The academy’s girls’ team returned from the Regional Championships undefeated and were officially crowned North West Regional Champions. Their performance across the tournament reflected not only their sporting ability, but also their teamwork, resilience, leadership and attitude. Throughout the competition, students represented St Anne’s Academy with pride.
The mixed team also delivered an excellent tournament, remaining undefeated all the way to the semi-finals before narrowly missing out on a place in the final after an extra-time point conversion. Despite the disappointment of such a close result, the team showed determination, sportsmanship and commitment throughout the day.
The latest success builds on a remarkable four-year run for St Anne’s Academy. Over recent years, the school has won a regional championship every year, secured national tournament success, and seen students represent Great Britain in Canton, Ohio, as part of the Flag Football world tournament in 2024.
The girls’ team have also completed their North Conference fixtures in the Chicago Bears League, finishing as conference champions after an undefeated campaign. As conference winners, they will now progress to the playoffs and national finals later in the year, with the opportunity to compete for another championship title.
In recognition of the team’s achievements, the Chicago Bears organisation are due to fly to Manchester on 16 June to run a private training session with the girls’ team ahead of the finals. The session will include active NFL players, coaches and Hall of Famers working directly with students. The Chicago Bears team will also be alongside St Anne’s at the national finals the following day, marking an incredible opportunity for the students and further recognition of what they have achieved this season.
Rob Kershaw, Head Coach and Manager of The LINK at St Anne’s Academy, said the programme has become about far more than results on the field.
“What has been most pleasing throughout all of this is seeing the character of the students continue to shine through. Their dedication, resilience, teamwork, leadership and support for one another have been outstanding both on and off the field.”
 |
 |
There were also several individual achievements to celebrate. St Anne's Academy Flag Captain McFinley was named MVP of the entire tournament, a fantastic recognition of his leadership, talent and hard work throughout the competition. Former student Gael also supported both teams throughout the day in a coaching role. NFL staff commented on how impressive it was to see a former student returning to support younger players and step into such a positive leadership position.
Introduced only a few years ago, the programme has helped students build confidence, discipline, communication and leadership skills, while opening doors to experiences many young people may never have imagined.
Students involved in the programme have also featured in a three-part NFL Flag documentary series, showcasing the impact of the sport and the opportunities available through the school’s commitment to enrichment, inclusion and aspiration.
The next stage of the programme will see St Anne’s Academy continue to build links across the local community. The school has already developed coaching opportunities with local primary school PE teachers, helping younger pupils access Flag Football earlier and supporting the growth of the sport across Middleton and beyond.
This work forms part of St Anne’s wider commitment to transition, belonging and opportunity. By sharing expertise with primary schools and creating clear routes into extra-curricular sport, the academy is helping pupils and families see St Anne’s as a place where young people can belong, grow and succeed.
The continued success of the Flag Football programme is a powerful example of what happens when students are given the right opportunities, the right support and the belief that they can achieve something exceptional.
At St Anne’s Academy, success is being built on the field, in the classroom and across the community.
St Anne’s Academy’s Flag Football journey forms part of the wider growth of NFL Flag across the UK and Ireland. You can find out more about the NFL Flag schools programme, read about the Minnesota Vikings’ visit to St Anne’s Academy, and watch the three-part NFL Flag documentary series featuring the impact of the sport on young people.
Episode 1: NFL Flag Is for EVERYONE! | Growing Female Participation In Sport In UK & Ireland
Episode 2: How NFL Flag Is Helping Kids To Choose Football Over Phones
Episode 3: NFL Flag Is The New Sport Changing How British & Irish Kids Grow And Compete
We look back on a wonderful flag football taster session with the NFL Minnesota Vikings. St Anne's Academy hosted the Vikings for a taster session, following our success in the regional and national finals at Tottenham Hotspur's, where we represented the Vikings in the tournament. Find out how we have formed a relationship with flag football and the Minnesota Vikings. We also speak to NFL legend Jake Reed
#bestforeveryone
