The Mission of the Southern Illinois Chiefs Organization
Modern life does not offer much opportunity for a communal and shared pursuit of a common goal. This in turn has led to an epidemic of mental health problems like loneliness, depression, increased suicides and assaults, substance abuse disorders, poverty and increased criminal behavior.
Early in life, society addresses the issue by allowing young people the opportunity to participate in athletics and strive for a common goal with members of a team.
The Southern Illinois Chiefs firmly believe in the benefits of sports as a means to combat the problems of modern life and provide adults the same benefits of fellowship, and striving for common goals, we provide younger people during their school years.
The mission of the Southern Illinois Chiefs is to bring committed people together in a team effort to achieve success on the field of endeavor in the sport of 8 man football. And, through that mission, give adults a chance to feel they are a part of a common goal and enjoy the benefits of the fellowship and camaraderie that grows from that pursuit. Thus, perhaps, providing respite from the ills of modern society.
Who Are We?
The Southern Illinois Chiefs is an 8 Man Outdoor football team participating in the National Football Association league. The Chiefs joined the NFA beginning with the 2025 season. Prior to that, they competed in the Mid America 8 Man Football League. The organization draws players from across South Eastern and Central Illinois and Western Indiana. The franchise was founded by Austin Ragsdale, and has been in continuous existence since 2017. Today, it is owned by Austin Ragsdale, Zach Bollenbaugh and Curtiss Cline. Practices and games are held at Neal Park in Toledo, Illinois.
The organization is currently in the application process to become a registered 501(c)3 non profit organization, in order to better meet their mission.
This year's slogan "WE'RE NOT SCREWING AROUND ANYMORE" reflects the organization's commitment to setting expectations and standards that we expect the members of the organization to fulfill in pursuit of the excellence we are committed to obtaining.
The National Football Association
The National Football Association (NFA) is a governing body over mens , womens and youth football, whose stated purpose is to further advance players knowledge of the game of football.
The outdoor 8 Man Football League for the 2025 Season consists of the: