Since its inception, this collaboration has laid the groundwork for a stronger, more inclusive and better-supported university American Football community.
The original partnership began in April 2022 with the creation of a funded role within the BUCS team and since then, a number of significant milestones have been achieved, including:
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The creation and implementation of a National League structure.
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Integration of American Football into BUCS Big Wednesday, with the 2024-25 season expanding to include a National Vase Final.
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217 coaches qualified at BAFCA Level 1 and 38 at BAFCA Level 2.
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57 Flag Football officials and 11 BAFRA match officials qualified.
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Over £40,000 in American Football Development Grant funding accessed by institutions.
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Delivery of three in-person and three virtual conferences to support the growth of the game.
The partnership has now been extended until the end of July 2028. This timeline aligns with the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, where Flag Football will make its debut as an official sport. In response, BUCS and BAFA have identified Flag Football as a key strategic focus moving forward.
Through the continuation of this partnership, BUCS and BAFA aim to:
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Develop and deliver a sustainable Flag Football programme within the BUCS competition structure.
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Establish a talent pathway to support higher education students with ambitions to represent at international level.
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Sustain and grow the existing contact American Football programme, which is already one of the largest team sports within the BUCS delivery model.
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Continue supporting the development of officiating, coaching, data and insight, and promotion of the sport at university level.
Neal Kington, BUCS Head of Competitions, said: "We're incredibly proud of the progress made since our partnership with BAFA began in 2022. The extension of this agreement reflects our mutual belief in the potential of American Football to thrive in higher education. With Flag Football’s inclusion in LA 2028, we’re excited to work with BAFA to provide students with new pathways and opportunities, and to continue strengthening one of our most dynamic sports programmes."
Chad Ehlertsen, BAFA CEO, commented: “"Our partnership with BUCS has been instrumental in strengthening and expanding the presence of Contact American Football across the UK university landscape. As we look ahead to Flag Football’s Olympic debut at LA 2028, we’re excited to bring the same focus and ambition to developing a robust Flag programme within higher education.
Universities play a crucial role in shaping the future of our sport - both at home and on the international stage - and this extended partnership provides the foundation to create meaningful, long-term opportunities for student athletes in both Contact and Flag formats."
Over the coming years, BUCS and BAFA will continue to evolve the university game, supporting institutions, clubs and students across the UK. This will include exploring further innovations in competition formats, improving access to training and resources, and preparing high-performing athletes for opportunities on the international stage.
