The 4th of July saw the IAFA showcase the sport to thousands of young children,teens and parents in Farmleigh,Phoenix Park.
Children tried The IAFA experience,with american football themed inflatables and training courses. Teenagers got to try flag football and even got to experience a miniture adult kitted scrimmages featuring players from Trinity College, DCU and UCD.
The Office of Public Works estimated that close to 10,000 people, mainly young children, actively participated in the IAFA experience.
The following activities were put on by the IAFA:
Field Demonstration Area:
1. Players from the IAFL demonstrated kitted football drills.
2. Players from the Flag Football Schools Programme (aged 10-13) played flag football demonstration games.
3. Pass and Punt competitions for kids.
Interactive Games:
The IAFA had the following interactive stands whereby members of the public can have fun trying out some of the skills applicable to American football:
Quarterback Game – throwing an American football at some targets.
Short-yardage game – diving for the line with a bungee cord attached to simulate being dragged back by tacklers.
Agility Course – an agility course similar to one used by real American footballers.
Wear the Gear – Kids were allowed dress up in full kit for photos.
EA Sports Interactive Games:
EA Sports had two interactive games:
John Madden football on PS3
EA Sports Active on Wii.
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Elsewhere IAFA representatives Michael Smith and Terry Lynch were welcomed by US Embassy staff and friends as they officiated a flag game for their 4th July celebrations, and IAFOA Board member Michael Smith was presented with a special commemerative coin by the Embassy to mark the occassion. The Coin will also serve as the coin for the opening toss at Shamrock bowl 24 on Aug 7th in Tallaght Stadium,see www.ticketmaster.ie this wed to purhase your tickets!
The evening was rounded out with The Dublin Rebels defeating the West Dublin Rhinos 48-00 in Castleknock College.
