Erasmus-Grasser-Gymnasium collects valuable experience at the NFL Flag Championships in the USA
Munich's flag football talents on the world stage
The Erasmus-Grasser-Gymnasium from Munich took part in this year’s NFL Flag Championships in Canton, Ohio, as the representative of “Team Germany.” From July 17 to 20, they competed in the shadow of the famous Pro Football Hall of Fame against teams from Canada, China, Australia, and Brazil. Despite intense heat, injuries, and the unfamiliar time zone, the young U15 team showed more bite and determination with each game. Yet it failed to record a win.
In the quarterfinals, they faced the strong Canadian team once again and had to accept another 0:28 defeat. Even though the sporting success eluded them, the trip was a complete win for everyone involved.
An experience with lasting impact
Coach Lorenz Regler, who accompanied the team to Ohio along with two other female coaches, expressed pride in the development of his players: “We saw tremendous improvement over the course of the tournament. The kids were committed, disciplined, and eager to learn. It was a joy to see how much they supported each other.”
Regler, a former ELF champion with Frankfurt Galaxy, emphasized not only the athletic progress. The social bond and personal growth of the young players also deepened throughout the journey. Three girls even had the opportunity to stand out during an exclusive workout with college coaches. Although a scholarship is not yet within reach, it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that opened up new perspectives.
More than just sports: friendship beyond borders
Beyond the competition, international exchange was also a key part of the event. The Munich students acted as true ambassadors for Germany and handed out friendship bracelets they had brought along to fellow players from other countries. This small gesture was warmly received by the international teams and led to lasting memories and new friendships that crossed borders.
The feedback from the other coaches on-site was overwhelmingly positive. The Munich group made a friendly, helpful, and respectful impression, fully in line with the spirit of the NFL Flag community, which stands for fairness and diversity around the globe.
