British Flag Football Squads Excel in Europe with Loughborough College’s Elite Facilities

Loughborough College has been at the heart of the development of flag football in the UK, with the British American Football Association’s (BAFA) men’s and women’s squads using the College’s world-class facilities to train for this year’s EuroFlag competition, which took place last weekend.

Among the athletes who represented Great Britain is Loughborough College student Ben Schneller, the youngest member of the men’s team. At 18 years old, Ben, who is currently part of the NFL Academy based in part at the College, has already made an impressive mark on the sport. A former DiSE (Diploma in Sporting Excellence) student, he is now combining his academic studies with his elite training, and is one of several talented young players hoping to help Team GB secure international success.

Ben said: “It’s so exciting to be a part of both BAFA and the NFL Academy, and to do it at Loughborough College is great, it’s like a second family. The facilities and support here have been incredible in helping me prepare, and it’s amazing to be part of a sport that’s growing so quickly.”

Ben is not the only College connection to the national squad. Two current DiSE students are progressing through the GB pathway and could soon join him in representing their country on the international stage.

Both the men’s and women’s teams made a strong impact at EuroFlag, with the women’s team taking the gold medal after a thrilling final match against Austria, which ended at 34-33. The men’s team also had an impressive tournament, finishing fourth overall and earning a place at the International Flag American Football (IFAF) World Championships in Germany next year.

With Great Britain’s excellent showing at EuroFlag, both teams have also taken the first step towards the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, where flag football will make its official debut.

Matt O’Dowd, Head of Elite Sport at Loughborough College, said: “We’re incredibly proud of Ben and all our students who are pushing through to elite levels of their chosen sport. To have BAFA’s flag football squads training here at the College highlights the quality of our facilities, but more importantly it shows the pathway we can provide for young athletes who aspire to compete at the highest level.”