History is being made as New Zealand’s first national junior Flag Football teams depart Auckland today for Los Angeles, where they will compete in the USA Football Junior International Cup.

The two sides, made up of under-15 and under-17 boys, include nine players from Christchurch, reflecting the city’s growing influence in one of the world’s fastest-growing sports.

The 24 selected athletes will represent New Zealand on the international stage from 20 to 22 June at Dignity Health Sports Park, home of the LA Galaxy and the US Olympic Training Center.

For most players, this will be their first international tournament wearing the silver fern.

One exception is Geo Pulotu, who previously played in the NFL Flag International Cup in 2024 with Bader Intermediate School.

Head of Delegation Russell McConnochie said the trip marks a major milestone for the sport in New Zealand.

“This is a monumental step forward for our national programme and a celebration of how far youth Flag Football has come in New Zealand.

We’re proud to see our boys take the field on the world stage,” he said.

The New Zealand teams will compete against junior squads from Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, the United States, Panama, Monterrey, Azteca and others.

The full travelling delegation includes 30 members: 24 players, four coaches, a team manager, and McConnochie.

They will be joined by internationally appointed officials Jayne Tuigamala and Rob Goodman, as well as a group of dedicated family and supporters who helped make the tour possible.

The tournament runs from 20 to 22 June 2025 in Los Angeles, California.