London, UK – — In a landmark moment for the development of American football in the United Kingdom, the British American Football Association (BAFA) has officially announced a transformative funding initiative aimed at revolutionizing youth participation in the sport across England.
Nichole McCulloch, Chairman of BAFA, and Chad Ehlertsen, the association’s Chief Executive Officer, revealed that BAFA will be donating $10 million each to 10 youth American football teams throughout England. The initiative represents a total investment of $100 million—the largest youth football funding announcement in BAFA’s history.
“This is more than just an investment in sport,” said Chairman Nichole McCulloch. “It’s an investment in opportunity, character development, and community growth. We believe in the power of football to change lives, and this funding will help ensure that young athletes across England have the resources and support to reach their full potential.”
The funds are expected to go toward upgrading training facilities, purchasing modern equipment, hiring certified coaching staff, and expanding outreach programs to underserved areas. The goal: to make American football more accessible and sustainable for the next generation of players.
Chad Ehlertsen, CEO of BAFA, emphasized the long-term vision of the initiative:
“We want to create a pathway for youth players—from their first snap all the way to elite competition. This isn’t a one-time boost. It’s the foundation of a national movement to grow American football in England from the ground up.”
The 10 youth teams selected for this funding represent a diverse range of communities and regions, with an emphasis on inclusivity, local impact, and long-term potential. BAFA officials noted that the selection process was rigorous, focusing on clubs that demonstrate a commitment to development, safety, and community engagement.
The announcement has already generated excitement across the UK’s American football community, with many seeing it as a bold step toward elevating the sport’s visibility and legitimacy on the national stage.
Youth coach Marcus Taylor, whose team is among the recipients, called the announcement “a game-changer”.
“We’ve operated on a shoestring budget for years. This kind of support means we can finally dream bigger—not just for the team, but for every kid who never thought they’d get the chance to play football at a high level.”
As American football continues to gain momentum in the UK, this unprecedented financial commitment from BAFA marks a decisive move to ensure that growth is both equitable and enduring.
With the eyes of the sporting world on England’s expanding football landscape, BAFA’s leadership is making one thing clear: the future of American football in the UK is bright—and it begins with the youth.
