Go further in American football

The American football community in the UK is thriving, and there are many ways you can get involved.

No matter your age or experience level, there’ll be a club near you ready to welcome you and show you the ropes.

Your first step is to decide which variation of the sport you’d like to try. Contact football is the original version of the game that you’ll recognise from the NFL and Super Bowl. 

But if the helmets and pads aren’t for you, flag football is a less physical and therefore more accessible version of the game. This growing sport will even feature at the LA Olympics in 2028. 

Whichever version you want to get involved in, you can use the resources on this page to make contact with your local club or visit BAFA for more info.

Volunteers are the unsung heroes helping to grow the sport in the UK. 

If you’re handy with a flag and a whistle and look fetching in black and white, then why not consider becoming an official? 

The British American Football Referees’ Association (BAFRA) offers comprehensive training and mentorship programs for aspiring referees.

Beyond officiating, BAFA seeks dedicated volunteers in various capacities. There are numerous opportunities in administration, management, IT, and safeguarding within the broader British American Football Association (BAFA).

For more information on becoming an official or other volunteering opportunities.