Introducing the sport to schoolchildren would allow those who might not want to go down the rugby or league path a potential pathway to another sport. “There is raw and really good football talent here,” he said. The aim was to establish in the primary school system and eventually grow the sport into high school sports, Whyte said. “Our ultimate goal is regular competitions throughout all the schools in the country.” Aotearoa had “untapped potential” for gridiron, and as the NFL expanded, it was only a matter of time before New Zealand produced its next big star, Whyte said. The sport will appear at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, showcasing American football worldwide. One of the complaints that some people had was that American football had too many rules, but Whyte said the sport was quite simple to follow. “The rules are very simple when you break them down.” Flag football is non-contact, with no tackling or helmets required for playing the game and a reduced risk of concussion, he said. Flag football games would be played for most of the day on April 2 at Blake Park, with spectators welcome.