FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

1) I want to play, what are the age rules? There are five basic levels of American Football, one flag, two junior, three youth, four Universities and five senior. Flag is a non contact form of the game. It is mainly sub divided into different age groups and mixed age groups and genders tend to be the fun form. There are various leagues and tournaments held throughout the year. Our club does not run any flag teams, although some players do play for fun. Simply look on line to find your nearest team. The other four are all contact forms which we generally call ‘Kitted’. Junior kitted is aged between 14-16, youth kitted 16-19 and Senior 18 – to any age. University football is 18 – to any age but is dependant on being in full time education and qualifying by taking a recognized course. For more information on University Football look on line. As for the three possible forms left for most clubs, we currently do not have a junior programme, but we intend to start a youth programme this March. The senior programme is now in its 5th year.    

2) When do you play? Senior & youth American football is a summer sport. We tend to star practices around mid January and start playing games in April. The season (depending on play offs, finals etc) can run until October.

3) Where do you play & practice and how often? We practice and play our home fixtures at Winchester Rugby Football Club (link to map). Most of our away games are in the South. We practice on a Wednesday starting at 7pm (under lights for the dark nights) and on non game days on a Sunday starting at 1pm. For our full fixture list check out our site.

4) I want to play kitted football but I don’t know the rules? The rules of American football are easier to learn once you come to practice. It is not important to know any rules as we will coach all you need to know.

5) I never played Rugby, is that a problem? The main thing is that you want to play. Playing any other contact sport will help, but other non contact activities such as athletics, rock climbing, weightlifting, swimming etc are also helpful. You will need to be fit, so having some background in physical activity will be an advantage once you start practice. However practices are designed to allow all abilities to catch up. The best and only way to discover if this is a sport for you is to try.  

6) Am I big enough? The sport is not purely about size. You will soon learn that a good grounding in the basics, fundamentals and required techniques allow those that progress to become good football players. Fortunately it is a sport that caters for all shapes and sizes. Fun and learning how to play are the up most considerations by the coaching staff.

7) What position do you think I will play? This is normally decided by the coaching staff but your ability to run, catch, block or tackle, or a combination of these, combined with your body shape, weight and fitness will normally be factors to where you will be naturally start playing. Normally most players will learn an offensive and a defensive position and in time will decide for themselves what they prefer.  

8) Will I be the only new player? No, new players mainly join us at the start of a season. But we still take new players during the season. We always make new players welcomed as we are a very friendly club. The best way to join is to bring along a friend.

9) I don’t have any playing equipment? Players are expected to buy their own equipment, but we do have some ‘spare’ equipment to save you initially rushing out buying equipment you might not need. Whilst the equipment at first glance all looks the same, it will differ because of position. We suggest that you try out first before rushing out to buy. We can inform you what you need and supply you with contact names of kit suppliers. In the interim the club’s ‘spare equipment’ will suffice. On occasions, players will share what they have at practices.  

10) How much will the equipment cost? This again depends on your requirements once a position has been agreed. As with most things, there are basic items of equipment and ‘name brands’ and non required items like gloves, hand warmers, kicking aids, visors etc. you will also find very good deals on ‘hand down’ equipment from ex players, on line and special offers from equipment suppliers. Keeping to the basic requirements, i.e helmet, shoulder pads, a shirt, pants and the insert padding it will range from £200 - £300. if you look after your equipment it should last at least 10 years if not longer! So at only £30 per season it actually represents very good value. 
 
11) So I want to come to practice, what do I need? For your first introduction you will only need studded boots (we practice on grass) a gum-shield, tracksuit bottoms/shorts and bring a large bottle of water for hydration. We can then take it from there. If you prefer, you can also chose to turn up to watch a practice. This way you can get to see what’s expected.   

12) How much will the season cost? To fund our season takes a considerable amount of money. We have to pay for a range of services like officials, medical cover, insurances, pitch hire and marking, etc To cover these cost all playing members have a yearly playing fee levied. The playing fee is not set until after the AGM. This year’s subs are £160. All club coaches are voluntary and they pay all of their own expenses. There are various payment schemes to help fund your season. These will be explained once you decide to attend some practices.  

13) I like to get involved, but I can’t play? Well the good news is that we have several positions that you can do to help and get involved with the team/club. We need coaches, we will teach you from scratch, we need sideline and committee help as well as other important task like scouting, photography, filming, fundraising etc. Contact our club Chairman on info@thrashers.org.uk if you want to learn more.

14) I am female but still want to play? We are an equal opportunity sport and our league and club rules allow female players, coaches, etc. We welcome any potential new female member.  

15) Thank you for the information, but can you please answer some others? If you do want clarification on any of the above points, or have a question of your own please write to our club Chairman on info@thrashers.org.uk who will then redirect your question to the club officer/coach who is best suited to help.