KENT Exiles have announced the newest addition to the club with the launch of their first flag American Football team for boys and girls aged between seven and 11.

The Exiles have recently been visiting schools to showcase the game and have been inundated with requests for a team to be formed.

Current senior flag squad head coach Steve Cook also agreed to head up the junior version of the game and will be ably assisted by teacher Paul Schaller, a former player with the team.

Flag American Football is the non-contact version of the sport, similar to tag rugby.

The principles are similar to the contact version of American Football, but to make a tackle, you simply rip a flag or ribbon from a belt worn by the ball carrier.

Flag Football focuses on the fundamentals of the sport such as running, throwing and catching.

It is played by both boys and girls, normally five-a-side.

Training is open to all-comers and requires no previous experience. All equipment for training and playing is provided, but participants should dress appropriately.

Kent Exiles are one of the UK’s most progressive teams, with squads playing in five different age groups in both the kitted and non-kitted versions of the game.

The club has over 15 qualified coaches and is run entirely by volunteers.

Training will start on October 18 between 12pm and 1pm at Orpington Rugby Club. To cover costs, participants will be charged £1 per person per session and training will be fortnightly at present.

For more information, email contactus@kentexiles.co.uk or visit kentexiles.co.uk