The Finnish American Football Federation has launched a flag football development project aimed at strengthening the national teams’ international success and preparing for long-term goals, such as the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

The project focuses on enhancing competitiveness for upcoming European and World Championships while establishing a sustainable and impactful support organization.

Multi-Phase Project Begins with Planning

The first phase focuses on planning and assembling a support team. During this stage, strategies for player recruitment, coaching, marketing, branding, communication, fundraising, and partnerships will be outlined. The goal is to establish a comprehensive development program to promote the growth and success of flag football in Finland.

In spring 2025, the project moves to practical implementation, with open camps and testing days for athletes. These events will identify Finland’s most promising players by evaluating their skills and physical readiness. All participants will have the opportunity to compete for a spot on the national team and represent Finland in major international tournaments.

Olympics 2028 and the Growth of Finnish Elite Sports

The project’s core objective is to give Finnish elite athletes a realistic opportunity to compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where flag football will debut as an Olympic sport. Achieving this requires identifying talented athletes from diverse sports backgrounds and supporting their long-term development.

Tailored development paths will be created for athletes, addressing their technical skills, physical fitness, and mental preparation. The program aims to ensure athlete engagement and consistent growth, even outside major competition seasons.

Experienced Specialists in the Project Steering Group

The Board of the Finnish American Football Federation (SAJL) has appointed Juuso Marno and Tuomas Kivisaari to contribute their expertise to the project. For two years, they have successfully worked in coaching and leadership roles with Finland’s junior flag football national teams. Their practical experience and knowledge provide vital support for the project’s success. A dedicated steering group will monitor the project’s progress and the achievement of its objectives.

-We are confident that elite athletes from flag football, American football, and other sports will be inspired by this Olympic-focused project. The support system being developed is unprecedented in the sport, focusing on the athlete’s personal growth, which will benefit everyone involved. Winter will determine competition readiness, and developing speed and agility will remain just as important as honing technical skills when competing for a spot in Team LA’s player pathway,” Marno and Kivisaari share their expectations.

The Finnish American Football Federation invites everyone interested in the sport to follow the project’s progress and support Finnish flag football on its journey toward new achievements and the Olympics.