Scouting Announcement: NZ Representative Flag Football (U15 & U17) – 2026 Junior International Cup

Dear NZAFF Members, Coaches, School Sports Coordinators, Club Leads, and Aspiring Athletes,

We are thrilled to announce that scouting is officially underway for the New Zealand Under-15 and Under-17 Boys and Girls Flag Football teams.

We are searching for the country’s top talent to represent New Zealand on the world stage at the 2026 Junior International Cup, hosted by USA Football in Los Angeles.

With Flag Football now confirmed as an Olympic sport, this is a prestigious opportunity for our young athletes to compete at the highest international level.

What is Flag Football?

Flag football is a high-octane, non-contact version of American football where "tackling" is performed by removing a flag from the ball carrier’s belt. It prioritises explosive speed, precision passing, and strategic route-running.

Now an official Olympic sport set to debut at the LA28 Games, it has transitioned from a recreational activity into a premier global discipline. It demands elite athleticism, exceptional spatial awareness, and a high tactical IQ.

• Fast-Paced: Smaller pitches and the absence of a traditional line of scrimmage mean the action is constant.

• Skill-Centric: Focuses heavily on agility, hand-eye coordination, and disciplined defensive positioning.

• Tactical: Relies on complex playbooks and quick, creative transitions similar to high-level basketball or 7s rugby.

Watch the full breakdown here: Flag Football Explained

Tournament Details

• Event: 2026 Junior International Cup
• Location: Los Angeles, USA
• Tournament Dates: 17th – 21st June 2026
• Travel Dates: 15th June – 23rd June 2026 (TBC)

Age Eligibility & Requirements

To ensure compliance with International Federation standards, athletes must meet the following criteria:

• U15 Division: Aged 15 or under as of December 31, 2026.
• U17 Division: Aged 17 or under as of December 31, 2026.

Documentation: All applicants must hold (or be eligible for) a valid New Zealand Passport. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the June 2026 departure date.

The Selection Process

To ensure a fair and comprehensive scouting process, we utilise a "two-key" authentication system:

• Player Expression of Interest: Every athlete must complete the NZ Flag Football: Road to LA 2026 Athlete Application (U15 and U17) to be officially registered for scouting.
• Coach Evaluation: Coaches/Coordinators must independently submit the Coaches Player Evaluation Form (U15/U17) to endorse their players’ skill sets and character.

Note: Athletes not currently registered with an affiliated Flag Football club must attend one of our regional testing sessions to be considered for selection.

NOTE: PLAYER APPLICATIONS WILL CLOSE Thursday 5th MARCH

Athletic Testing & Scouting Dates

Selectors will be scouting at local American Football games and the NZAFF Club Nationals.

In addition, athletic testing sessions will be held as follows:

• Auckland Testing Session | Saturday 21st Feb: 8am – 10am @ Mountfort Park, Dr Pickering
• Wellington Testing Session | Sunday 22nd Feb: 2pm – 4pm @ Location TBC
• Christchurch Testing Session | Sunday 1st March: 11am – 1pm @ Marshland Domain

Financial Investment

The estimated cost per player is currently between $5,000 – $5,500.

We are working aggressively on fundraising, sponsorships, and grant applications to reduce this figure for all selected families. We are committed to working with individual players to develop financial plans; we do not want high-potential athletes to opt out due to financial concerns.

Management Teams

U15 Women

• Head Coach: Mase Shaw

• Assistant Coach: TBC

• Manager: Tara-Lee Soysa

U17 Women

• Head Coach: Bevan Wood

• Assistant Coach: Jacqui Elmsly

• Manager: Tara-Lee Soysa

U15 Men

• Head Coach: Niall Cuffe

• Assistant Coach: Tim Cliff

• Manager: Caitlin Rarity

U17 Men

• Head Coach: Peter Copsey

• Assistant Coach: Craig Cowles

• Manager: Caitlin Rarity

Next Steps

We are on a tight timeline to finalise our rosters. We ask that Coaches and Coordinators proactively identify athletes with exceptional speed, agility, and catching ability.

Players, if you have the drive to represent your country, please complete your EOI immediately.

Let’s get our best athletes to LA.

Best regards,

The NZ Junior Flag U15 and U17 Team Management

For complete campaign information please see: Scouting Announcement: NZ Representative Flag Football (U15 & U17) – 2026 Junior International Cup