The PlayAmericanFootball.ae (PAF) adult winter flag football season is underway. With six competitive teams of 8-10 players made up of men and women, this league stands out as the premier adult flag football league in the region. The season not only showcases athletic prowess but also fosters a sense of community and sportsmanship among participants and fans alike.
The Teams and Players
The league comprises six teams, each bringing a unique blend of talent and strategy to the field. These teams are:
- Dubai Blitzkrieg
- Dubai Sand Beavers
- Dubai Gold
- Dubai Ninjas
- Dubai Vipers
- Abu Dhabi Wildcats
Each team is made up of 8-10 players, including both seasoned veterans and enthusiastic newcomers. The diversity in experience levels adds an exciting dynamic to the games, as seasoned players mentor the newer ones, fostering growth and development within the league.
The Season Structure
The 6 week winter season runs from January to February, taking advantage of the cooler weather in the UAE. This style of short, yet competitive seasons allows players to align their schedules, avoiding issues of long term commitment. The league pits each team against the other 5 allowing each team to play the other teams twice. This format ensures that all teams have an equal opportunity to showcase their skills and compete for the top spot.
Games are held on Sunday evenings from 6-10PM in Dubai. Thursday evening from 8:30-10:15pm the league runs a training to allow new players to learn the game as well as teams to prepare for the coming game-day. The games are hosted at various venues across the UAE, including GEMS World Academy and GEMS Wellington Academy Al Khail.
Highlights of the Season
The PlayAmericanFootball.ae league is known for its high-energy games and thrilling moments. Some of the highlights from the recent season include:
- Opening Day Try-out and Draft: The season kicked off with a Try-out Tournament on Jan 12th in Dubai, allowing each team to play the other 5 teams in a shortened version of the game to allow teams to test out potential players and plays. After the tournament a draft was held to select new players to teams that they were not already assigned to one.
- End of the Year Tournament: The best team (record-wise) after 5 weeks of play will be awarded the title of 2025 Winter Champion. The Winter Champion will join the 2025 Fall season Champion as top seeded team earning a 1st round bye at the end of the year where all teams will play in a tournament to decide who is indeed the best team in the UAE.
Community and Sportsmanship
Beyond the on-field action, the PlayAmericanFootball.ae league is celebrated for its strong sense of community. The league brings together players from diverse backgrounds, united by their love for the sport.
The league also emphasizes sportsmanship and fair play. Players are encouraged to uphold the values of respect, integrity, and teamwork, both on and off the field. This commitment to positive conduct has earned the league a reputation for being not just competitive, but also inclusive and welcoming.
Growth of the Game
In order for this sport to grow, not only new players are needed but also referees. With the recent completion of the first PAF Referee certification program, the league now has 6 new, fully trained referees who are actively working to allow for fairer play and trust amongst the players. This, along with our coaching certification program that is set to start in 2025, the PAF football league is taking significant steps to create a real foundation of American football here in the UAE.
In conclusion, the PlayAmericanFootball.ae adult winter flag football season is more than just a series of games; it is a celebration of athleticism, community, and the enduring spirit of competition. Whether you’re a player, a fan, or a newcomer to the sport, the league offers something for everyone, making it a highlight of the UAE’s sporting landscape.