Category: Flag Football

Posts related to Flag Football

Announcement: 2024 AFI Women’s Flag Football League

On the back of 2023’s surge in women’s participation in Flag Football — thanks in part to Co-Ed flag football blitz days in the summer and the first ever competition entry for the Women’s Irish Wolfhounds Flag Football team in August’s IFAF European Championships — as well as the recent We Run the World Ireland flag football event in Dublin, American Football Ireland are thrilled to announce Ireland’s first Women’s Flag Football League, which will launch this Spring.

Speaking on the formation of this league, Interim Director of Flag Football Kelly Dwyer had this to say: 

“The establishment of a women’s flag football league is a first in AFI history which comes after a year of genuine committed dedication to the development of this code.

Naturally, women in sport is a topic very close to my heart and I am personally incredibly proud to deliver these plans – but I would like to thank all those who are unseen and who have given their help and support behind the scenes, without whom this wouldn’t be possible.

The inaugural Women’s Premier League will consist of 4 game-days and the league structure has been built with accessibility for new teams in mind. The first three days are seeding days, where teams will receive points based on win, draw, loss (3 points, 1 point and 0.5 points, respectively) and the league table after game-day three will dictate the seeding for games on Finals day.
So any team is welcome to join the league at any stage – but early participation is rewarded!
Proposed game days are 13th April, 20th April, June 1st with Claddagh Bowl on June 15th.
Ultimately, and like every flag football event, it’s the clubs that participate that will make this new league a success.

What excites me most about this is that, over the last year, the conversation about women in our sport has moved from being primarily about “participation” to now being about “competition”. Competition is the new standard set by women in flag football and I’m excited to see where we’ll be this time next year!”

Though not yet confirmed for The Women’s Premier League, clubs such as South Dublin Panthers, Belfast Trojans and Dublin Rebels have previously submitted teams into co-ed tournaments and women’s only tournaments, while women-only teams that made their debut at We Run the World Ireland like the Cork City Tabbies and Phoenix Football are also potential additions to the league. Team applications to participate and to host game days can be sent via this link:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1wD_SVAyVqoVWV8C2FQ5YYD2qOhPZIqmV-YQGyNy1hsw/edit

AFI Welcomes Interim Director of Flag Football

American Football Ireland is happy to announce Board member Kelly Dwyer will be stepping into the role of Interim Director of Flag Football, following Ben Arulogun’s tenure that begun April of last year. Ben facilitated the likes of the annual domestic flag football leagues and the inaugural National Intervarsity Flag Football Championships, and American Football Ireland thanks him for the work he put into the role.

Kelly is no stranger to flag football herself, having played with the Louth Mavericks before becoming a big part of the Singaporean flag football community during her years there. She has since moved to Denmark where she continues to be an active part of the flag scene, playing for the Copenhagen Towers. Of course, Kelly represented Ireland at last year’s European Flag Football Championships as part of the Irish Wolfhounds Women’s team, and has been a leading part of bringing the WRTW Women’s Flag Football event to Dublin this March 10th. We are delighted to have Kelly on board to continue the development of and participation in flag football. 

For queries, you can contact Kelly at kelly_dw@americanfootball.ie

Preview: 2022 AFI Flag Football Playoffs

2022 has proven to be a wild year for all 3 forms of American football in Ireland, but none have been quite as unpredictable as the 2022 AFI Flag Football season. Beginning back on August 20th shortly after Shamrock Bowl XXXIV, 24 flag football teams have competed for the chance to be a part of this Saturday November 5th‘s playoffs at Dromore RFC, Co. Down. Alas, 8 remain, 4 each from Premier Division and Division 1.

12:15 — Division 1 Semi-finals
#1 Belfast Knights vs #4 Antrim Jets
#2 Westmeath Minotaurs vs Cill Dara Crusaders

13:30 — Premier Division Semi-finals
#1 South Dublin Panthers vs #4 Donegal / Derry Vipers
#2 Craigavon Cowboys vs #3 Dublin Bay Raptors

14:45Division 1 final: Glas Bowl III

16:00Premier Division final: Emerald Bowl VIII

With just a few more games to go before this year’s Emerald Bowl and Glas Bowl Champions are crowned, let’s take a look at each team’s path to the playoffs.

Premier Division

#1 South Dublin Panthers (10-0) — South

The Panthers came up from 2021’s Division 1 and utterly dominated the South group this year, going undefeated and putting up some truly elite performances on both sides of the ball. Scoring a country-high 411 points in their 10 games and also boasting the #1 defense (157 points), the Panthers came out with a screaming start by handily beating group-favourite Edenderry Eagles and Dublin Rebels.  It should have come as no surprise that the Panthers have had as good a season as they’ve had — with the likes of Jo Buchanan, Sean Douglas and Ryan Eccles all making splash plays on offense and defense, as well as QB Joe Grey leading the charge for the South Dublin side.

#2 Craigavon Cowboys (10-0) — North

2021’s National Champions had themselves a perfect season of their own, going 10-0 in an otherwise very tight division. Also posting over 400 points, the Craigavon offense (and a certain QB Peter Loughran) is a juggernaut everyone around the league is very aware of. With potential national team members such as Neil Maxwell, Austin Ramsey and Scott Buchanan available though, Craigavon are more than just their well-renowned QB. With a defense that kept opposing offenses to 21 or less points in 6 out of 10 games, Craigavon have everything it takes to repeat their Emerald Bowl win from last season

#3 Dublin Bay Raptors (7-3) — South

Perhaps another surprise considering the preseason strength of the South group, the Raptors truly burst on to the scene by starting 4-0. Veteran QB Todd Zboyan led a young group of players after amalgamating with the Thomastown Tigers and crafted a team that put up more than 30 points in all but 1 game. While the likes of Jack Basquille and Jason Kolokithas will help fill the gap, the Raptors will be without standout piece on offense and defense Peadar O’Muiri. Still, the Raptors have shown to be the type of team to face big challenges head-on, and after coming 2 points short of upsetting the #1 seed, they may very well fancy themselves against the #2 seed.

#4 Donegal / Derry Vipers (6-4) — North

The Vipers might be the true upset of this playoff schedule this season. Being promoted from 2021’s Division 1, Donegal / Derry had a tough task ahead of them to stay up in a group that includes the high-scoring Hurricanes, a Trojans team that specialises in tight games, an athletic Mavericks outfit and fellow promoted side Belfast City Lions. Not only did the Vipers achieve Premier Division status for next year, but they blew past every expectation put in front of them, and put on some fantastic games while they were at it. After a sputtering start that saw some wide scorelines, 4 of the Vipers last 6 games were decided by 10 or less points, including a thriller with Maynooth that saw QB Peter Hamilton connect with star receiver Chad Higgins with just 7 seconds left on the clock to both win the game and secure their spot in this weekend’s playoffs. The Vipers knack for coming through with big plays in clutch moments will be key in their push for the finals.

Division 1

#1 Belfast Knights (9-1) — North

Relegation can demoralise some teams and lead to some hitting the reset button and taking a few years before making true attempts to climb back up — the Knights aren’t some teams. With players like Jordan Clinton and John McCrystal to get the ball to, the Knights scored fairly consistently in the 30-35 point range, landing there in 6 of their 10 games. The series with the Jets is currently in the black and gold’s favour at 2-1, so the Knights will have even more of an incentive to progress to the Glas Bowl game.

#2 Westmeath Minotaurs (8-2) — South

The Minotaurs have, for the last few years, been the team that has been *right* at playoff contention, only to have forfeits from earlier in the season to come back and haunt them. After putting a full season together, the Westmeath side put themselves on top of the South group, dropping points only to the Crusaders at the start of the season and the Rebels 2nds in their final gameweek. Scoring over 400 points this season — 1 of 3 teams in the country to do so — it seems the infusion of youth in their depths has pushed the Minotaurs to true players in the division, with the likes of Jack and Darragh Lynch, Peter Dempsey and Shaun Dalton all playing key roles.

#3 Cill Dara Crusaders (7-3) — South

The Crusaders are a different side altogether with Jordan Farrell under center compared to last season. Improving drastically from their 1-5 finish in 2021, Cill Dara are just 2 games away from adding a flag football trophy to the club’s cabinet. Luke Carey and Ethan Bolger have added some versatility on offense that perhaps was previously missing, while defensively the Crusaders have been rock solid, boasting a unit that has conceded less than 17 points a game. Much like the Vipers in the Premier Division, the Crusaders waited right until the end of the season to lock this playoff position up, just getting in ahead of the Rebels 2nds after beating UCD 30-27. Morale and momentum in the Crusaders camp is high and, with a 50-20 victory over the Minotaurs under their belts from earlier in the season, could well be on their way to lifting the Glas Bowl on Saturday.

#4 Antrim Jets (7-3) — North

The Jets are a curious team to preview. Relatively new to flag football (2021 debut season: 2-6 record), the Jets have performed past their expected goals for the season. With the highest scoring offense and 2nd best defense in the North group, their place in the playoffs was more than validated, especially considering they shutout the #1 seed in an amazing 32-0 performance and one loss was by a mere 2 points. With standouts like Jonny McCullough, Ryan Beckett and Scot McLean, the Jets can absolutely go on a run to the Glas Bowl.

Entry to the playoff event this Saturday is FREE so come down and support your team! Make sure to follow along the games on our dedicated flag football website here to find live scores and full season standings. A live stream will also be available — link to follow on our social pages.

Irish Wolfhounds Women’s Flag Football Team Now Recruiting

The Irish Wolfhounds National Flag Football coaching staff are recruiting Irish national athletes for the Women’s Flag Football team. The coaching staff, led by Head Coach Dan Shaw, are excited to put forward a competitive team for the 2023 IFAF European Flag Football Championships next August in Limerick, which will see numerous countries’ Men’s and Women’s teams taking part to be crowned European Champions!

When asked about the Women’s national team program, Coach Dan Shaw had this to say:
Female Participation in flag football is something I have always been passionate about both at club and national level. This will be a fantastic opportunity for top tier athletes from within our own league bit also across other sports to pull on a green jersey and represent this island next summer. I am very excite to see what caliber of female squad we can put on the field for next year. 

Interested athletes can submit their sporting CV to flag_hc@irishwolfhounds.ie. The opportunity to represent Ireland in a rapidly developing sport has presented itself — find out if you have what it takes to be a Wolfhound!

Ireland to host 2023 IFAF European Flag Football Championships

American Football Ireland are delighted to announce that Ireland will host the 2023 IFAF European Flag Football Championships. The tournament will see more than a dozen European nation teams compete in Senior Men’s and Senior Women’s games from 18-20th August 2023 at University of Limerick to crown the 2023 European Flag Football Champions.

AFI would like to thank IFAF President Pierre Trochet, IFAF Managing Director Andy Fuller, IFAF Director of Competitions Roope Noronen and all who were involved in the bidding process for this fantastic event. This tournament will help strengthen the public opinion of flag football and American football in Ireland, as well as further develop the on-field product for both sports. We are excited for the opportunity to host and learn from our peers across Europe and provide for elite players from Ireland and abroad the platform to achieve their full potential in the sport.

 

AFI Appoints New Team Ireland Flag Football Head Coach, Interim Team Manager

American Football Ireland are delighted to announce the appointments of Dan Shaw and Joe Kinahan to the roles of Wolfhounds Flag Head Coach and Interim Wolfhounds Flag Team Manager, respectively. 

Dan Shaw has more than 8 years of experience in flag football in Ireland, previously being involved with the Belfast Trojans and Ulster Elks flag teams before helping establish the Belfast City Lions. With the Lions, Coach Dan helped lead the Lions to promotion from AFI Flag Division 1 in their inaugural season. He has previous experience in the Wolfhounds Flag setup, having been Defensive Co-Ordinator through 2020 and 2021. 

On his appointment, Coach Dan had this to say:
“I am honoured to be appointed head coach and look forward to leading the programme into the championships next Summer. In my 8 years in flag football I have worked to earn the chance to coach at the national level and look forward to working with the best players and coaches that Ireland has to offer.”

Joe Kinahan has been involved with flag football in Ireland, having been a part of the Westmeath Minotaurs flag team until 2017. From there, Joe joined the MU Hurricanes, a club for which he served as chairman for 2 years. Joe was recently appointed Assistant Director of Flag Football for AFI, and is excited to continue his involvement in flag football:

“It’s no secret to anyone who knows me how much I care about flag football, and specifically flag football in Ireland. While I am only operating in this role in the interim, I am thrilled to be able to help Coach Dan and Wolfhounds General Manager Alan Orr, 2 people I have a lot of respect for, to scout and to select the very best flag football players across Ireland to represent the island in any tournaments that may present themselves over the next few years.”

AFI would also like to formally announce Stephen McDonnell is stepping down from the AFI board. AFI President Aidan Maguire had this to say on the hard work Stephen has done in many roles, including Interim Director of Coaching:

“At this time I would like to thank Stephen “Mack” McDonnell for volunteering his free time to help with the growth and development of American Football Ireland. Steve joined the AFI Board during the height of the Covid pandemic and helped with AFI’s navigation through such uncertain times. Steve’s input in relation to the new soon to be released, blended learning coaching course has been second to none.  On behalf of all AFI Members, I wish him all the best in the future as he begins a new journey in life”

AFI wish Stephen McDonnell the best in his future endeavors, and are excited about the direction of the Wolfhounds Flag programme under Head Coach Dan Shaw and Interim Team Manager Joe Kinahan.

AFI Appoints New Director & Assistant Director of Flag Football

American Football Ireland are delighted to announce the appointment of Guillaume Poznanski (GP) as our new Director of Flag Football. Guillaume is no stranger to the role, having already served 5 years as Director of Flag Football for his first stint 8 years ago, and has coached for numerous teams in Ireland, most recently the National Flag Football programm and the South Dublin Panthers U18 Women’s Flag Football team. This experience, we believe, will be key to the further development of the sport here in Ireland across all age groups.

Guillaume had this to say on his appointment:
Flag Football is a global sport accessible to all walks of life, and there lies in the beauty of it. The game is competitive but fun and available to everyone, welcoming athletes of all abilities, genders and levels of experience. Sport has a unique ability to bring people together in such a way that allows us to transcend our differences and find common ground. Ireland is a special place because of its sport history and tradition and flag football deserves its place in it.

My expectations for the steady expansion of Flag Football in Ireland are simple: I want to make sure that we provide a nationally competitive, broad-based programme that inspires and focuses on growing a sport that fosters excellence, respect and friendship. Excellence by doing the best we can, by taking part and progressively raising the level of the game. Respect of oneself, for other people, for rules, for the sport. Friendship to encourage us to see sport as an instrument for mutual understanding between individuals and groups.

Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does. It speaks to people in a language they understand. Sport can create hope where once there was only despair.‘ – Nelson Mandela.”

American Football Ireland can also announce the appointment of Joe Kinahan to the position of Assistant Director of Flag Football. Joe has been a part of our Communications team since June 2021, but has long been a member of the Irish flag football scene, having played with the Westmeath Minotaurs and — more recently — served as player and President of the MU Hurricanes. 

Joe had this to say on his appointment:
Flag football is how my football journey started off 11 years ago, and I’m happy that I’ve kept it going and gotten even more involved in it. It is a fun, engaging, perhaps more accessible way to play American football, so I can’t wait to work with Guillaume to provide a steady expansion of the sport on the island. Getting more people playing our sport makes everyone better, and it will only help further develop AFI going forward.”

For any matters regarding Flag Football, please get in touch with Guillaume or Joe at flagfootball@americanfootball.ie

Two New Clubs Granted AFI Member Status

The AFI Management Board has approved associate membership to two new clubs: Belfast City Lions and Thomastown Tigers. Both will compete at flag football level. Welcome to AFI!

There are now 31 member clubs of American Football Ireland:

Club

Competing Teams

Antrim Jets

Senior Football & Flag Football

Belfast City Lions

Flag Football

Belfast Knights

Senior Football & Flag Football

Belfast Trojans

Senior Football & Flag Football

Causeway Giants

Senior Football & Flag Football

Cill Dara Crusaders

Senior Football

Cork Admirals

Senior Football & Youth Football

Cork City Outlaws

Flag Football

Craigavon Cowboys

Senior Football & Flag Football

Donegal/Derry Vipers

Senior Football, Youth Football & Flag Football

Downpatrick Saints

Flag Football

Dublin Bay Raptors

Flag Football

Dublin City Quetzals

Flag Football

Dublin Rebels

Senior Football, Youth Football & Flag Football

Edenderry Eagles

Flag Football

Galway Warriors

Flag Football

Louth Mavericks

Senior Football & Flag Football

Maynooth University Hurricanes

Flag Football

Meath Bulldogs

Senior Football

NI Razorbacks

Senior Football

North Dublin Pirates

Senior Football & Flag Football

South Dublin Panthers

Senior Football, Youth Football & Flag Football

Thomastown Tigers

Flag Football

Trinity College Dublin

Senior Football & Flag Football

UCC Raiders

Flag Football

UCD

Senior Football & Flag Football

UL Vikings

Senior Football

Ulster University Elks

Flag Football

West Dublin Rhinos

Senior Football

Westmeath Minotaurs

Senior Football & Flag Football

Wexford Eagles

Senior Football

Wolfhounds Flag Football: Squad Selection

The Irish Wolfhounds Flag Football coaching staff has finalized the selection of the first 32 athletes to train with the Wolfhounds Flag Football squad in 2021.

The selected athletes will be given a training plan to follow over the next few months in order to prepare for squad training beginning in 2021. The plan will cover strength and conditioning, nutrition, regular check-ups, individual position-based and skill-specific drills, and when possible (within COVID-19 guidelines) group drills.

The coaching staff are keen to reiterate that if you were not selected on this occasion, keep working hard to improve your game – chances to be selected for the squad will arise in the future.

The 32 athletes selected are listed below:

JORDAN CLINTON
BELFAST KNIGHTS

PAUL CROTHERS
BELFAST KNIGHTS

JOHN MCCRYSTAL
BELFAST KNIGHTS

HELEN SMYTH
BELFAST TROJANS

ALEX HANCOCK
BELFAST TROJANS

DAVID HOUSTON
BELFAST TROJANS

LUKE MCGRANN
BELFAST TROJANS

BEN MUDGE
BELFAST TROJANS

SEAN SHANNON
BELFAST TROJANS

VINCENT SWEETNAM
BELFAST TROJANS

PETER LOUGHRAN
CRAIGAVON COWBOYS

NEIL MAXWELL
CRAIGAVON COWBOYS

LAWRENCE RUDDOCK
CRAIGAVON COWBOYS

SEAN DOUGLAS
DUBLIN BAY RAPTORS

JOE GREY
DUBLIN BAY RAPTORS

CONOR MCGROARTY
DUBLIN BAY RAPTORS

MATTHEW O’MEARA
EDENDERRY EAGLES

MEG EZE
LOUTH MAVERICKS

DANIEL FINLEY
LOUTH MAVERICKS

NATHAN HEARTY
LOUTH MAVERICKS

DECLAN MULVIHILL
LOUTH MAVERICKS

IAN ANDERS
MAYNOOTH UNIVERSITY HURRICANES

ALAN CAMPBELL
MAYNOOTH UNIVERSITY HURRICANES

LUKE MCINTYRE
MAYNOOTH UNIVERSITY HURRICANES

BEN ARULOGUN
SOUTH DUBLIN PANTHERS

JO BUCHANAN
SOUTH DUBLIN PANTHERS

JACK DOYLE
SOUTH DUBLIN PANTHERS

RYAN ECCLES
SOUTH DUBLIN PANTHERS

RYAN HEWITT
SOUTH DUBLIN PANTHERS

BRENDAN DOWLING TRINITY COLLEGE DUBLIN

CONOR O’DWYER
TRINITY COLLEGE DUBLIN

MATTHEW WALSH
UNIVERSITY ULSTER ELKS

2020 Flag Football Season Cancelled

American Football Ireland has taken the decision to cancel the 2020 flag football season in its entirety following the Irish Governments announcement earlier this week regarding all Irish counties entering level 3 restrictions. Results from any games played in the 2020 season will be null and void.

We understand that participants will be disappointed, particularly after the season got underway in many parts of Ireland, but the risk to our members welfare has become too great with the latest resurgence of COVID-19.

Those who have purchased flag football membership for the 2020 season will have their membership extended for the 2021 flag football season. If there are any queries regarding this, please direct them via email to brian@americanfootball.ie

Training within clubs can continue in line with Government restrictions and clubs risk assessments. For further information on restrictions, please see gov.ie

Flag Football 2020 Season Update

PREMIER DIVISION

There are no changes to the teams in each conference. The Northern Conference will kick off this Saturday as planned in Craigavon. Southern Conference matches are postponed until the 10th October at the earliest.

DIVISION ONE

Teams in each conference have been adjusted – please see updated conferences below. The Northern and Central Conferences will kick off this Saturday, with Southern Conference matches postponed until the 10th October at the earliest.

Northern Conference

  • Antrim Jets
  • Belfast Trojans Dev
  • Causeway Giants
  • Donegal Derry Vipers
  • Downpatrick Saints
  • UU Elks

Central Conference

  • Cill Dara Reapers
  • Galway Warriors
  • Louth Mavericks Dev
  • Westmeath Minotaurs
  • WIT Vikings

Southern Conference

  • Dublin City Quetzals
  • Dublin Rebels
  • North Dublin Pirates
  • South Dublin Panthers
  • UCD

NOTES

  • The AFI Flag Football Committee are providing constant updates to designated representatives from each team. If you are a member of a team and have a query, please contact your team representative first.
  • No spectators are permitted at games due to COVID-19 regulations. AFI personnel will be at each venue to enforce.

Coronavirus Update – August

Yesterday evening, the Irish Government introduced new measures. As a result, all fixtures scheduled for this coming weekend have been postponed. No games will take place until the government has given the green light which will be the 13th September at the earliest.

Furthermore, no practice sessions should take place unless it meets the new guidelines set out below:

  • strict avoidance of gatherings, including social gatherings, before or after events.
  • strict adherence to 2 metre physical distancing before and after events during breaks in play, on the sidelines and avoidance of team huddles.
  • limits of 15 apply to groups outside including training sessions .There should be no mixing between groups.

Teams based in Offaly, Laois or Kildare must NOT engage in contact practice sessions. Non-contact sessions are permitted.

For more information, please refer to this gov.ie update.

Teams based in Northern Ireland may continue to practice as normal as no new restrictions have been introduced.

If you have any queries please contact your clubs. Club managers please contact your relevant Director of Youth/Flag Football with any scheduling queries.

Brian Cleary, Commissioner, American Football Ireland

Find Your Closest Flag Football Club

Flag Football is a version of American Football played without the contact element (similar to tag rugby). Flag Football is played as a mixed sport (males and females) for ages 16 and above. Select your county/closest county from the list below to see Flag Football clubs in that county and contact them to find out more about how to start playing:

SportNI Safeguarding Children and Young People – Online Workshops Now Available

Sport Northern Ireland have launched their new online version of the Safeguarding Children and Young People course. This will allow Northern Ireland coaches and volunteers to gain the required safeguarding certification they need to coach/volunteer with persons under the age of 18 (flag and youth football). The first dates have just been announced – please find these and further information at http://www.sportni.net/clubs-coaching/safeguarding.

Spaces are limited so if you as a coach or volunteer need this certification, please sign up as soon as possible.

Quick reminder that coaches and volunteers must also be vetted (find out how to here: https://www.americanfootball.ie/governance/vetting/).

Statements Of Intent (Flag & Youth)

A reminder to all clubs that statements of intent (non-binding) to compete in the 2020 flag and/or youth seasons should be sent to AFI by the deadlines set below:

  • For flag football, by 8pm on Thursday 18th June. This should be sent to robbie_ca@americanfootball.ie
  • For youth football, by 8pm on Monday 22nd June. This should be sent to bill@americanfootball.ie

Start A Flag Football Team

Have you ever thought of starting your own American football club? Perhaps you are part of a club that doesn’t yet have a flag football team? Starting a flag football team is relatively simple which can reap huge benefits – this article will tell you the fundamentals of starting a flag football team.

Why Start A Flag Football Team?

Flag football is one of the most fun and challenging non-contact sports there is. It is similar to tag rugby – rather than a physical tackle, the players flag (tag) must be pulled which signals a tackle. This therefore takes the physical side of football out and focuses more on skill.

For a new club, it is a cost-effective way to play competitive football as well as an excellent starting block for developing the club – this could be to build the flag football programme and introduce more flag football teams (second team etc) or to develop the club and introduce a kitted team – there is a huge scope of development opportunities!

For established clubs, adding a flag football team to your club can attract more members as it appeals to a wider audience as well as provide a way for your club members to stay engaged in football during the kitted off season. It is also an excellent opportunity to introduce new people to the sport, who then build on the fundamentals they learn in flag football which allows them to feel more comfortable if they decide to try kitted football.

Finally, flag football is a sport for all. The AFI leagues allow for males and females aged 16+ to play, and with the Irish Wolfhounds flag programme being rebooted, there is even the chance to represent Ireland!

What Is Needed To Start A Flag Football Team?

What makes a club is the people behind it. For new clubs, we recommend assigning a chairperson, a treasurer, and a secretary at a minimum to help with the functions of the club. A head coach will need to be appointed at a very minimum whilst we also encourage other coaches to be assigned e.g. offensive co-ordinator, defensive co-ordinator. AFI provide coaching courses throughout the year that will allow coaches to gain certification. Volunteers are always great to have in positions such as videographers (for game review and see where to improve on) and photographers (to help with your social media presence). When it comes to players, we would recommend having game day squads of at least 10 players – flag football in Ireland is played 5v5. This allows for substitutions in instances of injury etc.

Equipment wise, you will need footballs, flags and cones (of which our partners at Football America UK sell starter packs) at a minimum. For competitive matches, all players will need jerseys that are of the same colour and style and which have numbers. Shorts with no pockets are also mandatory (to reduce the chance of injury).

Who Do I Contact For More Information?

Contact the Director of Flag Football Robbie Caldwell at robbie_ca@americanfootball.ie.

2020 AFI Flag Football Season

Preparations are underway for the 2020 AFI Flag Football season, which will start in August. Following the re-brand of the association to American Football Ireland, there have been changes made to the official names of the flag football leagues as follow:

The Emerald Bowl Conference, premier league of flag football in Ireland, is now known as the AFI Flag Premier Division, where the teams will compete for Emerald Bowl VII.

The Glas Bowl Conference will now be called the AFI Flag Division One, where the teams will compete for Glas Bowl II.

If you are interested in entering a new flag football team or would like to join an existing one, please contact us via our contact form here.

New Associate Member Clubs

At the recent SGM, 8 flag football clubs were made associate members of our association. We would like to extend a warm welcome to each and look forward to seeing their progress in the future:

  • Edenderry Eagles​
  • Dublin Bay Raptors​
  • UCC​
  • Ulster Elks​
  • Downpatrick Saints​
  • Norton Wasps​
  • MU Hurricanes​
  • Cork City Outlaws​

Further details of the SGM will be released at a later date.

Wolfhounds Flag Football – Coaching Staff Announced

With the recent announcement of the reboot of the National Flag Football programme and the appointment of Coach Poznanski as the Head Coach of both the Wolfhounds Flag Football men’s and women’s teams, it is only fitted for Coach Poznanski to pick a crew of experienced coaches to work with in building two competitive teams to take on other National Flag Football teams in an exhibition tournament in the autumn (2020, details TBC) with the ultimate aim to enter both teams in the IFAF European Championships in 2021.

Without further ado, the Wolfhounds Flag Football Coaching Crew.

Coach Poznanski (GP), while being a keen follower of American Football for more than twenty five years and a fan of sport in general, did not get his first taste of flag football until seven years ago – after being involved in an array of sports ranging from Olympic handball, basketball, or volleyball, amongst others. He had his first try for the Dublin Vipers (formerly Dublin Titans), was hooked right then and hasn’t looked back. While playing for the Dublin Vipers, he took on the position of Director of Flag Football for IAFA from which he recently stepped down from five years of service. Alongside being an IAFA director, Coach GP also coached the DIT Spartans, UCD and South Dublin Panthers flag football teams while also working as a Coach Developer for Sport Ireland for the past 2 years.

Coach Burrows is a sports and well-being coach with 14 years of experience working with recreational, performance pathway, Olympic, Paralympic, and professional athletes. She is currently the Player Development Manager for the Professional Footballers Association of Ireland where she offers career planning and well-being support to professional soccer players. In her spare time Emma is the assistant head coach to the South Dublin Panthers senior kitted team.

Coach Zboyan (pronounced zee-boyan) hails from Seattle (Washington, USA) and is an avid Seahawks supporter.  Coach Zboyan played both kitted and flag football throughout his school and college years. After moving to Ireland in 2012, Todd kicked off his Irish flag football experience with a two-year stint with the Dublin Vipers which included a National Championship winning Emerald Bowl III in 2017. Coach Zboyan then went on to establish the Dublin Bay Raptors in 2018 currently playing in the Emerald Bowl league, leading the team as head coach and quarterback.

Coach McCann began his journey in American Football with the Dublin Dragons back in 2013 and has never looked back. Heavily involved in the re-brand and restructure of the team, he’s one of the founding members of the South Dublin Panthers. In that time, he’s been involved with both the kitted football team and the flag football team as a player, coach and team manager. In 2019 he took over as General Manager of the Panthers and became a defensive coach for the kitted team, helping them to their first Shamrock Bowl Final in their history. He also took over as Head Coach of the flag team, leading them to their most successful flag season to date.

Coach Shaw is a Dallas Cowboys afficionado from Ballyclare, Northern Ireland. Coach Shaw has been involved in American Football since 2015 when he became Head Coach of the Coleraine Elks Flag Football team. After leaving the Elks Coach Shaw became involved with the Belfast Trojans as a positional coach with their kitted team winning a national championship with Shamrock Bowl XXXIII in 2019. He also established the Belfast Trojans first flag football team and was team manager for their inaugural season.

Coach Barnewell was a late starter to playing American Football at 37. Having previously been part of league winning teams in soccer and tag rugby. Playing both special teams and defence for the South Dublin Panthers kitted team he had his season capped playing in Shamrock Bowl XXXIII. With a passion for health and fitness, ‘Barney’ then took the reigns as strength and conditioning coach while also playing centre for the Panthers flag football team as they registered their most successful season to date.

20×20: Helen Smyth

Next up in our 20×20 series is Trojans flag football player Helen Smyth. Helen started her football career with the UUC Elks before moving to Belfast and joining the Trojans. The current Trojans 1st team captain is also planning on taking up coaching.

What sparked your interest in American football?

“My friend was the coach of the Ulster Elks flag team in my final year of university and until then I didn’t even know American football was a thing. I went along just to see what it was like and didn’t expect to love it as much as I did, and I’ve been playing ever since!”

How did you get involved in your club?

“I joined the Belfast Trojans two years ago. They have regular try out days which I went to and I already knew a couple of people in the club so when I moved to Belfast, it was an easy choice.”

What roles do you currently hold in your club?

“I am the defensive captain of the Trojans 1sts team and I am also on the committee. I was injured at the start of the season so took on more of a coaching/play calling role. I’ve never been so stressed in my life but I actually did enjoy being on the side-lines, so I am planning on doing my level 0 coaching course to get started.”

What is the American football environment like in Ireland?

“There’s a really good balance between the sport being fun and competitive but not too serious. Everyone is really encouraging, and despite a few rivalries, there is good sportsmanship between all the teams.”

What advice would you have for a fellow female interested in getting involved in American football?

“Just go for it! It’s one of the most fun sports I’ve been involved in. There’s such a range of players from people who have played kitted for years to people who have never played a team sport before so there is nothing to be worried about!”

New Director of Flag Football Appointed

IAFA are delighted to announce that Robert Caldwell has been appointed as the new Director of Flag Football and will officially start the role on 1st January 2020. Robert will be working with outgoing director Guillaume Poznanski in a hand-over phase throughout December 2019. Guillaume will begin his new role as Head Coach of the Wolfhounds Flag Football on 1st January 2020.

Robert (L) pictured with former NFL kicker Nick Novak (R)

Robert has been a member of IAFA for 8 years and was one of the founding members of the Louth Mavericks. Having played both kitted and flag football, Robert was appointed Head Coach of the Mavericks flag football programme 2 years ago and was instrumental in helping the Mavericks field two flag teams this year whilst also a member of the IAFA flag football committee in 2019.

Robert (bottom middle) pitcured with members from the Mavericks Flag Football squad

His main objectives are to increase participation (particularly females), improve officiating and reduce forfeits. Welcome aboard Robert and we wish you all the very best in your role!

Significant Increase In Membership 2018/19

2018/19 has been a stellar year for IAFA that’s seen a 31% increase in unique membership, with particularly strong growth at youth level, in female membership and officials. These statistics formed part of our Commissioners (interim, Brian Cleary) report at yesterday’s AGM.

Year
Unique Members
% +/-
2017
1314
+7%
2018
1256
-4%
2019
1641
+31%

Overall memberships totalled 1774 – this includes members who took one more than one membership e.g. registered as an official and player.

Year
Overall Memberships
% +/-
2017
1567

2018
1635
+4%
2019
1774
+9%

Youth football had huge growth this year, thanks to the addition of four new teams to the youth league. Youth football is key to the future of our sport and whilst IAFA is pleased with this increase, IAFA will continue to push this growth and encourages more clubs to join the youth league in 2020.

Officiating was another department that seen considerable growth. There have been changes made to the operations of the officiating department, including 5 new personnel appointed to help improve standards across the whole department. The success of this can be clearly seen, with an 81% rise in the amount of trained and registered officials.

Year
Youth Kitted
Officials
Other
2017
70
78
173
2018
63
75
44
2019
123
136
106

IAFA is delighted with the increase in female membership, with members taking on roles across all areas including kitted and flag players, coaches, officials and volunteers (club and NGB level). IAFA has worked hard to increase the visibility of American football to females as part of Sport Irelands 20×20 strategy. IAFA will continue to strategize to increase female membership and welcomes all feedback to help with that strategy.

Slight decreases were noted in the number of senior kitted players and coaches – IAFA are working hard to address this to ensure that these increase next year.

Year
Coaches
Senior Kitted
Flag
2017
99
956
191
2018
125
1006
322
2019
110
968
331

Statistics collected using the IAFA registration system (Azolve).

National Flag Football Programme: Head Coach Appointed

Following on from our National Flag Football Programme Reboot announcement, IAFA are pleased to announce that Guillaume Poznanski will officially take up the role of Head Coach on 1st January 2020.

Guillaume brings with him a wealth of coaching experience as well as having spent 5 years as the IAFA Director of Flag Football. The full coaching staff will be announced in due course. We are very excited that the national flag programme is back and look forward to seeing the male and female teams in action very soon.

GBC & EBC 2019 Final Week Preview

Time flies and we are now in the final week of the regular season games for both the EBC and GBC 2019 seasons.

This being the penultimate preview of 2019 we thought we’d start with the inaugural GBC season. It all started with thirteen teams but only the top six will claim the right to compete in the playoff and maybe a shot at becoming Glas Bowl 1 champions.

A few teams have already booked their ticket to the playoff although without a definitive position yet. The Cork City Outlaws (5-1) and the South Dublin Panthers (4-1-1) currently 1st and 2nd, will be going to the playoff on the 2nd of November. However, since they have no remaining fixtures, they will only have to wait and see to find out what seeding they will finishing at.

On their trail (although already playoff bound) and with two games left to play, the Craigavon Cowboys 2nd (4-0) and Louth Mavericks 2nd (4-0) are a in a good position to take the top seeds if they win both their games with the added bonus that their last game will be against each other (which is our pick for the GBC game of the week). Now, that being said if both teams failed to win their first game and tied their second or even tie both games, they would still be in the top four teams.

The real excitement will come from further down the table. The West Dublin Rhinos (3-2-1) will be on the edge of their seat hoping for the Maynooth Hurricanes (2-2) or Belfast Trojans 2nd (2-2) to lose at least one of their games which would then seal their playoff ticket. If both Hurricanes and Trojans were to win two games then both would go to the playoff.

Now deeper in the table, the Ulster Elks (1-2-1), UCC Raiders 2nd (1-3) and Downpatrick Saints (1-3) could be giving us some upset. If the Hurricanes and Trojans were to loose both their games and the Elks were to win both their games then the Elks would go to the playoff as 5th or 6th seed (tie-breaker would apply against the Rhinos). If the Elks, the Hurricanes and Trojans were to lose both games and UCC were to win both their games then they would take the 6th seed. Same scenario for the Saints if all four teams currently above them were to loose both their games.

All in all, nothing is certain yet which should make for some great games this Saturday at the Dundalk IT Sports Grounds from 11am.

Now for the EBC. The EBC is the Premier League of Flag Football in Ireland and as such we have some of the best teams and players in the country battling it out to claim the sought title of Emerald Bowl Champions or National Champions.

Just like the GBC, it started with twelve teams, who were the top twelve teams from the EBC 2018 season. Just like the GBC, only the top six teams will be eligible to compete in the playoff with a shot at the championship at the Sport Ireland Campus on the 2nd of November. We would like to point out that even though this is the “premier league” of flag football, we did not go through the season unscathed as the season was plagued with a string of forfeits – which will be addressed at the end of the season.

With that out of the way – what’s cooking in the EBC?

Well the season is basically over for UCD (2-5-1), Meath Bulldogs (0-8) and Dublin Rebels (0-8).

Current National Champions Craigavon Cowboys (6-0) and Emerald Bowl 5 runners-up Louth Mavericks (6-0) are seating comfortably at 1st and 2nd and have already booked their ticket to the playoff although we do not yet know which will be topping the group. Mavericks have two tough fixtures against 3rd seed Edenderry Eagles (5-2) and 7th seed Trinity (3-3) with Trinity playing it all out to make the playoff a second year in a row. Some cracking games to watch there.

The Cowboys, being a competitive team, will try to keep they clean record and grab the highly sought after 8-0 perfect season against the 8th seed UCC Raiders and 9th seed Westmeath Minotaurs (also first ever Emerald Bowl champions in 2015). Both teams are on the hunt for a much needed 6th seed to make the playoff.

This is the Dublin Bay Raptors’ (4-2) second EBC appearance, and while they came very close to make the playoff last year for EBC 2018, they are now in a good position to reach the tops seeds if only they make sure to win two tough fixtures against Trinity and Belfast Trojans (4-3). The Raptors, Trojans and Knights are all on 12 points but the Knights have no fixtures left to play and while currently seating at 6th, are on the fence and will have to wait and hope that both Trinity and UCC lose both their games as one win would be enough for either Trinity or UCC to make the playoff as the Knights lost a game against both teams and would lose on head-to-head.

Some exciting games ahead to look forward to kicking off at 11am at the Newbridge College sports ground.

Good luck to all!!

GBC 2019 Week 3 Preview

Since GBC Week 2 games had to be postponed to the end of the season, we will now focus on the GBC 2019 week 3 games in Cork. Twelve teams and twelve games on the same day.

It has been a few weeks since the week 1 fixtures so as a refresher – the Cowboys, Outlaws, Panthers and Mavericks finished 2-0 on the day followed by the Razorbacks with 1-1. Since the season is a six game season, every single game counts and the current top four teams have taken a very good option on a playoff berth.

Now, with that being said, a few teams will be starting their season this Saturday and could change the entire picture.

Veterans Ulster Elks, Maynooth Hurricanes, and and newcomers UCC and first IAFA Corporate Flag team Norton Wasps, will have a chance to make their mark on the season.

There is also a chance for bottom of the table Saints, Trojans, Rhinos and Warriors to get some points on the board and hopefully help  them reach the playoff zone.

Top seed Cowboys will be on a bye this week so it will be an opportunity for anyone to take the top spot from them (at least temporarily).

Quick reminder, only the top six teams at the end of the regular season will make it to the playoff and maybe the GB1 game on the 2nd November.

You can find all fixtures from this page Flag Football | League Details | GBC.

Week 3 teams are the Belfast Trojans, Cork City Outlaws, UCC, Maynooth Hurricanes, Norton Wasps, Louth Mavericks, South Dublin Panthers, West Dublin Rhinos, Belfast Razorbacks, Galway Warriors, Downpatrick Saints and Ulster Elks.

This week, we had the pleasure to chat with team managers and head coaches from the Norton Wasps, the Maynooth Hurricanes and the Ulster Elks.

NOrton WASPS - VINCENT BAR, TEAM MANAGER

GBC_Flag Football Gloves_Wasps

IAFA: What are your goals for the season?

VB: Have fun will be our main goal for the season, we are just starting out and hoping to get people in work to join us next year for a bigger season.

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

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VB: There was an initiative launched in work and the goal was to provide a platform for employees to bring ideas forward and if there was enough interest, to bring the idea to life. Ideas could be anything, from clubs (artistic, sports, board game,..), to process or skill improvement. Flag Football was put forward as we saw the IAFA was starting the Glas Bowl Conference league for newer teams and would be the perfect place to start and have fun. From there, the idea of a Flag football was up-voted then pitched to the committee and decision was made to start the team, the Norton Wasps were born.

IAFA: How has your team prepared for this season?

VB: We have trained on a regular basis, working on basics skills, how the game plays, etc… we kept it simple for this year and we will work more in depth next year.

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IAFA: Who are your players to watch?

VB: We will keep that as a secret…. you better watch out and not get stung!

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?

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blackboard-wasps

VB: We have few experienced players in the team and their experience might give us the edge.

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

VB: Not this year, in the next few seasons it might change but as answered above we are here to have fun this time around.

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

VB: Don’t think to much and go out there to have fun!

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MAYNOOTH HURRICANES - JOE KINAHAN, TEAM MANAGER

GBC_Flag Football Gloves_Hurricanes

IAFA: What are your goals for the season?

JKI think our team has always had the pieces to be too contenders, our problem has always been numbers. With the depth we have this year, and the fact that everyone from last year has developed further as football players, we’re kinda looking at this season as a disappointment if we don’t make the playoffs.

IAFA: Second season as the Hurricanes with another three as the Maynooth Phantoms, do you think your team is a strong contender this season?

JKIt’s definitely experience that gives us the edge. As you said, there’s a lot of brand new teams and development squads in this league that are used as a learning ground for rookies in their contact team. For all but a handful of us, flag football is all that the Hurricanes know. We feel that gives us the best chance of succeeding.

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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?

JKLooking at our schedule there’s not an awful lot of teams that we have played before, let alone teams that have 

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blackboard-hurricanes

had games of any kind before this season. Usually we know what to expect from teams and work on schemes based on that. This season we’ve worked on what we do best as opposed to our opponents. I think because of that our new guys and girls have learnt a lot quicker than past versions of this side have.

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

JKI genuinely believe we’re full of weapons on both sides of the ball. There are too many teams that focus on getting the ball to one guy to make plays – I have no problem letting teams know that we will be spreading the ball around because we have the talent to do that; and I have no problem letting teams know that everyone on our defence is capable of some special plays if you give them an opportunity to do so.

IAFA: Who are your players to watch?

JKAs a coach I’m thinking of things a little differently, sure, since there’s only a small handful of games to make playoffs. As president I’m thinking of things a little differently because it means travel works differently, and training work differently. As a player, I am (as I’m sure everyone else is) seeing six games of flag football that are played just like any other game of flag football.

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

JKAnother cliche; have fun, above all else, then worry about winning. I think as teams we need to realise that sometimes we don’t play flag football for the right reasons – being blown out and running up the score can sometimes end up being as fun as each other. If we’re able to keep the banter levels the same before, during, and after game day,  even with a 6-7 hour round trip, and regardless of results, then we’re playing for the right reasons. I want to make sure every Hurricane remembers that before heading down to Cork. Winning is always great, but it shouldn’t come at the cost of it being a chore either.

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ULSTER ELKS - DANIEL KASSIR, TEAM MANAGER
GBC_Flag Football Gloves_Elks

IAFA: What are your goals for the season?

DK: We plan to try and make playoffs and get back into the EBC for the 2020 season!

IAFA: Fourth season for the Elks, tell us a bit about how your approach this season?

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DK: Our approach has always been the same. Bring positivity and hard work to the field. Try our best and have fun.

IAFA: First games for the Elks this weekend, how has your team prepared for the season?

DK: We have trained three times a week since college started to get ready. We have been recruiting hard and working on plays for the new season.

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

DK: I would say that the Craigavon Cowboys 2nd team provides the biggest challenge this year if we meet them in playoffs.

IAFA: Since most teams in the GBC are 

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blackboard-elks

new or in development, what would make your team have the edge over other teams in the GBC?

DK: Since we are a college team we would have younger players with more energy and enthusiasm. We also have two players from North America on the team which could give us an edge.

IAFA: Who are your players to watch?

DK: Players to watch are Reece England for his leadership and skill, Jamie Totten for his defensive talent and awareness, and Alex Hancock for his great route running and catching ability.

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?

DKWell you can always have fun without winning so we will try and do both but not focus on one or the other too much.
 

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

DK: My advice to the team is to go out there and try your absolute best. No less. And have fun. Play for your teammates and play for yourselves!

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EBC 2019 Week 3 Preview

Time for some Flag Football and week 3 of the EBC 2019 season.

Week 2 saw collegiate teams kicking off their season with UCD and UCC finishing 0-2 and Trinity 1-1 on the day. Trinity, who reached the Emerald Bowl 5 semi finals last year, started strong with a 66-6 score on their first game only to lose by a mere one point (32-33) against another EB5 playoff team, the Belfast Trojans.

Northern teams have started their season strong with all three taking three of the top five seeds. 1st seed and current national champions, Craigavon Cowboys, seem to be the team to beat with a perfect 4-0 start to their season. They are topping the table with both the best offence, with an average 48 points scored per game, and the second best defence with an average 11.5 points scored against them. Only the Raptors, who sit at third place, who have a better points against average of 8 points per game and therefore the best defence in the league.

EB4 champions, Edenderry Eagles, failed to convince on week 2 with two straight losses against top seed Cowboys (43-26) and number 2 seed Belfast Knights (36-26). They have a tough schedule ahead if they want to make the playoff while currently seating one position short of making the cut.

Quick reminder, only the top six teams at the end of the regular season will make it to the playoff wiht a shot at the National Championship on the 2nd of November.

You can find all fixtures from this page Flag Football | EBC.

Week 3 teams are the Belfast Knights, Belfast Trojans, Craigavon Cowboys, Dublin Bay Raptors, UCC, UCD, Trinity and Westmeath Minotaurs.

This week, we had the pleasure to chat with team managers and head coaches from the Dublin Bay Raptors, the Belfast Knights and the Edenderry Eagles.

Dublin Bay RAPTORS - TODD ZBOYAN, HEAD COACH

EBC_Flag Football Gloves_Raptors

IAFA: Second year competing 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 2019 season?

TZIt was very disappointing to not make the playoffs last year but we took away a lot of lessons from our first year in the league and have tried to apply them

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 to the current season.

IAFA: What are your goals for this season?

TZOur main goal is to win the EBC.  Secondary to that is to keep improving and having fun.

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?

TZWe really love the two league structure put in place this year, it gives

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blackboard-raptors

real legitimacy to the sport and we hope it will help grow the sport.  We competed against most of the same teams last year so we’re really just focused on playing our game.

IAFA: You are currently positioned 3rd in the league with another four games to play. Have you changed your strategy since the start of the season?

TZOur strategy hasn’t changed, we’re happy with the position we’re in at the moment and feel we’ve put ourselves on a good place to get a playoff spot this year.

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?

TZAll the teams in the EBC have the potential to win games….”any given Sunday”.  We had a particularly close game against the Cowboys last year and are looking forward to the rematch this week.  We’ve had competitive games against UCD in the past, they’re always a fun team to play.  And we’re looking forward to playing Trinity in week 5, as we haven’t played them before.

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

TZ: The majority of our players have immense football knowledge and experience.  This gives us an advantage coming up with a game plan and also being able to adapt that plan during the game to take advantage of the other teams strengths and weaknesses.

IAFA: Who are your players to watch?

TZI can’t really single any one player out, as we’ve really fostered a team first attitude with the Raptors.  Everybody knows the job they need to do and isn’t afraid to ask for help if they’re struggling.

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?

TZFemale participation is important for the growth of the sport.  We’ve had at least one female player on the team since it’s inception and will continue to look for more females players. 

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

TZ: The National Programme starting up again is very exciting for the sport.  We have a few players who played on the National Team a few years back and we’re able to draw on their experience to help the team.  Our players focus is on making the playoff and winning the EBC.  If they get selected for the Wolfhounds, that’s just icing on the cake.

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

TZSame as always….play hard, play error free, do your job, and have fun.

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BELFAST KNIGHTS - KRIS MCCOMBE , TEAM MANAGER

EBC_Flag Football Gloves_Knights

IAFA: Second year competing in the EBC. You made bang reaching the playoff last year just short of making the finals. Tell us a bit about how this all sunk in and about your preparation for the 2019 season?

KMCWe’ve come a long way from the five guys that played in People’s Park last year. Once we won our first game that day, momentum just grew and grew. It

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 felt great to make the playoff and that’s something we’ll be looking to repeat, and hopefully with a better outcome this year. Being in the EBC means the games are now consistently tough and we have needed to up ours. Our players are hungry to build upon our success from last year.

IAFA: What are your goals for this season?

KMCOur goals for the season are the same as I suspect all the teams are; to win the Emerald Bowl. We’ve made a solid start to the season and hope to continue that through the last four games.

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?

KMCThe stratification of the teams 

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blackboard-knights

into the EBC and GBC has certainly made a difference in competitiveness. We knew that this year would be harder than last and our players understand that. We’re training harder, running more complex concepts and not taking any game for granted. With eight games this season as opposed to ten last year, there’s far less room for error. We are continuing to improve week on week. The great thing about the team is that we can be confident that if one person goes out, the next person in will be able to do the job as well if not better.

IAFA: You are currently positioned 2nd in the league with another three games to go. Have you changed your strategy since the start of the season in order to assure you are in the top 6 teams by season end?

KMCWe don’t really think about our league position at this stage. Just going to focus on one game at a time and play ours. If we do thatthen the wins will come.

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?

KMCThe Cowboys are the team to beat again this year. We came away with a draw against them last season and we’re hoping to get three points this time around.

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

KMCWe’re a very adaptable team. If things aren’t working we can change very quickly to fix it. We also have incredible coaches at the helm who have been around this game longer than I’ve been born!

IAFA: Who are your players to watch?

KMC: It’s very hard to pick players to watch because they all have so much quality!  I would say we have at least five players who are Wolfhounds material. If I had to name a couple though, I’d say watch Josh Davis. He’s been quietly racking up the touchdowns the last few games. Paul Crothers is a menace at DB in the kitted game and that has translated really well to flag. Michael Harland is a brilliant two-way player, having picked up interceptions and touchdowns throughout the season. Jordan Clinton has ridiculous speed and route running which has translated into a lot of points. Chris Muir is one of our new guys who has become an excellent tackle and blitzer. I believe he has three sacks on the season so far. We can’t underestimate the impact our female players have had either. Amber Perry and Lauren Purton both have experience in BAFA (British American Football Association) and are excellent on the defensive side.

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?

KMCWe were able to recruit a couple of female players from our Freshers Fair stall last year who have stayed with us this year. The hope is to continue to recruit female players and eventually get to the point where we can field an all-female squad in the near future.

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

KMCOur guys are very excited about the Nnational Team forming and I believe it is bringing out the best in them. It kind of works hand in hand. They play well on the field, they get noticed and we win games because of it. Like I said before, we have at least five or six guys and girls who I believe could be starters on the Wolfhounds Flag Football squads.

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

KMCNever underestimate the opponent. Flag Football can be a crazy sport and it’s important to treat every team as the toughest team in the league.

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EDENDERRY EAGLES - ROBBIE TIGHE, TEAM MANAGER
EBC_Flag Football Gloves_Eagles

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

RTNaturally we were disappointed  in missing out on a final placement but the better team won on the day. 

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We’ve increased our plays and worked on our communications amongst ourselves as players.

IAFA: What are your goals for this season?

RTSame as every season. Enjoy every game. Have fun. Score points and win!

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?

RT: We haven’t actually changed our stance or mindset. A lot of these teams we’ve met at some stage over the last few seasons. So we view every team as dangerous but beatable. It can be anyone’s on the day.

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blackboard-eagles

IAFA: You are currently positioned 7th in the league with another four games to play. Have you changed your strategy since the start of the season? 

RTThat would be telling!!

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?

RTThe cowboys are probably the biggest challenge so far. Lads play well and are extremely skill-full. And able to adapt to different roles. They’ll be the team to watch out for.

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

RTWe don’t take the game too seriously and go out to enjoy it. Plus most of our players are well experienced in flag football. With several of us having gone to the jags tourney last year and finishing 3rd. We’ve got some good players 

IAFA: Who are your players to watch?
 

RTPretty much all of them. Can’t count any of them to not be troublesome for the opposition.

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?

RTWe’ve reached out to local communities and have an open invitation to all players male and female. While there has been some interest it hasn’t really taken traction yet. This is something we hope to address for the next season.

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

RTWe’re in a tough spot on the table at the moment but I can depend on the team to give 100%. The focus won’t change which is to compete, play fair and represent the team with pride. 

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

RT: Relax, smile, get that flag, get the TD. Most of all enjoy it.

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IAFA Flag Football Directorship Announcement

It is with great regret that we inform you that our Director of Flag Football, Guillaume Poznanski, will be stepping down from the position at the end of the year.

IAFA President Orla McAleese “Guillaume­ has transformed flag football in Ireland over the past 5 years, bringing it from a small league with a handful of teams to a 2 tiered nationwide league system with 25 teams. The work and dedication that he has given to bring it to this standard has been outstanding. He has worked tirelessly with his committee for this sport and has been a true ambassador for Flag Football in Ireland.

On behalf of the board and the entire association, we would like to thank Guillaume for all his work – his volunteering to have a flag football to where it is today in Ireland.

Guillaume will not be going anywhere, he will still be part of the association in another capacity in the coming months.”

Applications for the role are now open here

EBC 2019 Week 2 Preview

Time for some Flag Football and week 2 of the IAFA EBC 2019 season.

Week 1 started well with three EBC 2018 playoff teams (Cowboys, Eagles, Mavericks) already 2-0 and scoring a whole 224 of the total 419 points scored on the day. Some teams were not as lucky but still have room to improve for a shot at the playoff.

Week 2 will see collegiate teams kicking off their season. Returning veterans UCD, EBC18 semi-finalists Trinity, and second timer UCC will have a chance to make their mark on the season.

Week 2 will also see some great games to watch for but our pick of the week is the Eagles v Cowboys game at 11am. The two-time and current champions started their season strong with the lowest points scored against them (a total of 3!!). EB IV champions Edenderry Eagles also started strong with a hard fought 50-44 win over EB I champions Westmeath Minotaurs.

You can find all fixtures from this page Flag Football | EBC. Week 2 teams are the Belfast Knights, Belfast Trojans, Craigavon Cowboys, Dublin Bay Raptors, Edenderry Eagles, Meath Bulldogs, UCC, UCD, Trinity and Westmeath Minotaurs.

This week, we had the pleasure to chat with team managers from the three college teams playing this Saturday. We talked to David Healy, team manager of the UCC Raiders; Steven Culligan, team manager of UCD and John Quirke, team manager of Trinity.

UCC - DAVID HEALY, TEAM MANAGER

GBC_Flag Football Gloves_UCC Raiders

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 EBC 2019 season?

DH: It was obviously really disappointing to miss the playoff last year, especially in the manner that we did as it was so close in the end. We felt like we had a

good shot at winning had we made the playoff but we started out slowly last season so with that in mind, we’ll be aiming to brush the dust off and get off to a better start this year.

IAFA: What is your main goal this season?

DH: All eyes are firmly on the prize this year. At a minimum we expect to make the playoff and anything can happen from there.

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?

DH: We’ve entered a team in the GBC to allow our squad to grow and develop at

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a sustainable rate. This also allows us to take the gloves off and put out our strongest team available in the EBC. We have a plethora of talent in the squad so we’re looking forward to pushing ourselves against the best.

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?

DH: We’ve got fixtures against current Champions, Cowboys, and EB IV Champions, Eagles, who are always going to be tough. We’re also looking forward to seeing the Raptors again as we’ve had a few good games with them over the last few years.

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

DH: We definitely have an impressive level of camaraderie in the group. Every player on the squad is on the same page and everyone’s here to enjoy themselves whilst playing the sport.

IAFA: Who are your players to watch?

DH: Jahn Dasini is one of those players who’s a threat to score anytime they touch the ball, Jack Fagan is one of the top dual threat QBs in the country and James Hogan is really solid on both sides of the ball, they’d be our most prominent players but we’re really happy with the strength in depth that we have.

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?

DH: Absolutely, it’d be an incredible experience and it’d be great to see the standards of play outside of Ireland.

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?

DH: We’ve had a strong female presence in the club since we started out three years ago, and we continue to recruit new members around campus and make them feel welcome on the squad at every available opportunity.

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?

DH: I don’t think so, as long as we’re wearing UCC jerseys, every member of the squad is playing for the team. We’ll definitely be encouraging our players to try out for the national program at the end of the season to get some fresh perspectives on the game and compete on a national level.

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

DH: Know your job, do your job and enjoy the game.

UCD - STEVEN CULLIGAN, TEAM MANAGER

EBC_Flag Football Gloves_UCD

IAFA: Sixth 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 EBC 2019 season?

SC: Last year was viewed a success for our flag program as we were able to up skill our new rookie players that were added to the team through flag

games versus very good opposition. We had a tough division last year and narrowly missed out on the playoff. We would hope to take a step back into the playoff through the coming year.

IAFA: What are your goals for this season?

SC: Our goals for the season remain the same. To win as many games as we can, grow the sport through our player base and hope everyone takes the football skills learned to our contact 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 in teams in the country?

IS: From a preparation standpoint we 

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begin the year with so many new athletes that we have to teach the basics. We are confident that our young, hungry group of rookies will step up and support our established flag players in making a playoff push.

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?

SC: The Dublin Bay Raptors are always a fun team to play. Highly competitive and a great bunch of lads.

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

SC: A new group of young hungry players.

IAFA: Who are your players to watch?

SC: Our players to watch would be our rookies, see how the perform and adapt to the sport. It is early at the minute but there are some young stars that are sure to emerge from the group.

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?

SC: Of course we would be interested in a champions league. The idea of competing against the best of the best is an appeal to any athlete of any 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?

SC: Our emphasis is on developing sound football players so in that regard nothing will change. If they perform well enough I am sure selectors will take notice. These things tend to look after themselves.

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

SC: Have fun, don’t be afraid to make mistake (what are a few flags anyway) and try your best. The rest will look after itself.

TRINITY - JOHN QUIRKE, Team Manager
EBC_Flag Football Gloves_Trinity

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

JQ: We were obviously all gutted with how last season ended. We didn’t adjust well enough in-game to a lot of 

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?

JQSame as everyone else in the EBC, win the bowl.

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?

JQWe’re delighted with the restructure. We only want to compete against the best. Iron sharpens iron and all that.

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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?

JQWe want to compete against the best, and at the moment that’s the holders, the Craigavon Cowboys. They’re the top team that we’re yet to face off against, so that should be a fun matchup in a couple of weeks time.

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

JQWe have a great ball hawking defense. In the regular season last year we had more picks than TDs conceded, which is something we’re proud of.

IAFA: Who are your players to watch?

JQOffensively we’re looking forward to seeing how Franklin Ume Obiekwe and Jamie Bolger get on after successful full kit rookie seasons. On the defensive side of the ball, Ger O’Halloran has been top quality for years and is looking even better this year.

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?

JQAbsolutely. We were trying to participate in an European tournament over the summer but unfortunately it didn’t work out. A Champions League style tournament would be great for the sport and definitely something we’d be interested in.

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?

JQMost of our recruitment is done over the course of freshers week on campus, so this year was the first time there was an emphasis on recruiting both men and women into the club.

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?

JQOur sole focus will be on winning each and every game. If we have some standout players who end up getting call ups – fantastic!

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

JQ: 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?

JQ: Do your job.

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