Washington Commanders defensive end Efe Obada spoke exclusively to Mirror Sport to discuss Flag Football and the growing appetite for all things gridiron in the United Kingdom
Two schools emerged victorious as primary and secondary schools competed in the 2023 NFL UK Flag Football National Championships at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Flag Football is the non-contact format of American Football, and with boys and girls competing, it has become one of the fastest-growing sports around the world and is reportedly in contention to be included in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. It is easy to see why.
The sport engages people of all ages, genders, and abilities. It allows people to play the infamously physical game without the issues that come with getting hit for 60 minutes, and the NFL UK Flag Football National tournament proved to be popular.
With 19 local and regional qualification tournaments held throughout 2023, it meant 192 schools, 1,920 pupils and 384 coaches were involved across the United Kingdom. The success of the tournament showcases the growing appeal of the sport, as well as the NFL’s continued commitment to it’s development on these shores.