What is 7 on 7 football and why is it growing so fast?

 RAPID CITY, S.D. — Rapid City has often found itself behind the curve when it comes to emerging sports trends, largely due to the cost of launching new programs. That, however, is no longer the case.

 The city is now home to two competitive 7-on-7 football teams—605 Raptors and Hidden Gems Elite—both working to help rebuild and elevate the local football culture. These programs are not only developing talent locally but also traveling to compete against teams from other regions.

Last weekend, Hidden Gems Elite traveled to Eau Claire, Wisconsin, for its first tournament appearance. “This first tournament was about setting the foundation. Our boys showed effort, discipline, and a willingness to compete,” said 15U head coach William Kirksey. “Now we know what it takes—this was just the beginning.”

 So, what exactly is 7-on-7 football?

 No offensive or defensive linemen

No contact, aside from two-hand touch

Quarterbacks have four seconds to throw before the play is ruled dead

Fields are typically 40–50 yards long and 25–30 yards wide

Possessions begin at the 40-yard line, with first downs at the 25- and 10-yard lines

 The format has surged in popularity in recent years as the traditional game continues to evolve toward a more pass-heavy style. It also provides significant defensive benefits, giving defensive backs more opportunities to develop coverage skills with every rep.

 The pace is fast, the scoring is high, and the environment is competitive—often compared to the energy and exposure of AAU basketball.

 Beyond development, 7-on-7 football plays a major role in the college recruiting landscape. It allows coaches to evaluate skill position players’ movement, body control, instincts, and confidence in a streamlined setting. With dozens of teams competing at a single event, it becomes far more efficient for recruiters to evaluate large pools of talent compared to traditional Friday night games.

 For Rapid City athletes, the impact is clear. Players now have an opportunity to compete year-round, build chemistry, and accelerate their development during the offseason. Like any sport, growth comes from repetition and competition—and 7-on-7 football is delivering both for area athletes each spring.

Post 22 and Stevens Alum Cooper Bowman traded

This week Post 22 and Stevens alum, Cooper Bowmen, was traded to the Tampa Bay Rays from the Athletics in exchange for Gerlin Rosario, a right-handed reliever. Neither player has appeared in the big leagues, but Bowman is closer of the two to the majors. The 26-year-old second baseman/left fielder was selected by the Yankees in the 2021 draft in the 4th round after a successful career at Louisville and Iowa Western Community College.

In 2022 at the August 1st MLB trade deadline Bowman was traded to the Oakland Athletics for two Right Hand Pitchers and has been in the Athletics organization since.

Bowman will now play for the Rays AAA affiliate, Durham Bulls, in his effort to break into the Major Leagues this season. If Bowman can stay healthy, he has a much better chance cracking into the Major Leagues in the Rays organization. Rapid City is rooting for you Cooper!

Helpers needed for upcoming Rapid City events  

Rapid City Central AD, Jordan Bauer, is looking for volunteers to assist with spring track meets hosted in Rapid City. Dates for the meets are April 2nd, April 16th, Aprill 21st, and May 19th

If you are willing and able to assist, please reach out to Jordan Bauer via email, jordan.bauer@k12.sd.us, they are looking for individuals to help with field events if able.

SDSM&T Senior Associate AD, Cassie Cossiba, is looking for volunteers to assist with spring events hosted in Rapid City. Dates for the meets are below.

April 3rd – Grubby’s Easter Classic Track Meet – Event Lead, general volunteer (pit rakers, tape measure, hurdles)

April 13th and 14th – Hardrocker Spring Invite @ Red Rock Golf Club (4 volunteers to shuttle golfers between holes)

8:30am to 12:00pm – 4 each

12:00pm to 5:00pm – 4 each

Aprill 17th – Bauer Open Track Meet – Event Lead, general volunteer (pit rakers, tape measure, hurdles)

 If you are willing and able to assist, please reach out to Cassie via email,
cassie.kosiba@sdsmt.edu.

Upcoming Events

Black Hills Volleyfest – March 28-29 – King Center on SDSM&T Campus

West River Championship Kick Off – March 28th – Jackson Park Disc Golf Course

WRC Redemption Series – March 29 – Jackson Park Disc Golf Course

Black Hills Nationals Wrestling Tournament – April 2-4 – Kjerstad Event Center

Volunteer Opportunities

The Rapid City Sports Association is seeking volunteers scanning tickets at Rush hockey game on April 3rd.terested parties should email
domico@rcsportscommission.com.