About Us

Nation Flag Football is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to
becoming a leading youth sports program that inspires, develops, and empowers young athletes both on and off the field. We strive to create a nurturing, energetic, and inclusive environment where every child can build confidence, learn strong athletic fundamentals, and develop a lifelong love for flag football.

Our program focuses on teaching essential skills and concepts while also emphasizing teamwork, leadership, accountability, and character development. We value fun, safety, respect, discipline, and sportsmanship — all delivered through experienced, supportive, and passionate coaches.

Nation Flag Football was founded by three dads with a passion for youth athletics and a commitment to doing things the right way — with integrity, fairness, and a child-first mindset. Our mission is to build a Nation of confident, skilled, healthy, and respectful young athletes who grow not just as players, but as people.

At Wantagh Nation Flag Football, we are dedicated to fostering a love for the game among boys and girls by teaching essential skills and concepts. Our mission is to create an environment where young athletes can develop their talents, build strong teamwork, learn valuable life lessons, and cultivate social skills. We prioritize staying healthy and active, while instilling the values of respect, discipline, and sportsmanship through our knowledgeable and dedicated coaching staff. Through our program, we aim to create a Nation of excellent athletes and people.

Meet Our Coaches

Coach Ryan Proper

Ryan Proper is a Physical Education teacher at Schreiber High School in Port Washington and a lifelong multi-sport athlete. As a former football and track athlete at Springfield College, Ryan brings a deep foundation of athletic skill, leadership, and teaching experience to Nation Flag Football. With more than 10 years of football coaching experience, Ryan has established a reputation for developing complete athletes — physically, mentally, and competitively. His coaching journey includes: - 8 seasons at Lynbrook High School - 2 years as Varsity Head Coach at Franklin K. Lane - 4 seasons as an assistant coach at Port Washington - Currently in his 3rd season as Head Flag Football Coach Ryan played an integral role in launching the program during its inaugural year and continues to inspire players through discipline, fundamentals, teamwork, and personal growth.

Coach John Gendels

John Gendels, from Wantagh, NY, is a former Long Island Football Champion and All-State athlete whose passion for the game continues to grow. Coaching allows him to stay connected to the sport he loves while helping young athletes develop their skills and confidence. John is also a Long Island Lacrosse Champion, Academic All-American, and former team captain. He prides himself on leading by example, working hard, and competing with heart — values he instills in every player he coaches.

Coach Arnold Danato

Coach Donado has led Port Washington Track & Field as head coach for 14 years, helping build the program into a highly competitive team with strong individual standouts. In football, he’s spent 12 years coaching at both the JV and varsity levels—serving as JV head coach and varsity assistant. He has worked with every position, helping scheme and game plan on both offense and defense.