Category: Flag Football

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EBC 2019 Week 1 Preview

IAFA Flag Football Emeald Bowl Conference 6th season is kicking off today. We thought we’d spend the next few weeks introducing all twelve teams competing for a place in the playoff, a chance to win Emerald Bowl 6 and a shot at being called 2019 National Flag Football Champions. That being said, all twelve teams are made of the best flag football you can get in the country today which is deemed to be this season the most competitive one yet.

The EBC 2019 season will kick off with nine teams and nine games in the People’s Park, Portadown. You can find all fixtures from this page Flag Football | EBC. The nine teams are the Belfast Knights, Belfast Trojans, Craigavon Cowboys, Dublin Bay Raptors, Dublin Rebels, Edenderry Eagles, Louth Mavericks, Meath Bulldogs, Westmeath Minotaurs.

This week, we had the pleasure to chat with team managers and head coaches from three of the teams playing this Saturday. We talked to Robbie Caldwell, head coach of the Louth Mavericks; Ian Shaws, head coach of the Belfast Trojans and Gytis Stankevicius, team manager of the Meath Bulldogs.

Louth mavericks - robbie calwell, HEAD COACH
GBC_Flag Football Gloves_Mavericks

IAFA: Second appearance in the EBC with a close loss in Emerald Bowl 5 to the current and two-time champions, Craigavon Cowboys. Tell us a bit about how this all sunk in and about your preparation for the upcoming EBC 2019 season?

RC: Any loss is hard to take, it was an extremely hard-fought final that could have went either way.

Throughout the season we showed a lot of grit and determination in pursuit of the championship. These season’s preparations have been taken to a new level. We’ve many veterans back as well as some new blood. The intensity and desire from the players to win is greater than ever. Training seasons have been not only modernised, but revolutionised. At this stage, everyone is just raring to get on the field.

IAFA: What is your main goal this season?

RC: The main goal is and always will be to win the Championship.

IAFA: The EBC is now the premier league of Flag Football in Ireland. How did you approach this new season knowing you were going to compete against the best in teams in the country?

RC: Every training session, our Offence comes up against the best Defence in 

blackboard-mavericks

the country and our Defence comes up against the best Offence in country. I firmly believe that we are the best team in the league and come November 2nd, we’ll have proven that.

IAFA: Based on the EBC 2018 season, which of the other EBC 2019 teams do you think will give your team the biggest challenge this season?

RC: That’s an interesting question to ask. We’ve competed against and beat most of this seasons schedule before. The Edenderry Eagles will be an interesting team to come up against. We didn’t get the opportunity to play them last year but they got to the playoff and competed in the Jacksonville Jaguars 7’s tournament, so there must be something there. Aside from that, whoever we’ll meet in the final.

IAFA: What would make your team have the edge over your other EBC competitors?

RC: Our commitment towards excellence. Everyone is striving to be the best player and teammate they can be. We’ve established a culture where everyone is working for each other and for the common goal. We had genuine athletes with high levels of footballing intelligence. A quarterback who can throw end-zone to end-zone. Receivers who will win contested balls time and time again even in double coverage. A blitzer who will be in on quarterbacks in less than 2.5 seconds. Defensive backs who know what opposition players are going to do before they even know themselves.

IAFA: Who are your players to watch?

RC: Everyone. To select just a few would be a great disservice to the rest of the team. If you take your eyes off one player, they will burn you.

IAFA: The International Federation of American Football, governing body for everything American football internationally, are increasing their focus on making flag football a bigger part of growing American Football on all continents, and therefore IFAF are spending more time and effort in international events and possibly creating a “champions league” of flag football. Would this be something your club would look forward to if you were to be champions this season?

RC: Firstly, when we are champions this season. Absolutely! The opportunity to compete against and beat teams from around the world would be incredible. We’ve developed a style of play that is unrivalled and unique to ourselves. From what I’ve viewed on the international scene, I haven’t seen a team that could match us either. It would be another title that we’re more than happy to take home.

IAFA: With the increased emphasis on having more women involved in playing or managing sport, what are you doing to recruit more female members into your club?

RC: Increasing female participation in the sport is something that the club is committed to. Over the course of the preseason we had five female players. However, unfortunately due to work and other commitments we’re currently down to two. Really, there needs to be a multitude of things done which we are working on. This season we want to highlight the talented female players we have. By showcasing their talents, we would hope that they will help garner the interest of others to participate in the sport. Many of the players are actively trying to encourage the women in their lives to join our American footballing community. We’ve also been in contact with a number of female influencers in the region and are hoping to work closely with them in the future to help boost the profile of the sport.

IAFA: With the newly revamped National Programme kicking off for Flag Football this year, will your focus be a little different than just winning the season this time?

RC: It’s excellent that the National Programme is starting up again. However, winning will always be our main priority. When the national team comes recruiting, we know it’ll have a strong Mavericks presence.

IAFA: For any potential volunteers considering joining an American football team, what roles would you have available?

RC: A videographer and statistics analyst. I’m a big advocate of watching tape from training and games to go back over how everything went in order to see anywhere that that can be further improved. With the help of a videographer and statistics analyst, we’d be able to gather better quality videos and interpret more clearly the effect of each play and the opposing formations.

IAFA: What advice will you give your players before their first game?

RC: I genuinely can’t fully answer that due to the expletive laden and emotional nature of my pregame talks. However, it will generally focus on the greatness of them as a unit, how they have all the skills necessary to beat anyone and a bit of degradation about the opposition.

Belfast Trojans - IAN SHAW, HEAD COACH
EBC_Flag Football Gloves_Trojans

IAFA: Second appearance in the EBC. You were also short of playing in Emerald Bowl 5 last year. Tell us a bit about how this all sunk in and about your preparation for the upcoming EBC 2019 season?

IS: Losing in the wildcard round to a very good Edenderry side was tough to take, as is any playoff loss. It helped put a promising debut season into

perspective; we knew we were capable of making the playoffs and this season’s preparation has been geared around going further this time around.

IAFA: What are your goals for this season?

IS: The goal for the upcoming season is to build on last year’s performances and continue our progression as a team. With the talent and effort in this squad, the sky really is the limit.

IAFA: The EBC is now the premier league of Flag Football in Ireland. How did you approach this new season knowing you were going to compete against the best in teams in the country?

IS: Our schedule is definitely a step up

blackboard-trojans

from last season where we were met with a few forfeits. However, our team has improved immensely over the past 18 months. It’s not a fixture list we’ll shy away from – that’s what the EBC should be all about, the best competing against the best.

IAFA: Based on last season records, which of the other EBC 2019 teams do you think will give your team the biggest challenge this season?

IS: Louth Mavericks and UCC are both talented teams with a point to prove having narrowly missed out on Emerald Bowl 5 and playoff respectively. We had the opportunity to see UCD and Dublin Bay Raptors at a game-day last season and they looked dynamic and disciplined enough to give any team problems.

IAFA: What would make your team have the edge over your other EBC competitors?

IS: I can’t really speak for other programmes, but I know our coaching staff and off-field team are among the most committed and determined that I’ve ever had a chance to work alongside.

IAFA: Who are your players to watch?

IS: We have a lot of talented players on both sides of the ball. We are blessed to have Alex Kusmirek among our ranks, who is widely regarded as one of the best defensive backs in the country – particularly given his recent success as a Shamrock Bowl winner and with the Irish Wolfhounds.

IAFA: The International Federation of American Football, governing body for everything American football internationally, are increasing their focus on making flag football a bigger part of growing American Football on all continents, and therefore IFAF are spending more time and effort in international events and possibly creating a “champions league” of flag football. Would this be something your club would look forward to if you were to be champions this season?

IS: That’s a bridge we’ll cross when we get to it. Our focus has to be on winning the Bowl before anything that comes after it. That said, I have always been a big fan of the various “Champions Bowls” played across the continent as a way of growing the sport internationally.

IAFA: With the increased emphasis on having more women involved in playing or managing sport, what are you doing to recruit more female members into your club?

IS: We’re arranging some upcoming trial days for female players – keep an eye out on social media! This season has also seen the first ever female Trojan captain in Helen Smyth who is returning after an exciting rookie season. We have also added some new female players to our Trojans 2ndssquad.

IAFA: With the newly revamped National programme kicking off for Flag Football this year, will your focus be a little different than just winning the season this time?

IS: Our players’ focus will be on performing to the best of their ability on a game by game basis. That’s how they’ll be selected for the national team. I’m looking forward to seeing the revamped National Team and think it’s exactly what the sport needs in order to progress to that next level.

IAFA: For any potential volunteers considering joining an American football team, what roles would you have available?

IS: A little bit of anything and everything! Stats takers on gamedays, referees, film crew for recording sessions or even coaching roles within our squads. The only requirement is a love of the game.

IAFA: What advice will you give your team before their first game?

IS: Remember what brought us this far. This is our chance to do something special.

MEATH BULLDOGS - Gytis Stankevicius, Team Manager
EBC_Flag Football Gloves_Bulldogs

IAFA: Second appearance in the EBC. You were also short of making the playoff last year. Tell us a bit about how this all sunk in and about your preparation for the upcoming EBC 2019 season?

GS: Not going to lie, last season we were underprepared. Flag was seen as something to bridge the gap between

the kitted football seasons. As such we struggled to maintain a consistent squad of players with dedicated assignments and well drilled out plays. A lot of things had to be adjusted to on the fly and at times this really showed.

IAFA: What are your goals for this season?

GS: This season we hope to lay the foundation for taking the Bulldogs flag football out of the contact team’s shadow. Grow the squad and define a more rigid and robust structure for the team. We are very competitive in nature so winning is always an objective but we’re prioritising establishing a future for the team.

IAFA: The EBC is now the premier league of Flag Football in Ireland. How did you approach this new season knowing you were going to compete against the best teams in the country?

GS: We believe the challenge will only make us a better team. We’ve worked hard both on the strategy as well as the

blackboard-bulldogs

physical aspects of the game and are keen to see what the other teams can do. We know our strengths, but we will not miss out on the opportunity to learn an integrate effective styles of play from any opponent.

IAFA: Based on last season records, which of the other EBC 2019 teams do you think will give your team the biggest challenge this season?

GS: It is really difficult to say, both Trinity College and West Meath Minotaurs were exceedingly tough opponents. I’m sure each and every team on the roster whether competing again or just starting up have been busy preparing and improving so it is hard to call who will be team to watch this year.

IAFA: What would make your team have the edge over your other EBC competitors?

GS: Again, it would be tough to decide as we haven’t yet seen what the other teams have to offer. But I believe we have a versatile squad of talented players able to play on multiple positions both sides of the ball.

IAFA: Who are your players to watch?

GS: We have made some changes to the line-up since last year with our QB stepping away from the game, Andy Lynch will be filling that position so we’re looking forward to seeing how he holds up. Matthew Clarke and Darragh Hogan have proven themselves as capable receivers on the kitted team so you should keep an eye out for them as well.

IAFA: The International Federation of American Football, governing body for everything American football internationally, are increasing their focus on making flag football a bigger part of growing American Football on all continents, and therefore IFAF are spending more time and effort in international events and possibly creating a “champions league” of flag football. Would this be something your club would look forward to if you were to be champions this season?

GS: Absolutely. Not sure what more to say other than that we would be thrilled to take part in a higher level competition.

IAFA: With the increased emphasis on having more women involved in playing or managing sport, what are you doing to recruit more female members into your club?

GS: Friends and family of the club for the moment. But we do have plans to reach out to clubs and schools to focus our recruitment drives towards female players.

IAFA: With the newly revamped National programme kicking off for Flag Football this year, will your focus be a little different than just winning the season this time?

GS: We are focusing on growing the team and establishing a stronger core of fundamentals.

IAFA: For any potential volunteers considering joining an American football team, what roles would you have available?

GS: We have few roles that we would like to fill such as director of social media and recruitment officer.

IAFA: What advice will you give your team before their first game?

GS: Discipline on both sides of the ball. Follow your assignment. Win or lose as a team.

What We Learned from GBC’s Week 1 Games

The set – Portadown, People’s Park – mostly sunny with a comfortable 17°C.

The teams: Belfast Trojans 2nd, Belfast Razorbacks, Cork City Outlaws, Craigavon Cowboys, Downpatrick Saints, Galway Warriors, Louth Mavericks 2nd, South Dublin Panthers, and West Dublin Rhinos.

Four teams, the Cowboys, Outlaws, Panthers and Razorbacks have scored more than average of 35 points per game, with the Razorbacks scoring the most points on the day with a 64-28 win over the Warriors.

Cowboys, Panthers, Razorbacks and Mavericks are all 2-0 to kick off their season with the Cowboys topping the table with a better point difference.

Four teams had a tough start, Warriors, Saints, Rhinos and Trojans but will have a chance to get back into it on October 5th in Castleknock.

All in all, a good kick off for the inaugural season of the Glas Bowl Conference. It will be interesting to see how the top four teams will fair when playing against each other and who will come on top. It would also be good to see if the the 0-2 teams can pull off a come back and make the playoff by season-end. The top six teams at the end of week 4 will be eligible for a playoff birth.

Next up – week 2 games in Castleknock on the 5th of October.

Current Standings

Belfast Razorbacks
Belfast Razorbacks
Belfast Trojans Dev
Belfast Trojans Dev
Cork City Outlaws
Cork City Outlaws
Craigavon Cowboys 2nd
Craigavon Cowboys 2nd
Downpatrick Saints
Downpatrick Saints
Galway Warriors
Galway Warriors
Louth Mavericks 2nd
Louth Mavericks 2nd
South Dublin Panthers
[ninja_tables id="15311"]

National Flag Football Programme Gets a Reboot

While the Irish Wolfhounds senior team are travelling for a friendly game against Belgium this weekend and with the Flag Football 2019 seasons kicking off today, we thought it be appropriate to announce the reboot of the National Flag Football programme under the Wolfhounds’ banner.

The Irish National Flag Football programme has had a few spells over the years, with most recent tenures seeing the Irish team travelling to Italy in 2013 to compete in the European championship and in 2016 hosting a few European teams for a friendly tournament.

Team Ireland Flag Football playing at European Championships in Italy (2013)

Flag Football National Team Gets Ready for International Friendly Event

IAFA has invested a lot of time and personnel in making the National programme a very important factor in the growth of American Football in Ireland and a key element in the development of a competitive national programme. 

To add to that, Flag Football has also been growing organically over the years and is now reaching a wider population making the sport more than just an entertaining passtime but rather a very competitive platform to be part of. IAFA Flag Football officially started over 5 years ago and has seen it pool of teams growing from 8 competing in one league to what is now 25 teams across two leagues.

The  International Federation of American Football (IFAF) is also actively ramping up its initiatives to make Flag Football an international and competitive sports with of these initiative beeing the most recent IFAF European Championships which took place just last week in Israel ans seeing the Danish men’s team and the Spanish women’s team taking their respective trophies.

Finally, and to add to the mix, the Federation of Irish Sport is running it 20×20 campaign to create a cultural shift in our perception of girls and women in sport which will be achieved by increasing visibility of women’s sport.

All that been said, it is our pleasure to announce the rebooting of the Irish National Flag Football programme, or most commonly know as Irish Wolfhounds Flag Football, starting today and this time we will be catering for both an all-female flag football national team alongside an all-male national flag football team. Our objective is to enter both teams in the 2021 European Flag Football Championship and spendng the next 24 months building up two very competitive rosters to take on the best in Europe in 2020 and 2021.

IAFA will soon be announcing the coaching staff who will take on the challenge but the first step will primarly be taking place during the two 2019 running flag football seasons where players (male and female) will scouted to build up a potential list of male and female players to train in 2020. This will be followed by a sets of try outs taking place in early 2020. Both men’s and women’s team will be opened to anyone 16 years and upward.

Whatch this space for further exiting updates on the Wolfhounds Flag Football.

GBC 2019 Week 1 Preview

IAFA Flag Football inaugural Glas Bowl Conference is about to kick off this Saturday. We thought we’d spend the next few weeks introducing all thirteen teams competing for a place in the playoff, a chance to win bowl and a shot at being promoted to the EBC for the 2020 season. That being said, all thirteen teams are either brand new teams or returning teams in need of development to be more competitive.

The GBC 2019 season will kick off with nine teams and nine games in the People’s Park, Portadown. You can find all fixtures from this page Flag Football | GBC. The nine teams are the Belfast Razorbacks, Belfast Trojans 2nd, Cork City Outlaws, Craigavon Cowboys 2nd,  Downpatrick Saints, Galway Warriors, Louth Mavericks 2nd, South Dublin Panthers, West Dublin Rhinos.

This week, we had the pleasure to chat with team managers and head coaches from three of the teams playing this Saturday. We talked to Robert McCann, head coach of the South Dublin Panthers; Niall Quinn, team manager of the Craigavon Cowboys 2nd team, and Aaron Buckley, team manager of the Cork City Outlaws.

SOUTH DUBLIN PANTHERS - Robert McCann, HEAD COACH
GBC_Flag Football Gloves_Panthers

IAFA: You previously competed in the EBC, which is now the premier league of flag football in Ireland, unfortunately your team did not make the cut and have to compete in the newly formed and lower GBC league. How did you take to the news?

RMC: We see it more as an opportunity to build for the future. We have a lot of new players in the squad

and the GBC, which we believe will be just as competitive, is the perfect competition for them to learn and grow.

IAFA: This is the 3rd season your flag team is now competing for, how did you approach your pre-season preparation?

RMC: We have a lot of young guys who have been with the team since the start. We’ve built this year’s team around them and our preparation has been to cater to their strengths. Training has been intense, competitive and fun.

IAFA: What are your goals for the season?

RMC: Here at the Panthers, our flag program is to build for the future, introduce athletes from other sporting backgrounds to American Football, compete and most importantly have fun doing it. Coming off the back of a

blackboard-panthers

historic kitted season, we have built a strong flag team to go out and compete this year. Our goal is to challenge for the division and earn promotion to the EBC.

IAFA: Who are your players to watch?

RMC: We are a team and every player is an important part of it. Certainly for me the two youngest members of the team, Jack Doyle and Stephen Gillis are two guys who have a bright future in Irish American Football.

IAFA: What other team do you think will provide your biggest challenge?

RMC: The only team we have played before as an organisation is the West Dublin Rhinos so we are looking forward to that match up vs our neighbours. The rest of the league is an unknown right now. We look forward to seeing what they have.

IAFA: Since most teams in the GBC are new or in development, what would you can have your team have the edge over other teams in the GBC?

RMC: Our experience playing some of the top flag football teams in the country is great to have under our belts but we still got to do our jobs and play panthers football. We’re not taking any game for granted.

IAFA: With the newly revived National Flag Football programme kicking off this month, will your focus be a little different than just winning the season?

RMC: I believe we have a team of athletes that can compete at international level. My job is to prepare them for our season, keep them focused and win our games. If they can get noticed by the program and get a call up, that is a bonus. They will earn it in season.

IAFA: Alongside the 20×20 campaign to increase female participation in all sports, IAFA have very much emphasised on having more female involved in playing or managing our sport. How are you considering recruiting more female members for your club?

RMC: We are all about inclusiveness but it’s been tough retaining female members this season. Like with a lot of people, men and women that started training with us at the start of the season, there’s been a couple of clashes with other sports and activities that they are already involved in and they haven’t been able to continue with us. We as a club need to focus more on recruiting women into the sport. We are looking into linking in with the local rugby clubs and running a female only team in 2020.

IAFA: For any potential volunteers considering being involved in American Football, what roles would you have available?

RMC: Our Flag Football programme is on the lookout for one or two assistant. They wouldn’t need any experience to start. It would be great to have a helping hand setting up practices and managing the team. Let the players play and the coaches coach.

IAFA: With the season kicking off this weekend, what last advice will you give your team before their first game?

RMC: There’s incredible talent and chemistry in this team. Things will go our way and some things won’t, just be there for your team mates, enjoy every moment and the w is yours for the taken.

CRAIGAVON COWBOYS 2ND - Niall Quinn, Team Manager
GBC_Flag Football Gloves_Cowboys

IAFA: Your club already has a flag football team competing in the EBC, you have decided to enter a 2nd team in the new GBC league. What is your objective behind this?

NQ: Main goals for the GBC team is to give new members an opportunity to play as much as possible on the field. Our team motto is FUN. We want our

team to have fun playing flag. We try not to take it too serious to make it more enjoyable. Of course we want to win but it’s about building a team bond.

IAFA: Since most teams in the GBC are new or in development, what would make your team have the edge over other teams in the GBC?

NQ: Our experience from playing in the Champions bowl (European competition) and some of the members form last years championship winning team will have a wise eye on the game. Hoping it pays off and new members learn from their experience.

IAFA: What of the other GBC teams do you think will give your team the biggest challenge this season?

NQ: I think all the other teams will give us a good game. We are hoping for a few wins. The biggest challenges will be the Mavericks and Trojans I would think but you never know until the final whistle.

blackboard-cowboys

IAFA: Who are your players to watch?

NQ: Our championship winning Quaterback from last year, Ben Fallon, will be heading up our GBC team he will be leading the offence. New team member Neil Maxwell will be quite the eye opener as well as a few un suspecting guys that will be the back bone to our Defence like Jason Duddy

IAFA: With the newly revived National Flag Football programme kicking off this month, will your focus be a little different than just winning the season?

NQ: Yes for the Cowboys it’s about building a team win or loose. Having fun, enjoying the game and learning plays and techniques so that next year they can progress to the A team in EBC.

IAFA: Alongside the 20×20 campaign to increase female participation in all sports, IAFA have very much emphasised on having more female involved in playing or managing our sport. How are you considering recruiting more female members for your club?

NQ: Last year we ran a womens only day wish attracted a good interest. I think this year we will be focusing on Personal trainers and a few other areas to get the word out that this new sport can be very rewarding and woman can be as involved as the men. We have a few plans to run woman only days throughout this season and invite them down to watch a few games.

IAFA: For any potential volunteers considering being involved in American Football, what roles would you have available?

NQ:There is always a need for non playing members to help out with jobs like pitch preparation, video work, and running games and training sessions. Volunteers are a big help to run the back ground work and let the playing team focus on preparing for games.

IAFA: With the season kicking off this weekend, what last advice will you give your team before their first game?

NQ: Have fun! Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If your struggling with anything let us know.

CORK CITY OUTLAWS - AARON BUCKLEY, Team Manager
GBC_Flag Football Gloves_Outlaws

IAFA: Inaugural season for your team, tell us a bit about how your team came to be?

AB: We were formed from the ashes of another team last year with a new coach and several new additions

IAFA: What are your goals for the season?

AB: We are going to try and win the league! But as we don’t know what the quality of teams we will face yet, we will first be aiming to reach the playoff and take it from there.

IAFA: How has your team prepared for the upcoming season?

AB: Not as well as we would have liked! As a lot of us in are married with kids and all the time restraints which come with that. However we have trained most of the time twice a week so our basics should hopefully be up to scratch for when the season kicks off.

IAFA: Who are your players to watch?

AB:Coach and QB Richie Otto has a fast and accurate arm. Also keep an eye out for our new running back Kadar Gyula and his turn of pace.

IAFA: What other team do you think will give you your biggest challenge this season?

blackboard-outlaws

AB: Simply the teams with the most experience, which usually are the flag football teams affiliated with kitted clubs or EBC clubs who have also entered a seconds team (usually long standing flag football organisations).

IAFA: Since most teams in the GBC are new or in development, what would make your team have the edge over other teams in the GBC?

AB: I don’t think we will have too much of an edge to be honest. Our average age is approaching 40 so any advantage we have in experience is counterbalanced by our relative lack of athleticism!

IAFA: What will assure your team meets your goal to reach the playoff?

AB: Staying calm and focused in our upcoming games and doing a hell of a lot more training in the next few months

IAFA: Alongside the 20×20 campaign to increase female participation in all sports, IAFA have very much emphasised on having more female involved in playing or managing our sport. How are you considering recruiting more female members for your club?

AB: Mainly by word of mouth we have been trying to encourage female friends and family to start playing. On our posters and social media we will be making it clear we are open to females too

IAFA: With the newly revived National Flag Football programme kicking off this month, will your focus be a little different than just winning the season?

AB: As a team not really to be honest. We do have a few players with the potential to make the step up but our priorities will be to win each game as they come. If we do that then it will naturally provide the platform for some of our players to shine

IAFA: For any potential volunteers in the Cork area considering joining an American football team, what roles would you have available?

AB: We are always looking to recruit and welcome everyone with open arms. Any volunteer or potential player can find the Outlaws on social media and for sure we will find a way to include them

IAFA: What advice will you give your team before their first game?

AB: Specifically that’s up to the coach on game day. But certainly some advice I would expect us all to heed to would be to go out and enjoy yourselves, be respectful of the opposition and referees. Win or lose, any day you are out throwing a football around is a good day!

IAFA Flag Football Draft Blitz August 17th

IAFA is welcoming all individuals aged 18+ interested in Flag Football to take park in our one day event, Draft Blitz on the 17th August in Gormanston Park, Co. Meath. This is an exciting tournament were everyone arriving on the day will be entered into a draft to form teams to compete on the day. No established teams will be taking part in the event and all team will be picked in a draft style from a list of QB, offensive and defensive players on the day, so its sure to be a fun time for all. All equipment will be provided on the day, all you need is to wear appropriate clothing for the sport, i.e. pocket-less shorts/runners. Gum shields are not required but highly recommended. Light refreshments will be provided on the day, but please bring water and a lunch to stay fuelled and hydrated on the day.

By registering for this event, all participants agree to be bound by the rules and governing documents of the Irish American Football Association which can be found on this website under Governenance/Resources

If you would like further information please contact us via our contact form and make sure to select “Flag Football” as department.

Registration is limited to 120 individual players (with possible increase based on demand)

The deadline to register is August 10th 11pm.

Just click on the button below to book your place.

Register Here
Draft-Blitz-4

Flag Football Leagues Fixtures Live

Official fixtures for the upcoming IAFA Flag Football Emerald Bowl Conference (EBC) and the Glas (as in Irish for green) Bowl Conference (GBC) seasons are now live.

Little fact – this is the most flag football teams (25) competing in an organised league setting at the same time on the island, ever!!
 
The EBC is now entering its sixth season. It is the premier league of flag football in Ireland, with the top twelve flag football teams on the island to compete for the national championship or Emerald Bowl VI – currently held by the two-time champions Craigavon Cowboys. This season promises to be very competitive.
 
 
Its sister league, the GBC, will kick off its inaugural season on the 7th of September. The GBC is a bit like the championship is to the premier league in soccer. This season will see thirteen teams,  either new or returning, who will have a shot at the championship. Even though the level of game will be lower than the EBC, we would not be surprised to see some great games and competition taking place.
 
 
Both leagues will see the conclusion of their respective season with playoff and bowl games – Emerald Bowl VI and Glas Bowl I – taking place on the same day and at the same venue that is the National Sports Campus on the 2nd of November. The top 6 GBC teams and the top 6 EBC teams will battle it out for a shot at the championship.
 
With the creation of a new league we are also introducing a promotion/relegation scheme between EBC and GBC. In short, one EBC team will be relegated to the GBC and one GBC team will be promoted to the EBC. We also have a playoff game between the 2nd GBC seed and the 11th EBC seed to determine another possible set of relegation/promotion between the two leagues. All in all, two teams could go up and two teams could go down making the competition really interesting.
This will also ensure a fairly levelled EBC league in the long-run and a reason to improve and compete for all GBC teams.
 

You can find all fixtures under Flag Football/Leagues Details or click on the images below.

 
 

Maynooth Hurricanes to Host First Flag Blitz

The Maynooth University Hurricanes will be hosting the first of several IAFA Flag Football Blitz tournaments this year. Blitzes are for all who are dying to give a go at flag football and also for all those who need to dust off their flag skills before EBC19 and GBC19 kick off in the autumn. This is a mixed tournament and is opened to anyone and their friends and must 18 years old and upwards.

Entry is €10 per team payable on the day
8 teams with a minimum of 2 games guaranteed.

To register just log (or register) onto the IAFA GoMembership portal and look for “Events & Courses”.

https://iafa.azolve.com

Because this is an IAFA Flag Football event all players must be registered (if not already a registered member of IAFA) via the IAFA GoMembership portal. Players can sign up to a Trial Membership allowing every one registered to play and train under IAFA.

Members with current membership options such as SBC/IAFL 1&2 do not need to purchase a trial membership to participate in the Blitz

You will also need the use the official IAFA belts and flags which you can purchase from our partner Football America UK Ltd on their website.

All games rules can also be found on our website www.americanfootball.ie

 

IAFA Flag Football partners with Football America UK

All teams competing any IAFA sponsored events (leagues and tournaments) need to field their players with the official IAFA belt and flags. IAFA Flag Football official flags and flag belts are the Flag-A-Tag Sonic Boom version (picture below)

IAFA Flag Football have partnered with Football America UK Ltd to give all IAFA flag football teams access to a dedicated team pricing when registering an online account on their website. This includes great discounts on footballs, flag football equipment, gloves, cleats and more which will be applied automatically when ordering goods online.

You can read all about how this all works at www.footballamerica.co.uk/vipteam

Football America UK also have what you need when it comes to Flag-A-Tag Sonic Boom belts and flags – bit.ly/FAUK_Flags. They have 5 colours to pick from and their flag belts come in two sizes, 42″ (for the young and fit) and 52″ for everyone else with a ‘big personality’).

If you wish to avail of their offer, please have your team manager follow these 3 simple steps:

  1. Register your team for the IAFA Flag Football 2019 season at bit.ly/TeamRegFlag19
  2. Create your account on Football America UK at bit.ly/FAUK_Register
  3. Email the Director of Flag Football (here) who will then forward you the referral code

If you are a new team or wish to upgrade your current team outfit to look the part, Football America UK also offer a great custom teamwear service for a very good price called Stash Packs. bit.ly/FAUK_SlashPAcks

Football America UK are committed to providing UK and European American Football teams and individuals, with the best service and products they desire, with experienced and knowledgeable staff on hand if required. They specialise in all forms of Football Equipment not just helmets and shoulder pads.

 

Flag Football 2019 Team Registration Open

Team Registration for IAFA Flag Football 2019  is now open. The form can be found here.

IAFA Flag Football will be running two mixed leagues this season. The Emerald Bowl Conference (EBC) and the Glas (Green) Bowl Conference (GBC).

The EBC has now become the premier league for Flag Football in Ireland, and the 2019 season will see the top 12 teams from EBC18 compete for the national championship.

The GBC is a new league created for new teams wanting to give a go at Flag Football and also for returning teams needing a bit of TLC to hopefully reach the EBC in a future season.

We will also allow for clubs to field two teams if their numbers are consequent enough to do so. If a club has already a team in the EBC, then the second team will be automatically entered in the GBC. If this is the club’s first time playing Flag Football, then both their teams will be competing in the GBC. As the end of the season, only one of the two teams will be allowed in the EBC (if in a position to do so) with the weaker team forfeiting any promotion to the next team in the overall standings.

As it stands and based on EBC18 these are the 12 teams to enter EBC19:

1. Craigavon Cowboys 2. Louth Mavericks
3. Trinity College Dublin 4. Edenderry Eagles
5. Belfast Knights 6. Belfast Trojans
7. UCC 8. Dublin Bay Raptors
9. UCD 10. Westmeath Minotaurs
11. UL Vikings 12. Dublin Rebels

Registration for EBC teams closes on April 15th.
Registration for all others teams closes on April 30th.

More details on rules for both leagues to follow.

IAFA Level 0 Coaching Course – May 18th

Starting this year, all flag football teams must have at least one IAFA Level 0 certified coach to be eligible to compete in the EBC.

IAFA Coaching Department will be to hosting one Level 0 coaching course on the 18th of May at the NSC, Dublin.

This course is primarily geared towards EBC teams coaches (male and female) who do not already have a Level 0 certified coach but is also opened to GBC teams and Kitted teams if spaces allow.

All candidates need to first create an account with IAFA GoMembership portal here.

Once signed in, go to the events & course page and select the course you wish to attend.

If you have any questions please contact us here.

IAFA Flag Football 2019 Leagues

IAFA Flag Football has been steadily growing over the past five years. While original teams, like the two-time national champions Craigavon Cowboys or one-timers Westmeath Minotaurs or Edenderry Eagles, are still very much within the tops teams in the nation, some teams have come and gone partially due to the obvious effects an increased level and quality of the game have had on the hunger and commitment for each team to compete in the EBC each year. While IAFA considers Flag Football as a key element in the overall growth of American Football in Ireland, it has become more difficult for new entrants to compete against more experienced teams and hoping to win the title of champions. So with this in mind and in order to make Flag Football fairer but still very much competitive for all we will be applying the following changes for the 2019 season.

  • We created a new league called the Glas Bowl Conference for new teams and teams in needs of development.
  • EBC will limit the number of teams participating to 12 starting with the top 12 teams from EBC 2018
  • Clubs will be allowed to field a maximum of two teams in a season if their numbers requires it but under a few conditions:
    1. Both teams cannot compete in the EBC during the same season
    2. Both teams can compete in the GBC during the same season
    3. Potential promotion/relegation can affect which team plays in the EBC/GBC the following season
  • Both leagues will be linked by a promotion/relegation scheme as such:
    1. EBC bottom team will be automatically relegated to the GBC for the following season
    2. GBC top team will be automatically promoted to the EBC except if their club already has a team entered in the EBC the following season at which point the GBC team will automatically forfeit progression to the next team in line
    3. EBC second last team will play against GBC second best team for a place in the EBC (losing team will either relegated or promoted)
  • The potential 12 teams in questions are:
    Craigavon Cowboys (1)Louth Mavericks (2)
    Trinity College Dublin (3)Edenderry Eagles (4)
    Belfast Knights (5)Belfast Trojans (6)
    UCC (7)Dublin Bay Raptors (8)
    UCD (9)Westmeath Minotaurs (10)
    UL Vikings (11)Dublin Rebels (12)
  • Both leagues will run in parallel and are both mixed leagues for all players 16 years old and up (details for registration and rules to follow)
  • All game-days for both EBC and GBC will see nine or more teams compete in the one venue in order alleviate heavy schedule and better manage possible forfeits or postponed games
  • All EBC teams must have at one Sport Ireland and IAFA certified level 0 coach to be eligible to compete in EBC 2019. Two IAFA level 0 coaching courses will scheduled for Flag Football coaches only in the spring (Dates and registration details to follow)

IAFA Glas Bowl Conference

This year will see the inaugural season of the newly established IAFA Glas Bowl Conference or GBC league.

While the Emerald Bowl Conference (EBC) is now tailored for the top 12 teams in Ireland to compete for the national championship, the GBC has been especially created for brand new teams wanting to give a go at Flag Football and also for returning teams needing a bit of TLC to hopefully reach the EBC in a future season.

The core goal of the GBC is to foster a vision of growth and learning of Flag Football and ultimately American Football, without the daunting pressure to compete against seasoned and experienced teams while still being competitive.

The season will run like its sister league. This is a mixed leagues for players 16 years old and upward. The format will see several teams meeting in one venue and play a set of games on the same day.

Although all EBC teams now must have a certified coach to compete, GBC teams do not. The only requirements is for all players to be registered with IAFA and for all teams to have the proper playing equipment.

The season will kick off during the second half of August to finish the last week of October.

GBC teams will have the chance to be promoted to the EBC at the end of the season while some EBC teams will also be relegated to the GBC ensuring the competitive legitimacy of both leagues in the long run.

If you have any questions as to what the requirements are just contact us through our online form here.

Looking forward to see you compete in the GBC in the near future.

Team registration will open very soon. Stay tuned.

 

IAFA Flag Football in 2019

 

 

 

 

 

IAFA Flag Football is now 5 years old this month and the interest keeps on growing. To mark the occasion we thought we’d let you know what 2019 is going to be like for IAFA Flag

Since the birth of the Emerald Bowl Conference (EBC) in 2014, teams have come and gone but the level of the game as only be raised every year making it difficult for new entrants to compete against more experienced teams and hoping to win the championship. So in order to make IAFA Flag more competitive and fairer for all we will be kicking off EBC’s 6th season with a few twists.

  • For the first time EBC will limit the number of teams participating to 12 and to start things off, EBC 2019 will be composed of the top 12 teams from EBC 2018. This also created the need for a new league for developing teams and new entrants named the Glas (Green) Bowl Conference or GBC.
  • Both leagues will be linked with a promotion/relegation scheme which will allow teams who have progressed enough to be able to compete against the best teams in the country.
  • Both leagues will run in parallel and are both mixed leagues for all players 16 years old and up. (details for registration and rules to follow).
  • All game-days for both EBC and GBC will see nine or more teams compete in the one venue in order alleviate heavy schedule and better manage possible forfeits or postponed games
  • We are also introducing another change to raise the level of competitiveness in the EBC. All EBC teams now must have at least one certified coach to be eligible to play in EBC 2019. Two IAFA level 0 coaching courses will scheduled for Flag Football coaches only in the spring (Dates and registration details to follow)

Other programmes will also be taking place this year:

  • We will open bids to host flag football blitz tournaments to be held in July and August
  • NFL Play Flag Football in School programme which will be run by NFL UK with the support of their Presenting Sponsor Subway. They are supporting schools to bring the NFL Flag programme to their school via a teacher training programme (more details to follow).
  • An inaugural Flag Football Intervarsity championship will be held in the autumn (details to follow).

We will have more detailed posts about each upcoming event in the near future so stay tuned.

 

 

IAFA Appoints New Flag Football Committee Members

Due to an ever growing interest and membership, Flag Football is becoming a key element in the growth of American Football in Ireland.
With a record number of teams and the most members involved in the Emerald Bowl Conference league in 4 years running, and it has been decided to re-vamp the Flag Football Committee (FFC) to make sure all aspects of the sport are efficiently developed and managed. The newly appointed committee members will be working with IAFA Director of Flag Football, Guillaume Poznanski, reporting to the Board of IAFA.

The FFC will be an essential part of ensuring that IAFA 2019 strategic plan for Flag Football in Ireland are successfully implemented. Some of the key elements of the plan the FFC will be working on are (and this is by no means an exhaustive list):

  • Flag Football Competition programmes (EBC, New League (TBA), Intervarsities, Tournaments)
  • Flag 4 School (F4S)
  • Women in Sport
  • Flag Football Coaching
  • Flag Football Officiating

IAFA are pleased to announce the appointments of the following to serve as members of the Flag Football Committee:

Ethan Fitzsimons, who was invaluable as IAFA Administrator, has accepted to take on the role of IAFA Assistant Director of Flag Football and will be a great asset to the FFC working closely with the Director of Flag Football.

Robbie Caldwell from the Louth Mavericks. Robbie has played for the Louth Mavericks for 7 years (the Dundalk Mavericks then). Robbie has played as running back mainly, but stepped in different positions and was part of the Mavericks squad who won the IAFA League 1 in 2017. He has played Flag Football for two years and is now the Mavericks Flag Football team head coach. Robbie is also a strong follower of the Washington Redskins.
Dave Healy from UCC Raiders/Cork Admirals. Dave is entering his third season of football. He plays defensive back for the Cork Admirals and won Shamrock Bowl 32 as defensive captain and also helped coach the Cork Admirals Youth team to victory in 2018. Dave was called onto the Irish Wolfhounds squad for their win against the Belgian Barbarians and has also founded the UCC Raiders Flag Football club two years ago. He is a proud Green Bay Packers fan.
Daniel Shaw from the Belfast Trojans. Daniel has been involved in American Football in Ireland since he was 16. Daniel coached the Ulster Elks for two seasons and is now the team manager of the Belfast Trojans Flag Football team and is also involved in the kitted setup. Daniel is an avid Dallas Cowboys fan.
Robbie Tighe from the Edenderry Eagles/Cill Dara Crusaders. Robbie was introduced to American Football with the Edenderry Eagles in 2015 and hasn't looked back since. He won Emerald Bowl 4 with the Eagles in 2017. He has experience playing and managing in both kitted and Flag Football. He has no real NFL team allegiance but has a soft spot for the Atlanta Falcons.
Todd Zboyan from the Dublin Bay Raptors. Todd is originally from Seattle (USA) and has over 25 years experience in kitted and Flag Football (in the US and Ireland) and has played for the Dublin Vipers who won the Emerald Bowl 3 in 2017. Todd is currently the head coach of the Dublin Bay Raptors and is also a massive Seahawks fan.

Emerald Bowl Conference is back!

The IAFA Flag Football Emerald Bowl Conference is back!

Team registration opens today!

The season format will change a little from previous ones.

Games will be played from September 1st through to December 1st with the playoffs and Emerald Bowl V games on December 1st.

The season will run with a maximum of 20 teams who will be divided across 4 geographical divisions.

Each team will play 10 games – 8 divisional games and 2 interdivisional games.

All teams must submit the names of their Team Manager and Head Coach, with at least one of them being a non-playing member.

Teams a can have a maximum of 30 mixed players on their overall roster, with a maximum of 20 players on game day.

Games will run, as previously done, on a blitz format with several teams meeting at the one venue. Continue reading “Emerald Bowl Conference is back!” →

Flag Football 2017/18 Tournaments’ hosts announced

We are please to announce the hosts for all four upcoming FFI 2017/18 tournaments.

  • October 28 2017 – South Dublin Panthers, Westmanstown
  • November 25 2017 – Maynooth University Hurricanes, Maynooth
  • January 27 2018 – Louth Mavericks, Dundalk
  • February 24 2018 – UCC Flag Football, Cork

We also would like to welcome new comers UCC Raiders, Louth Mavericks AFC, Maynooth University Hurricanes and the Dublin Bay Raptors.

Team and Individual registrations are open:
Individual registration: bit.ly/FFI18INDREG
Team registration: bit.ly/FFI18REG

FFI 2017/18 EVENTS REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

FFI 2017/18 Events Teams and Players registrations now open.

To celebrate we are giving away a €50 discount to all teams signing up for an “Team Registration for all FFI 2017/18 Tournaments” by using the discount code EARLYBIRD and this for only two weeks (offer ends 15/9/17) – so register early!

TEAM REGISTRATION ENDS OCTOBER 15TH 2017.

Quick reminder all players, managers, coaches or team staff must register individually as a member of IAFA (€5) regardless of the team or event they enter with/in.

Tournaments will take place 28/10/17, 25/11/17, 27/01/18 and 24/02/18.
If you wish to host a tournament email an official bid to info@flagfootballireland.ie by September 25th 2017.
All teams selected to host will see their 2017/18 entry fees (€150) waived off.

Individual regsitration: bit.ly/FFI18INDREG
Team registration: bit.ly/FFI18REG

If you have any questions contact us here.

Flag Football Updates

We are fresh off Emerald Bowl IV but it’s not too early for some Flag Football updates.

The league as been running full steam for the past four seasons so in order to properly organise next season and to cover all aspects required to run and grow the sport successfully in Ireland, it has been decided to hold off the next Emerald Bowl season until August 2018. With that being said, we are not going to leave you hanging for a full year.

We will instead be running a series of one-day tournaments between October 2017 and February 2018. Each tournament will be run under the direction of the Flag Football committee and will be open for bids to host them.

The tournaments will be held on October 28th, November 25th, January 27th and February 24th. Bids will be open for submission from August 28th. If you wish to host a tournament email an official bid to info@flagfootballireland.ie by September 25th. Any successful bid will see the full team registration fees €150) waived off for the team/club hosting.

Fees:
Team registration fees are set to €150 for 2017/2018 which will give your team access to all tournaments. Registration will open September 1st and will close October 1st.

If you wish to participate to less that four tournaments, registration fees are set to €50 per tournament. Team registration date for each tournament will be communicated in due time.

All players must register with IAFA for 2017/2018 for all IAFA Flag Football event. Individual fees are set at €5. Registration will open September 1st.

More information will be communicated in due time on our Facebook page and on the IAFA website.

Edenderry Eagles Emerald Bowl IV Champions

Defying all odds, the Edenderry Eagles have been crowned Emerald Bowl champions with a 32-12 win over the Emerald Bowl III champions, the Dublin Vipers. With four different teams having won one Emerald Bowl title each, we can affirm there are currently no dominant team in EBC. Well done to the Edenderry Eagles, Emerald Bowl IV and new National champions.

Emerald Bowl IV Playoffs & Bowl Games Preview

This is it! On Saturday, the next Irish National Flag Football champions will be crowned as the Emerald Bowl IV season comes to a close. 28 games at 4 different locations starting in April has given us 4 playoffs teams to this point, with only 2 wins standing in their way to the trophy. The 4 teams have had 3 weeks to prepare for Saturday’s final showdown at Gormanston Park, Co Meath.

The top seeded Craigavon Cowboys will take on 4th seed Edenderry Eagles in the first semi-final, scheduled to kick off at 10.30am. The Cowboys enjoyed a near perfect season, racking up 7 wins and a draw with no losses. They boast the best net points in the league with 177 as well as the best defence, conceding 119 points over 8 games. The Cowboys offense was in a close 2nd place when it comes to offensive points scored, finishing with 296 which was 1 point behind their semi-final opponents. The Eagles finished 4th in the table, with the same points as the North Kildare Reapers. The two teams drew earlier in the season meaning that the tie breaker would go to net points, of which the Eagles had a higher net difference. It has been a mixed season for the Eagles, winning 4, drawing 1 and losing 3. However, they have a high scoring offense, who claimed a league historical record 95-6 win against the South Dublin Panthers during the regular season. Tomiwa Oyewo will be one to watch for the Eagles as he has proved invaluable on both sides of the ball, whilst the same can be said for the Cowboys Peter Loughran. Plenty of history between these two old league rivals promises this to be a great game!

The second semi-final is scheduled for 11.45am and will see the 2nd seed Westmeath Minotaurs take on the 3rd seed Dublin Vipers, defending Emerald Bowl Champions. The Minotaurs return to post season Flag Football after they missed out on Emerald Bowl III. The Westmeath team enjoyed a good season, with 5 wins, 1 tie and 2 losses. Their offense finished 3rd in total points scored with 280, where Dermot Corroon played a major role in achieving such a high total. The defence also had a great year, finishing 2nd in points against column with 141. However, they will be seeking revenge for their loss to the Vipers in the regular season, where the game ended 56-33. That win was 1 of 5 for the Dublin Vipers who also suffered 3 defeats. The Vipers’ season was slow to start, losing their first 2 games but eventually changing their fortune to reach the playoffs. A tricky season for the Vipers, where they finished 5th in the point for column, with 215. Sean Douglas has been a key player in keeping the Vipers offense ticking over, and the Minotaurs will be very wary of his abilities. The defence also has work to do as they too finished 5th in the point against column. Two impressive teams who will give it their all on Saturday to get through to the final – not one to miss!

Following the semi-finals, the stage will be set for the final 2 games of Emerald Bowl IV. The 2 semi finals losing teams will battle in the 3rd place final, scheduled for 1pm. Emerald Bowl IV will then take place straight after, scheduled for 2.15pm.

Will the Cowboys, Minotaurs or Vipers add a second National title to their belts or will the Eagles finally earn the status of National Champions. This is do or die Flag Football, no room for mistakes! Best of luck to all teams competing on Saturday!

EBIV Game Day 4 Preview

This weekend will see the final games of the Emerald Bowl IV regular season with all teams in action at Three Rock Rover HC, Rathfarnam. The Craigavon Cowboys (EBII Champions), Westmeath Minotaurs (EBI Champions) and Dublin Vipers (EBIII Champions) have already secured their seats in the playoffs, with the Edenderry Eagles, North Kildare Reapers and potentially the Dublin Rebels still battling for the last spot. The South Dublin Panthers will be hoping to end the season on a high and begin preparations for next season.

In the first round of games (11am), the 6th placed Rebels will take on the 5th placed Reapers. Although close neighbours in the table, there are 7 points separating the teams. This will be the first of 3 games in a row for the Rebels, who will be looking to get off to a good start against the young Reapers side. If the Rebels win all their games and see the Eagles lose or tie both their games, the Rebels will be through to the playoffs. However, this is the Reapers only game of the day and it is a must win for them to have a hope of playoff football – they are level on points with the Edenderry Eagles but the Eagles have a game in hand and thus have the advantage. The second 11am game will see 1st placed Craigavon Cowboys play 7th placed South Dublin Panthers. The Panthers will want to avoid a winless season but may find it tough to overturn against the Cowboys, who ran out 58-26 winners the last time the two teams met. This will be the first of 3 games on the day for the Cowboys, where 2 wins will confirm them as number 1 seeds for the playoffs.

The Rebels are back in action again at 12 noon when they will play the 2nd placed Minotaurs. The Rebels will be hoping that home field advantage will favour them in this one, as the Minotaurs previously beat them 54-18. The Minotaurs will be looking to put pressure on the top seed with a win here and hope other results go their way which would leave their second match a crucial one to win. The second noon game will see the Panthers play back to back games, this time against the 4th placed Eagles. The last meeting between these two saw a record broke as the Eagles put 95 points on the Panthers (final score 95-6). The Panthers will not be looking for a repeat of that, but rather to end their first season return to flag football on a high. While advantage is with the Eagles to make the playoffs, they still need to at least win 1 and draw 1 to confirm their place in the playoffs (depending on the Reapers 11am result). A win here must not be taken for granted.

Round 3 games are set to start at 1pm and will see 3rd placed Vipers play the Eagles. This is the Vipers only game of the day and although they have already secured their playoff spot, it’s an important game for their seeding. Should the Eagles win their first game, the winner of this game will more than likely finish 3rd whilst the loser finishes 4th (or 5th depending on results for the Eagles, Rebels and Reapers). These two teams have been playing since the start of the formal Irish Flag Football League (Emerald Bowl I), going up against each other many times. Neither will want to lose based on the rivalry between the two, but the seeding and potential to miss out on playoff Flag Football for the Eagles will add extra zest to the game. The second game will see the host Rebels take on the Cowboys. The last time these two met was the wildcard playoffs for Emerald Bowl III, where the Cowboys would triumph. The Cowboys have the best defence, and will be looking to make sure the Rebels don’t earn a surprise win in their last game of the season and potentially a playoffs berth.

The final game of the regular season (2pm) will see the top 2 battle for what could determine the number 1 seed. The Minotaurs, the best offence in the league, will come up against the Cowboys, the best defence in the league. The Cowboys beat the Minotaurs 41-31 when the Westmeath team hosted earlier in the season. Although both teams have secured playoff football, there will be no letting up in this match between two old rivals. The Cowboys will want to remain unbeaten while the Minotaurs will have a point to prove.

Although the season is coming to an end and had some rocky patches, this weekend promises to be a very competitive and great day of Flag Football and a super end to the EBIV regular season. Longitude (Music Festival) is on in Marlay Park which next door to the Three Rock Rovers venue, so there may be traffic restrictions in place – please take this into account when planning your journey for Saturday!

by Jo Buchanan.

Craigavon Cowboys Flag Team off to Champions Bowl VIII

The Champions Bowl returns this weekend for its 8th edition. The Champions Bowl is an annual invitational continental club flag football competition contested by top-division European clubs. It is one of the most prestigious flag football tournaments in the world. The Craigavon Cowboys will represent Ireland for the 2nd year running, with the team flying out for Klosterneuburg, Austria on Friday morning. The group the Cowboys will be playing in is a very tough one, of which everyone in the group will play each other once. The draw has thrown up a rematch with the Red Lions from Switzerland, who the Cowboys lost out to in 2016. Two teams from the host nation will prove tough to beat as they have home advantage, whilst the Armadillos and Wanderers are powerhouses of flag football in their respective countries. Seven games on Sunday will be streamed live on www.sportonline.tv and on their app which is free to download! Best of luck to all competing and especially to the Craigavon Cowboys representing Flag Football Ireland.

EBIV Game Day 3 Preview

This Saturday will see 3 teams in action on Game day 3. The Craigavon Cowboys will be hosting, and are in action first at 11am when they face off against the Edenderry Eagles. The Cowboys have had a perfect start to the year, winning all their games so far whilst having an 81 net point difference, thus topping the league table. The Eagles have also been in form, winning 3 and drawing 1 so far and lead the league in points for (213) and points against (52). Last year’s match-up between these two saw the Eagles come out on top in the first game, then drawing the second. These rivals are well known to each other and should prove to be an epic encounter.

Game 2 will see the Westmeath Minotaurs take on the Eagles, scheduled for 12 noon. The Minotaurs started the season well with 2 strong wins against the Dublin Rebels and the South Dublin Panthers, but struggled when they hosted game week 2, losing to the Cowboys and Dublin Vipers. They will be looking to recapture their winning form on Saturday as 2 wins could secure a spot in the playoffs. The Eagles are in back to back action, hoping to win either game if not both, to secure a place in the playoffs. Both have plenty of history, promises to be a cracking game!

The final game of the day will see the Cowboys play the Minotaurs, scheduled for 1pm. Due to point deductions for other teams, the Cowboys have already secured a place in the playoffs, but will be looking to remain on top and head into the playoffs as number 1 seed. Recent history has seen the Cowboys always able to edge out the Minotaurs, with the latest face-off between happening in Game Day 2, where the Cowboys came out on top with a 41-31 victory. Should be another tight and thrilling game that neither will want to lose!

All games will be played at Peoples Park, Portadown.

by Jo Buchanan

EBIV Game Day 2 Preview

EBIV Game Day 2 is upon us with some interesting games on hand which should show this season’s front runners. The top 4 teams at the end of the regular season will qualify for the playoffs, scheduled for 5th August in Gormanston Park, Co. Meath. This week’s games will be hosted by the Westmeath Minotaurs and will take place at Mullingar RFC.

11am Games

The first games kick off at 11am and will see the hosts in action as they take on the Dublin Vipers. The Minotaurs started the season perfectly with two wins against the Rebels (54-18) and Panthers (44-14). The defending Emerald Bowl champions however have gone in the opposite direction, sitting bottom of the table with minus one point. Big match for both as a win is needed for the Vipers to get back on track, while a win for the Minotaurs would prove they are the real deal this season. The North Kildare Reapers will take on the Dublin Rebels at 11am also. The Reapers had a convincing win over the Panthers (59-6) but failed to overcome the Craigavon Cowboys (33-52) as they sit in 4th with a 1&1 record. The Rebels have had a tough start to the season, with two heavy defeats in their first two games. A tough ask for the Rebels here, vast improvements will need to be seen on defence as they look to kick start their campaign. The Reapers will be favourites in this one, and will look to further widen the gap between 4th and 5th.

12pm Games

The second round of games are scheduled for 12 noon with the South Dublin Panthers taking on the Craigavon Cowboys. The Panthers have had a tough reintroduction to flag, with two defeats from their first two games. The Panthers struggled on both sides of the ball, scoring only 20 points and conceding 103 in two games. The Cowboys however started well, gaining revenge from the Emerald Bowl III semi-final by beating the Vipers 34-14. A second win against the Reapers sees them as one of three teams who have 2&0 records. The Cowboys will look to cement their position as real contenders with a win here, while the Panthers will need to see big improvements to challenge the Cowboys. The second 12 noon game will see the Reapers in back to back action as they take on rivals Edenderry Eagles. The Eagles currently sit top of the league after wins over the Rebels (56-12) and Dublin Vipers (walkover). They will be hoping to continue their form into this game and not let the Reapers start well. Plenty of history between these two which will ensure that this will be one great game for the neutral.

1pm Games

On to the 1pm games and more than likely the game of the day as the hosts Westmeath Minotaurs take on the Craigavon Cowboys. Both these teams could potentially be coming into this game with 3&0 records so this will be a key game for both. Back to back games for the Cowboys may work in the Minotaurs favour however recent history would suggest that the Cowboys are favourites for this one. Both have strong offences so it could all depend on whose defence steps up. Game 2 at 1pm will see a Dublin derby as the Vipers take on the Rebels. Both teams are at the wrong end of the table, so a win for both here is important. Both are in action at 11am so there is no advantage for either in terms of a break between games but it is expected that the Vipers will find the form they had from last season when they won the championship. With bragging rights on the table, and the need for wins for both teams, this should prove to be a great game.

2pm Games

The final game of the day will be at 2pm when the Eagles play the Panthers. Again, no advantage for either team as they both play their first game at 12 noon. Tough day for the Panthers having to take on two well established flag teams who are both 2&0, they will be hoping for a good performance in this game to shock the favourites. The Eagles will be looking to go 4&0 as they miss out playing either the Minotaurs or Cowboys this week but anything can happen in flag football!

Best of luck to all teams competing!!

EBIII – Regular Season Final Week

The final game week is upon us, and there is still plenty to play for! We take a look at Saturdays upcoming games, as well as all playoff possibilities. Remember, 6 teams will make the playoffs; the 4 division winners followed by the 2 best runners up. The 2 division winners with the best overall records will receive a bye week on the way to the semi-finals and ultimately compete for the Emerald Bowl III (25th February) while the other 2 division winners and 2 best runner ups will face off in the wildcard round on February 4th. The 2 winners from the wildcard match-ups will then join the top 2 seeded teams in the semi-finals. EBC North Division wrapped up last week, as the Edenderry Eagles clinched the division championship with a 6-1-1 record and 19 points, automatically claiming a playoff berth. QB Jordan Farrell has impressed for the Eagles as he sits 3rd in the passer ratings with a 73.4% completion rate and the league record in TD’s (33), while David Cummins (27 Receptions, league record 12 TDs) and Kealan Farrell (8 rushes, league record 28 receptions and 9TDs) sitting 1st and 3rd in the offensive ratings respectively, have proven valuable targets. Kealan’s all-round ability can be seen as he sits top of the defensive ratings with the league record in sacks (5), with fellow team mate Aaron O’Neill in 3rd with the league record in interceptions (6). The team, as a whole, sits top of both the offensive and defensive ratings tables with the league record in reception (110) and TD’s (40) and the league record in batted balls (52). The Cowboys (6-1-1) finished in 2nd tied with the Eagles in points (19) but the Eagles had the head to head win over the ‘Boys. The Cowboys are, however, guaranteed a wildcard round berth. QB Conrad Smith will be hoping to continue his form into the playoffs as he sits 2nd in the passer ratings with a completion rate of 70% and 25TD’s, with Peter Loughran proving to be a key asset as he sits 2nd on the offensive ratings table with 20 receptions and 10 TD’s. Jo Buchanan sits 2nd in the defensive ratings with the league record in tackles (22). The Eagles currently stand as number 1 seed, however they are not guaranteed to keep their position – they will be hoping for results go their way in order to clinch a bye.

Five fixtures will be played at UCD this weekend, which will have a big impact on the overall playoff bracket. Current 2nd seed and only undefeated, UCD (6-0-0) will take on 3rd seed Dublin Rebels (6-1-0) at 11am. While both teams have the same points, UCD are ahead with a higher winning ratio (1.000). Paul Grogan sits 8th in the passer ratings with the league highest 78.2% completion rate and 11 TD’s. Keith Foster has been key in defence for the Rebels as he sits 7th in the ratings, while Sean Leamy (8th, 24 receptions, 6 TDs) and Conrad Cook (10th, 5 rushes, 16 receptions, 6 TDs) will be looking to improve their position in the offensive ratings table. This will be the Rebels only game of the day and their final game of the regular season. They will be looking for a win which would secure the EBC South Division championship and a possible bye. UCD will play twice, potentially only needing one win to clinch the EBC East Division title and an automatic bye. Should this happen, the Eagles would drop to 3rd seed and host the wildcard round match-ups. UCD’s signal caller Kevin Duffy sits 6th in the passer ratings with a 67.2% completion rate and 11 TD’s, though no UCD players made it into the top 10 of the offensive ratings. Gavin Quirke and Michael Sykes (4th and 8th in the defensive ratings respectively) will be looking to galvanise the rest of the squad for these important games. The Rebels and UCD haven’t matched up yet this season.

The DIT Spartans (1-5-0) will take on the Dublin Vipers (4-1-0) on pitch 2 also at 11am. While the Spartans’ season will end on Saturday, they will be hoping to end on a high and take momentum into the next season. Vipers will be playing three games in a row, and have a shot at winning the EBC East, albeit a long shot. This starts by needing a win against the Spartans. The Vipers overwhelmingly beat the Spartans 51-6 last time out, they will be hoping for the same to start their difficult day well.

Two games will then start at 12pm, with the Vipers taking on UCD in what is a crucial divisional game for both. Vipers need to beat UCD to keep their division title hopes alive, and put a big score on UCD to better UCD’s point’s difference. A win for UCD, regardless of their first match result, would secure their division title as well as a bye to finals day. If UCD beat the Rebels but lose to the Vipers, then the Vipers could win the division on point’s difference if they win their other 2 games. UCD beat the Vipers 27-25 in the Vipers only loss of the season so far, this one promises to be great with all to play for! Vipers signal caller Joe Grey has found form and sits top of the passer ratings and 9th in offensive ratings (9 rushes, 4 TDs) making him a danger both behind and beyond the line of scrimmage, with the added threat of his successful partnership with Sean Douglas sitting 7th in the offensive ratings (6 rushes, 19 receptions and 4 TDs). Conor McGroarty sits 6th in the defensive ratings, with Darren Byrne occupying 9th spot.

The Spartans will play the Marble City Mud Dogs (4-2-0) in their second game of the day. Mud Dogs are still in with a shot of reaching the wildcard round. They are level on points with the Vipers, but the Vipers have a game in hand. They will need to win both their matches on Saturday to have a chance at progressing. The Spartans will provide a tough test that the Marble City team must overcome. DIT’s Arun Mooney has had a good year so far, sitting 7th in the passer ratings (45% completion, 7 TD’s) with Paul McGoldrick a key target for all season while 4th in the offensive stats. Spartans will be looking for improvements on the defence as none of their players could make up the top 10.

The final game at UCD will see the Vipers take on the Mud Dogs. Depending on results from the above matches, this result could have a variety of different consequences. Should things go both teams way, this will be a huge game to see who will take the last playoff spot. Mud Dogs have struggled at times this year reflected by having no players in the top 10 of the offensive ratings, however, with JP Murphy seating 4th in the passer ratings with the league record in pass completion (99), 2nd best completion rate of 78.0% and 15TD’s, and Maurice Casey 5th in defence ratings, could make them the dark horse of this match-up. The two teams have been closely ranked throughout the season without playing each other. A win here is imperative for both teams’ chances at making the playoffs, big day ahead at UCD!

Three EBC West divisional matches at Westmeath on Saturday will finish out the season. Game of the day at Mullingar RFC will see the Mullingar Minotaurs take on the North Kildare Reapers. Should the Reapers win or draw this game, then the Reapers will claim the EBC West Division championship, and a place in the wildcard round. Mullingar’s only chance of making the playoffs is by winning the division title, and will require to win this game and their next, as well as the Reapers to lose to Athlone. The Reapers previously beat the Minotaurs in a close game, 29-27. Reapers QB Joe O’Heron has had a great season and sits 5th in the passer ratings (66.2% completion rate, 13 TD’s), with John Kelly proving to be a useful target as he sits 6th in the offensive ratings. Lasts year’s finalists Mullingar seemed to struggle this year with none of their players able to make the top 10 of any of the ratings. This one will prove to be no different with so much on the line. Both teams will be expected to pick up wins against Athlone, who have so far been winless. Advantage is with the Reapers, but could all change come Saturday. Games start at 11am.

EBIII – Update

by Jo Buchanan

A happy new year to you all! Flag Football in Ireland is back following the Christmas break, with 7 games this Saturday and the regular season nearing its end. EBC North Division champions will be crowned as well as the possibility of EBC South Division champions also being crowned. Should the Vipers lose their 2 games, UCD will be EBC East champions with 2 games to spare. If the Reapers win their 2 games on Saturday, then they will be crowned EBC West champions – a big weekend ahead!

We start by looking at EBC South in the only divisional match-ups this weekend. The Rebels will take on the Wolves in the first game, followed by Rebels vs Mud Dogs, then Mud Dogs vs Wolves. Form would suggest that both the Mud Dogs and Rebels will take the points against the struggling Wolves, and should the Rebels beat the Wolves in the first game of the day, the Rebels – Mud Dogs game will become a divisional championship game. If the Rebels win, then they will have 18 points with two games remaining. If Mud Dogs lose, the most points they can then have at the end is 18, so the Rebels would clinch the division on the head to head tiebreaker. This is a must win for the Mud Dogs to keep their division hopes alive, the previous result finished 26-19 to the Rebels so this promises to be a great one with so much on the line.

The Mud Dogs will also play the Mullingar Minotaurs in a rearranged game, and should they lose to the Rebels, they will need to beat both Mullingar and Wolves to keep their wildcard playoff hopes alive. Unfortunately, the Wolves are now out of the running, but will be looking to use this opportunity to get an early start on preparing for next season. Mullingar will need to beat the Mud Dogs and other results to go their way to have a chance of winning the EBC West. Marble City Mud Dogs are hosting these games, starting at 11am.

Big day for the Reapers and Eagles as they can both clinch their respective division titles, Eagles only needing one win to clinch the EBC North and the Reapers needing two wins to win the EBC West Division. UCD will also win the EBC East title should the Vipers lose both their games, while the Vipers need 2 wins to pressure the Mud Dogs for the final playoff berth – all to play for! Game one sees hosts Reapers take on the Vipers. Both teams have suffered just one defeat, with the Reapers having played one more game so this will be a very tight game, one mistake could decide it. A loss for the Vipers is not an option while the Reapers could recover from a loss, but it would be difficult. Game two sees the Vipers take on the Eagles, which will be a hotly contested match-up. Eagles just need the one win to take EBC North, and will be looking to take it in this game to take the pressure off their final game.

Eagles and UCD are the only remaining undefeated teams, a tall ask for the Vipers. Eagles will take on the Reapers in the final game, where a win might not be so vital for the Eagles, but still very vital for the Reapers. All to play for in North Kildare, matches start at 11am.

An exciting day of Flag Football ahead, difficult for anyone to predict results with so much at stake!

EBIII – Season Preview

By Jo Buchanan.

Emerald Bowl III Season Preview

With the schedule finalised and released, we take a look at the upcoming Irish Emerald Bowl III season. 12 teams split into 4 divisions will contest 8 games each to make their bid for the playoffs. 6 teams will make the playoffs (4 division winners plus 2 best runners up). The 2 best division winners will receive byes into the semi-finals while seeds 3 – 6 will contest in wildcard playoffs. With the regular season set to begin on Saturday 22nd October, we look at the top 4 teams from last season to see if they will be at the top when the playoffs come around…

Craigavon Cowboys

Last seasons champions will open their season with real belief that they can retain the title. Their trip to the Champions Bowl will have given the players invaluable experience and Peter Loughran‘s inclusion in the Flag Football National Squad will only add to that. The ‘Boys finished 2nd place in points for (236) but will be looking to tighten up on defence after finishing with a points against total of 129 (4th overall). The Cowboys suffered a slow start last year, going 2 & 2 before winning 4 on the bounce to reach the playoffs – a stronger start will be needed this year as they travel to Edenderry to begin their campaign against the Eagles and Jets in divisional match-ups.

Mullingar Minotaurs

The Mullingar Minotaurs will be hoping to go one better than last year, but have a tough division to qualify from first. Flag Football National Team QB Conor Brennan will call the shots once again for Mullingar, with the recent international friendlies sure to add to his confidence. The Minotaurs were dominant last year, winning all 8 regular season games, scoring 369 points (1st in league) while conceding only 104 points (2nd in league). However, they failed to score any points in the final, something they must not let happen when they travel to North Kildare to start their season against last year semi-finalists Reapers and close neighbours Athlone Minotaurs.

Dublin Vipers

7 of the 15 Team Ireland players that competed a few weeks ago were Vipers – they are back this year as serious contenders for Emerald Bowl III. Vipers QB Joe Grey took on a different role for the National Team playing at receiver, with the rest of their players (Andrew Bracken, Sean Douglas, Conor McGroarty, Bobby Smith, Ben Arulogun) occupying their normal positions. A 6 & 2 record last year saw them take 3rd spot overall, however they occupied number 1 spot when it came to points against (67). Continuing their defensive superiority will be key if they hope to reach the playoffs once again, they travel to DIT to take on the Spartans and UCD in their first matches.

North Kildare Reapers

A 5 & 3 record last year saw the Reapers qualify for the playoffs as 5th seeds. The Reapers saw off 4th seeds Crusaders 33-12 to set up a semi-final tie with Mullingar Minotaurs, which they would go on to lose 19-27. The Reapers have a tough schedule if they wish to repeat that accomplishment – playing Mullingar Minotaurs twice and the Cowboys and Vipers once each. They will be looking to improve their points difference from last season (61) as well as pick up a few more wins to gain an automatic semi-final spot. The Reapers start their tough season at home in North Kildare where they will face Mullingar Minotaurs and Athlone Minotaurs.

Special mention to the Waterford Wolves who have returned to flag football – the Wolves started off as a Flag Football team before focusing on their American Football programme but are now in a position to participate in both, great progress! Playoffs and Bowl games are provisionally dated in February, good luck to all teams involved!

North

Antrim Jets

Craigavon Cowboys

Edenderry Eagles

 East

DIT Spartans

Dublin Vipers

University College Dublin

 South

Dublin Rebels

Marble City Mud Dogs

Waterford Wolves

 West

Athlone Minotaurs

Mullingar Minotaurs

North Kildare Reapers

National Flag Football Team Gets Ready for International Friendly Event

Team Ireland Flag Football prepared for their upcoming international friendly series at Three Rock Rovers in Dublin last weekend. IAFA is hosting a six-team international Flag Football series in Gormanston, Co. Meath on September 10th. Two full squads from Sweden, the Dutch Lions as well as Team GB Silver Lions squad (2nd team) and local German team Ramstein Mayhems will travel to Ireland for the event. Team Ireland squad has been selected from players evolving in the IAFA Flag Football League, Emerlad Bowl Conference, which also opened its membership registration for 2016/17 recently. The tournament will take place at Gormanston Park in County Meath with all visiting teams being accommodated on site.

Team Ireland Flag Football Squad:

Coaching Staff
Head Coach: Steve Walsh
Assistant Head Coach: Áine Nic An Ghail
Offensive Coordinator: Dermot Corroon
Assistant Offensive Coordinator: Guillaume Poznanski
Defensive Coordinator: Paul Kirkwood
Physio: Eleni Henry

Team Roster

PlayerNumberClub
Joe Grey1Dublin Vipers
Danny Lucas Johnson5UCD
Conrad Cook8Dublin Rebels
Andrew Bracken10Dublin Vipers
Sean Douglas11Dublin Vipers
Conor Brennan13Westmeath Minotaurs
Paul Grogan18Dublin Rebels
Jason Owens20Westmeath Minotaurs
Conor McGroarty22Dublin Vipers
Bobby Smith27Dublin Vipers
Ben Arulogun32Dublin Vipers
Michael Sykes36UCD
Darren Byrne42Dublin Vipers
Gavin Quirke85UCD
Peter Loughran87Craigavon Cowboys
Niall King91Westmeath Minotaurs