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NZAFF Digital Talent Identification Is Open for 2026 National Teams

Have you ever dreamed of representing New Zealand in American Football (Tackle)? Now’s your moment.

The New Zealand American Football Federation (NZAFF) has officially opened Digital Talent Identification (DTI) for male athletes aiming to be part of the 2026 New Zealand National Teams, preparing for the Festival of Football vs American Football Australia in Auckland, July 2026.

This is the only entry point into the 2026 national team pathway. If you want to be considered — you must apply.

Before You Begin Your Application

Please note: the Digital Talent Identification application consists of 15 sections.

Before starting, athletes should have read the supporting information (this full article including files at the bottom of this page) and have the following prepared:

A profile photo
A clear photo of the passport photo page
Recent game film from the past 12 months (uploaded or linked via YouTube, Hudl, or Google Drive)

This is your opportunity to promote yourself. Digital Talent Identification is standard practice for elite American Football athletes worldwide, and complete applications are required in order to be reviewed.

Make it easy for selectors to assess your ability — ensure your footage is clear, accessible, and clearly labelled. Preparation matters, and first impressions count.

You may edit your application at any time up until the closing date. Take the time to prepare properly and present yourself at your best.

How the National Team Selection Process Works

Selection for the 2026 New Zealand American Football (Tackle) National Teams begins with a Digital Talent Identification (DTI) application.

In simple terms:

Athletes must complete a Digital Talent ID application (this is the only way to be considered).
Applications and recent game film (last 12 months) are reviewed by national selectors.
Based on this review, athletes may:
- Be fast-tracked into the Wider Training Squad,
- Be invited to trial,
- Be asked for further information, or
- Not progress at this stage.
Athletes invited to trial must be available for the confirmed Auckland trial on Sunday 15 February 2026 (with additional regional trials confirmed as required).
Selected athletes progress through the Wider Training Squad toward final selection for the Festival of Football in July 2026.

This process ensures all athletes are assessed fairly, consistently, and nationally.

📅 Trial Reminder – Lock This Date In

At this point in time, one trial date is confirmed:

Auckland Trial: Sunday 15 February 2026
Location: Mountfort Park, Manurewa
Time: To be confirmed

If you apply, you should keep this date available.

Additional regional trials may be scheduled and communicated if required.

🏃 Who Can Apply?

Applications are open for:

Junior athletes (U16 & U18) may apply regardless of passport or citizenship
Senior athletes (Men’s 18+) must be New Zealand citizens or New Zealand passport holders

NOTE: Overseas-Based Athletes - Athletes currently living outside New Zealand may apply, regardless of age, provided they hold or are eligible for a New Zealand passport. Successful applicants must remain actively engaged with team communications and are responsible for covering all personal travel costs associated with trials, trainings, and national team camps held in New Zealand.