Pathways to the Future Strengthen as National U15 & U17 Boys Teams Depart for Junior International Cup

Auckland, New Zealand — 17 June 2025

History is in the making as New Zealand’s first-ever national junior Flag Football teams – the NZ U15 and U17 Boys – depart Auckland today bound for Los Angeles, USA. These teams will proudly represent Aotearoa at the prestigious USA Football Junior International Cup, taking place from 20–22 June 2025 at Dignity Health Sports Park, home of the LA Galaxy and the US Olympic Training Center.

The establishment of these teams is a significant milestone for the sport in New Zealand and a strong nod to the future. Driven by a rapidly growing and highly competitive youth grade across club and regional levels, this national pathway has emerged in record time.

For most of the 24 selected athletes, this will be their first time representing New Zealand on the international stage in Flag Football. One notable exception is Geo Pulotu, who previously competed at the NFL Flag International Cup in 2024 with Bader Intermediate School.

The full travelling delegation consists of 30 members, including 4 coaches, 1 team manager, and NZ Head of Delegation Russell McConnochie. They will soon be joined by internationally appointed officials Jayne Tuigamala and Rob Goodman, as well as a large, enthusiastic group of supporting family and friends, whose commitment and backing have made this opportunity possible.

The New Zealand sides will take the field as the nation’s best, facing international opponents including Australia, Azteca, Canada, Japan, Monterrey, Panama, South Korea, and the United States. They will compete proudly against some of the most promising junior Flag Football athletes in the world.

“This is a monumental step forward for our national programme and a celebration of how far youth Flag Football has come in New Zealand. We’re proud to see our boys take the field on the world stage,” said McConnochie before departure.

📅 Competition Dates:

20–22 June 2025📍 Venue: Dignity Health Sports Park, Los Angeles, CA

📺 Watch Live:

• Event Info & Schedule: usafootball.com/national-team/junior-international-cup

• Livestreams: Home Team Live

This marks not only a first for these talented athletes but a huge leap forward for the sport across Aotearoa. Go Team NZ!

Article added: Tuesday 17 June 2025