When American Football first aired on British TV in the eighties, it seemed more of a novelty than a sport that would establish roots. But now, with games shown weekly on Sky and BBC and the annual Wembley games attracting sell-out crowds it has grown from strength to strength in popularity.
However most fans of the sport are unaware there is a burgeoning domestic American Football scene. With thriving Youth and Women’s leagues, Scotland boasts over twenty teams at various levels.
Much like in the U.S, the hotbed for the game and its greatest area of growth, has been in university sport and is under the control of BUCS, the governing body for all student sports.
With a competitive league since 1985, there are now over 80 teams, 3 layers of regional divisions, and a national title game. BUCS American Football has exploded on to the sporting scene, with many players advancing to professional contracts in Europe or scholarships in the US for the talented few, and experienced American student-athletes travelling in the opposite direction to play one last year overseas.
Student sport hasn’t always been appetising for the average spectator, but with the growing professional outlook of universities in other sports, it is currently undergoing a revival. With its steady stream of new recruits and its amateur ethos but competitive nature, the high-energy world of student sport provides a refreshing changeup to the traditional sporting calendar.
Hosted annually at Meggetland Stadium since 2012, the Varsity game packages a rivalry fixture in a big game environment. With affordable tickets, free entry for children, and a slew of additional game day activities including youth games, bands and cheerleaders, the event continues to grow in popularity year on year.
Scheduled on Superbowl Sunday the biggest day for exposure to American Football in the UK, the match boasts colourful and noisy fans who enjoy a family friendly sporting occasion. Last year’s game attracted over a thousand supporters who are encouraged to make as much noise as possible and are seen wearing inventive and colourful costumes that add to the carnival atmosphere.
This year’s game will see an East-West fixture as the Edinburgh Napier Knights clash with the Glasgow University Tigers for the MacKenzie’s Challenge Trophy just hours before Super Bowl LIII (53).
Entry to Meggetland is free for Under 16s and discounted for students £3, with adult tickets at £5. Entertainment is provided by live music, a DJ and the Edinburgh Napier Panthers Cheer Squad. The university’s alumni association will host a VIP lounge, and the Knights’ youth team, aged 11 to 16, will be playing prior to the game.
Gates open from 1pm, with kick off at 2.30pm, with tickets providing entry to a Superbowl party at The Three Sisters bar in the city’s Cowgate from 8pm. This year’s Superbowl game will see the New England Patriots take on the L.A. Rams.
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