Darlington American Football Club Secures Funding to Boost Youth Participation
A thriving American Football club based in Darlington is set to provide more local young people with opportunities to try the sport, thanks to a significant four-figure grant from regional employer the Banks Group. Darlington Steam, which operates multiple teams playing both full-contact league games and non-contact flag football matches, is the only club of its kind between Newcastle and Leeds.
Grant Details and Club Expansion
The club has received a £2,000 grant from the Banks Community Fund, which will be used to purchase new equipment for try-out sessions and fund training courses to increase the number of qualified coaches. This initiative aims to make the sport more accessible and support both current players and new recruits. Founded in 2013, Darlington Steam runs a senior side and four age group teams, with over 55 junior players in its academy.
Impact on Youth Development
Lee Kelly, youth team head coach at Darlington Steam, emphasized the benefits of the sport: "As well as being a great sport in itself and really good for physical fitness, we find that it makes a very positive impact for many of our young players in terms of self-discipline, focus and self-confidence." He added that the technical aspects require concentration, helping players develop skills that translate to other areas of life.
The club draws players from across County Durham, Darlington, and surrounding towns, holding training sessions every weekend at Darlington’s South Park. Several players have earned representative honours with Team North and Team GB, with some advancing to play in American colleges or professionally in countries like Norway and Germany.
Community and Business Support
Kate Culverhouse, community relations manager at the Banks Group, stated: "Darlington Steam already gives dozens of local young people the chance to try, learn about and succeed at this exciting sport, and we’re very pleased to be backing the ambitions of this excellent community sports club to do even more." The Banks Group is behind the proposed Beaumont Hill residential development in Darlington, which includes plans for up to 600 homes and public open spaces.
With increased visibility of American Football in the UK, following events like the Super Bowl, the club hopes to attract more participants. The Banks Community Fund is independently managed by Point North, and community groups near Banks Group projects can apply for funding through the company’s website.
