Kenya shines at inaugural NFL Flag Youth Continental Championship in Cairo

History was written in the heart of North Africa as Kenya’s Green Edgewood Academy, representing the country’s Under-13 team, soared to a first runners-up finish at the inaugural NFL Flag Youth Continental Championship held in Cairo, Egypt from June 20–23.

Flying the Kenyan flag highly, the young stars stunned the continent with their skills proving that the future of American flag football in Kenya is bright.

The team’s journey to Cairo began in September 2024 when the Kenya Federation of American Football (KFAF) held the National Primary Schools Flag Football Championship at JKUAT Sports Grounds.

Green Edgewood Academy emerged victorious in the Under-12 mixed category, earning the honor of representing Kenya at the continental showpiece.

This pathway was a result of strategic groundwork laid by KFAF President George Alwanga, who had earlier met NFL FLAG officials in Lausanne, Switzerland, during the IFAF Congress. He shared Kenya’s early success with the pilot NFL Flag program launched in 2023 with NFL International support.

“Coming this far with such a new and exciting sport is a huge milestone for us in Kenya,” said Mr. Alwanga.

“While we hoped to bring the trophy home, I’m proud of the team’s performance. I urge schools and teachers to embrace this sport and let our children explore their talent.”

Team Kenya were in formidable form during the tournament, topping their pool with an unbeaten run:

Kenya 2 – Egypt 0 (Captain Owen forced a safety)

Kenya 13 – Nigeria 0 (Touchdowns by Daniel Kinyanjui & Petro Njuguna)

Kenya 7 – Egypt 7 (Both sides shared touchdowns and conversions)

Nigeria 0 – Kenya 6 (Touchdown by Isaac Gitau, the team’s youngest member)

Having finished top of the group, Kenya advanced to a highly anticipated final against tournament hosts Egypt. Despite a brave display, the youngsters narrowly lost 6–0, sealing a historic second-place finish.

The team’s exploits didn’t go unnoticed, with two standout players scooping major accolades:

Daniel Njuguna was over offensive MVP for his exceptional all-round performance as quarterback, running back, and defensive rusher.

Petro Kariuki earned the Team MVP voted by team Kenya coaches scoring game changing points.

Head Coach Moses Waweru applauded his players for their commitment and energy.

“We came with a team full of character and infectious positivity. They quickly became fan favorites in Cairo. I urge parents back home to let their children play NFL Flag. It’s a sport like no other.”

As the sport continues to gain traction, KFAF is already planning further activities with the under-15 tournaments set for July – August 2025 and Under-12 national championship scheduled for early 2026 to allow maximum participation and urge parents to sign up their school link.