Berkshire Renegades American Football Club’s Youth Programme were awarded a grant of £2,500 from Woodley Town Council on 27th November 2023.

Kiwi and Penny (GM and Club Secretary respectively) were invited to the Woodley Town Council’s full meeting on Monday 4th December 2023 to receive the grant from Woodley Town Mayor, Cllr Janet Sartorel.  There was a collective chuckle in the room when Penny and Kiwi were asked to speak to the councillors, with Kiwi explaining he wasn’t actually from New Zealand!

Addressing the room on Monday, Kiwi and Penny thanked the councillors for considering their application and gave a quick overview of the Berkshire Renegades youth programme.  They explained the club had 5 teams in the youth programme.  Flag Football is a non-contact version of the game, open to anyone over the age of 7 years old, while the contact option being available for those 13 years and over.  Not only does either offer fun and enjoyable training sessions to the players, but also teaches them about essential life skills – communication, respect, discipline and teamwork amongst others – without them realising!

Kiwi said that, as a player himself, he knows just how expensive the sport can be when a player first starts out, however he explained the grant would make a huge difference for both the youth flag and contact teams – from replacing equipment that is beyond repair, to improved advertising, publicity, website and domain fees. 

Penny spoke of how exciting Flag Football is becoming, especially as recently it was announced as being included in the LA 2028 Olympics.  Penny said that, within the club there could already be future Olympians training, and confirmed that two of our youth players have already been picked for Team GB!

They ended by explaining that all board members, committee and coaching staff are volunteers, but turn up to every training session with enthusiasm and encouragement that motivates the youth players in doing their best.

Not a bad Christmas present to receive!