New Basingstoke team joins UK's American football scene

The new team heralds an exciting era for football in the town, an activity that hasn't been organised in over a decade - the former group being the Basingstoke Zombie Hord. Furthermore, the full contact version ceased as far back as 1995.

Flag football, now one of the UK's fastest growing sports, will join the LA Olympics 2028 roster alongside cricket, baseball, lacrosse, and squash, further cementing its popularity.

READ MORE: Ex-rugby player from Basingstoke drafted by NFL team Buffalo Bills

The Turtles train every other Sunday at War Memorial Park (Crossborough Hill), and played their inaugural match on Sunday, April 28, against the Woking Whirlwind.

While the game ended with a loss ( 35-0) at the War Memorial Park, a club spokesperson said the team has 'learned lots of lessons and can only get better'. 

Founder and general manager of the team, Alex Underwood, said: "Just over six months ago I wanted to link up with other enthusiasts for a throw about in the park so placed an ad online, I had no idea our first meeting of three players would transform into the development of an entire team.

SEE ALSO: Running pair raise more than £7,000 for charity running from London to Overton

"The team is very welcoming with a great mix of experience and rookies. If your new to the game and don’t understand it my advice is simple, come along, meet the fantastic individuals on the team and try it out for yourself. It’s completely free to train with the club providing all the equipment you need.

"The Turtles long-term goal is to make flag football available to all age groups in Basingstoke. When we started back in August just having an adult team felt like a long shot, now we truly believe anything is possible."

For those keen on joining the team, visit the Basingstoke Turtles Flag American Football page on Facebook.