NCL Students Touch Down at American Flag Football Tournament

American Flag football may be a new sport for many of you. We’ve probably all heard of American Football but not the flag version. Think of tag rugby and you’re getting close. This is a version of American Football but without any physical contact. Tackling down opponents is not allowed. Instead, as in tag rugby, tackles are made by pulling off flags which the players wear on their hips. It’s a sport which has a growing amateur following with competitions held at national and international level.

An invitation to send a team to compete in a flag football event at Loughborough University was not to be missed. Students in year 7 and year 8 attended some training sessions here at the college before heading off to the event. Nobody was sure what to expect but it was a good opportunity for our students to further develop their knowledge of the game by playing competitively against other local schools.

The session started with the allocation of team names. We were chosen to represent the New York Jets and were delighted to be wearing a Jets’ jersey for our matches. Things started well for our team who drew 6-6 to Brookvale School, with a fantastic touchdown by Louie West. Our second game ended in defeat against Wreake Valley 18-6, although a fantastic touchdown was scored by Ava Dance-Brook. We went through to a quarter final game against Longfield Spencer Academy. Unfortunately, we were well beaten 18-0 in our final match.

Despite two defeats, our students absolutely loved the experience, and worked so hard in spite of the warm weather conditions. They are excited at the possibility of an after-school American Flag club next year.