NEW PORT RICHEY (970 WFLA) -- Perhaps it's a sign of the times.
The Pasco Sheriff's Office Police Athletic League is dumping tackle football in favor of flag football.
It points to studies that show concerns about future health of 5 to 14 year olds playing full contact ball, including impacts on developing brains.
The organizations that run the current tackle league are breaking away from PAL to start their own organization.
The sheriff's office is also expanding its Explorer program to reach more students.