RAF Mustangs announce pathway to develop next generation of American football coaches

The RAF Mustangs American football team have announced a coaching programme designed to get more military coaches involved in the game.

The first intake, featuring 17 budding coaches, will run from April to June, focusing on classroom learning, mentorship and on-field experience.

Regular serving personnel and reservists are invited to get involved in future pathway programmes, and this year's trainees will get the chance to put their education into action at June's development camp.

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The RAF Mustangs team called it a "major step forward in developing the next generation of coaches" in a statement on their Instagram page.

They said: "By investing in our people, we're ensuring the longevity of the Mustang brand and building the foundations for continued championship success for RAF American football."

The Mustangs are the reigning Inter Services champions after dethroning the British Army Jackals in last year's tournament. They made a brilliant start to this year's championship after a four-touchdown performance from Elliot Knight inspired them to a 39-19 win over the Royal Navy.

In June 2025, American football was granted category two status by the UK Armed Forces sports boards and has since continued to grow in the military.