How many players are on each team, and how do substitutions work?

• On the field: a maximum of 5 players in 5v5 and 7 in 7v7. A team needs a minimum of 4 (5v5) or 6 (7v7) players to compete. More than the maximum on the field while the ball is live is an illegal substitution.
• Roster size: depends on the guidelines set by leagues and tournaments.
• Late or short teams: a team without the minimum number of players on the field within 15 minutes of the scheduled start forfeits the game by a score of 6-0.
• Substitutions: substitutes enter only from the team bench area and only when the ball is dead. Offensive substitutions are allowed up to the point the centre sets up for the snap, and defensive substitutions up to the snap. A player leaving the field must go directly to the team bench area.
• Captains: each team may have a maximum of 2 captains in 5v5 (4 in 7v7). Only a captain is entitled to an explanation of the rules, including penalty options.

Source: Canadian Amateur Rule Book for Flag Football 2026, Rule 3.