinsdale South High School and four (4) away at various towns which are also members of Pop Warner Youth Football League. In addition, each team may qualify and play in one or two playoff games which are typically played within the first few weeks following the end of the regular season.

How often do they practice?

The Pop Warner season officially starts on August 1st.  Teams practice Monday through Friday the first 2 weeks and then practice on Monday / Wednesday / Thursday (depending on the age of the players) throughout the remainder of the season.

Where do they practice?

All practices are held at Hinsdale South High School in Darien.

How long is practice?

Practice is from 6:00 to 8:00pm.  These times are subject to change based on the age of the team and available daylight hours.

What equipment do I have to purchase?

The Darien Athletic Association provides all equipment except cleats, mouth piece and an athletic supporter.

How long are the games?

A game normally lasts about 2 hours. Teams normally arrive to the game field about 1 hour prior to game time for weigh-in. Players are free to leave after a short team meeting immediately following the game.

How do I know what weight class my child will go to?

All players are weighed initially at registration and when they pick up their equipment. Parents at that time are made aware of any child who may need to move up to a higher weight class. Players are also weighed each week starting with the first regular season game. Players are allowed additional weight-one pound per week for growth, once the season begins.

How far do the teams travel?

Darien Swarm is a part of the Pop Warner – Chicagoland Conference. The regular season games are played in the communities which are represented by this league. Click HERE to view other participating communities.

What is your refund policy?

45 Days or more before the start of the season - full refund minus a $50.00 service charge. 

Within 45 Days – 50% refund of total registration less any applicable prepaid fees.

Start of Season – No refund

If a child is dropped from the program for any of the following reasons, NO fees will be REFUNDED.
1.   Failure to provide all documents required by deadline dates.            
2.   The child is a disciplinary problem.