Children at Blidworth Oaks Primary School made it to the NFL Flag National Championship – creating special memories as they narrowly missing out on the chance to win a trip to Las Vegas.

The youngsters competed against 12 schools from around the country at the University of Loughborough after winning through two rounds.

Blidworth Oaks only entered the programme in February and is one of 300 schools now playing Flag Football — a non-contact version of American Football.

Head of school Jodi Ince and Dan Brickles, PE leader, who both enjoy American Football and wanted to include it in their PE timetable for Year 5 and Year 6 pupils, discovered the NFL Flag initiative after taking up the sport last September.

They said the sport challenges youngsters to learn different tactical skills as well as stamina, speed, and strength agility.

After the finals Dan said: “Although we were not the winners and heading to Las Vegas, we were certainly the winners in the experience we have recieved!

“Walking through the door we were greeted by gifts from the NFL, special shirts, ball, plaque, good luck card and video message from the Miami Dolphins. It was an unbelievable effort from those guys and really appreciated.

“The team was brilliant. They showed their school values throughout the day, gave it their best shot, and did Blidworth Oaks proud. This was the best day in my professional life.

“The memories will last a lifetime and I am so proud of each and everyone of them for what they have achieved on our journey this year.

“Myself and Mrs Ince are thrilled with the development of the sport in the school and are so proud of how this group has grasped the opportunity.”
The youngsters met current and former professionals of the sport, as well as national media, such as Sky Sports.