Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Longhorns are keen to bolster their squad
TAYSIDE Longhorns are on the lookout for more flag football recruits.
Flag football is a non-contact form of American football, where “tackling” is performed by pulling the flag off the ball carrier instead of physically taking them down.
This means there is no need for helmets or pads, and injuries are generally less frequent. The sport is now taking off in the UK, and a big push is being made by the NFL to expand the sport into schools over the next few years, with reportedly 100,000 participants targeted.
It is well suited to those switching from rugby, as many of the skills overlap.
Tayside Longhorns, who were formed only nine months ago, are a small, family-run club, that aims to provide an entry into flag football for children and teenagers in the local area. The club are looking for new recruits between the ages of 10 and 15 years old who are interested in the sport.
Potential players may be looking for a new sport as they have tried the usual football and rugby but haven’t been able to get a place in the team.
They might not be enjoying it any more, or they just want to come and see what flag football is all about.
The game suits both genders, and all sizes, big or small – there really is a position for everyone.
With the sport now being included in the Olympics in 2028, there has never been a more exciting time to get involved in flag football.
Simon Mackin is head coach of the Dundee-based outfit and he has witnessed the benefits flag football has given the youngsters in his team.
He said: “One thing that we notice is how children grow in confidence and general wellbeing, which is a sign that we are doing something right.
“We have players that have come to us thinking that they cannot be any good, but we challenge this mindset and let them see that they actually are good and can be even better.
“Our emphasis is on having fun above all else.”
A recent tournament in Paisley saw the Longhorns finish second in a four-team group. Indeed, there was further recognition for the team when Hudson Geddes received the MVP – most valuable player – award for his outstanding performance on the day.
Tayside Longhorns meet up on Sundays at the Dawson Park astro pitches from 2-3.30pm.
Anyone wishing to get involved can email taysidelonghorns@gmail. com or get in touch through the club’s Facebook page.