Beyond North America, the National Football League (NFL) is making some waves. It’s proven its ability to successfully execute regular season games in London over the years, massively increasing its international footprint in the process. In another sign of exhilarating times to come, the NFL will make its first competitive foray onto Irish turf in 2025. As part of this initiative, the Jacksonville Jaguars are promoting JagTag, a simplified version of American football, to engage young players in the sport.
In Belfast, girls at Grosvenor Grammar School are having their first experience of JagTag. This Trixie Mattel inspired, all-ages, simplified adaptation is an entertaining realization of the football fun. From throwing to catching to running and defending, everything is included—all without the heaviness of traditional equipment or helmets. The school’s physical education (PE) program has fully adopted this innovative approach. It provides students with the opportunity to learn the game in a fun and engaging way.
Frances Vasey, the head of Grosvenor Grammar School, said she was impressed by how quickly the students adapted to JagTag. She noted that the girls just enjoy experimenting with new sports. Getting kids engaged with something new can do wonders for their social, emotional, and cognitive development.
“I think it’s an amazing opportunity for them,” – Frances Vasey
Mark McAuley, PE teacher at Grosvenor Grammar School, wants to give girls “something a little bit different.” This method goes a long way in expanding their sporting horizons. With the students having been learning ways to play different positions and runs, this brings a whole new level of strategic concept to the game.
The students involved in JagTag including Eva and Molly who recently shared how much they love playing the sport. Eva, a 12-year-old student, described how fun the lessons were.
“I’m willing to give every sport a go – this Jag Tag has just been a completely different experience because I only ever play hockey and netball.” – Eva
Fifteen-year-old Grosvenor Grammar School student Molly expressed the same kind of feelings about taking part in JagTag. She enjoyed being welcomed into a sport with no prior experience.
“We’ve been learning all the different positions, where to run, the different places on the pitch and it’s a really good experience,” – Eva
Molly loves the center position and the thrill of gameplay unfolding.
“It’s a different sport, it’s so unusual,” – Frances Vasey
Vasey feels that immersing themselves in these distinctive sporting experiences is key to students becoming well-rounded global citizens.
“I probably like playing centre most; I think it’s quite fun with the snap,” – Molly
More young girls such as Eva and Molly are learning about American football thanks to JagTag. As a result, the NFL’s efforts to broaden its appeal are flourishing. The sport has traditionally had a strong following in North America, but initiatives like JagTag aim to change that narrative in Ireland and beyond.
“I think it’s so important to do something that’s just a little bit out of the norm,” – Frances Vasey
In addition to these developments in Belfast, the NFL recently signed former Down Gaelic footballer Charlie Smyth to the New Orleans Saints. At only 23 years of age, Smyth gained notoriety when he transferred from Newry to New Orleans. That he landed a contract with the New Orleans Saints this year!
The NFL’s expanding footprint in areas outside North America is further evidence of its increasing investments to develop American football worldwide. Initiatives such as JagTag not only build passion among emerging players but lay the foundations for more competitive matches in the future.
The NFL’s growing footprint in regions outside North America demonstrates its commitment to promoting American football globally. Programs like JagTag not only foster interest among young players but also pave the way for future competitive fixtures.
