Tauranga’s City Tridents American Football Club is making flag football accessible for young players.

The club has announced the return of its fees-free Peewee and Junior Flag Football programme.

The initiative is designed for children aged 8 to 14 and will run throughout the upcoming season, from October to March.

By removing financial barriers, the Tridents hope to open the door for more tamariki to experience the fun, teamwork, and skill development that flag football offers, president Alex Hartwell said.

“Flag football is an amazing entry point into American football – it’s safe, fast, and packed with action.

“We know that cost can be a barrier for families when it comes to sport, so we’re proud to make this programme free. It’s about giving every kid the chance to try something new and fall in love with the game.”

U14 team in huddle at Iron Up tournament in April. Photo / Supplied

The Tridents have already built a strong reputation on the national stage, winning multiple New Zealand titles in their first four years of competition, including the premier Open Men’s division at the 2025 National Championships.

The club now wants to extend those opportunities to the next generation.

The move comes at a time when flag football is rapidly developing across Aotearoa and internationally.

In June, New Zealand’s first age-grade national teams (U17 and U15) travelled to Los Angeles to compete on the global stage - squads that feature a strong representation from the Tridents.

“It’s such an exciting time to be involved in the sport,” said coach Kyla Connolly.

“Flag football is exploding in popularity, both here in New Zealand and around the world, with new chances for young athletes to play at higher levels every year. Just last season, one of the players from this programme - Gideon Hayward - was selected for the New Zealand U15 training squad, the youngest athlete in the top 24 for that age group. It shows the kind of progression that can begin right here with our junior players.”

“This is about building pathways,” Hatwell added.

“From peewee to juniors, and eventually into our youth, women’s, men’s and masters teams, we want to see Tauranga kids grow with the sport and know that there’s a place for them here for years to come. It can also provide a great starting point to learn some of the fundamental skills for the kids who later want to play contact football, which we also offer at the club, but currently only in the older age groups.”

U10 team at Iron Up tournament in April. Photo / Supplied

The Peewee and Junior Flag Football sessions will be held at Waipuna Park, with all equipment provided by the club. Families only need to bring enthusiasm and a willingness to give it a go.

Families can register their interest now via the club’s online form: https://forms.gle/UqVdtaGuSBP5bSL8A