By Jodie Nesling

Flag football club Thanet Mustangs are hoping for the ultimate boost for their sport - Olympic recognition.

The club, founded in 2021 during lockdown, have already tasted success on the international stage with four of their members helping GB’s girls to gold at the under-17 European Junior Championship in Italy this summer.

A non-contact version of American football, flag football is gaining popularity as an inclusive sport. Instead of tackling, players have to grab an opponent’s flag attached to their clothing as they move forward with the ball to try and score a touchdown.

Now, with a two-minute commercial in this year’s Super Bowl half-time break - the world’s most lucrative TV advertising slot - flag football is under consideration for Los Angeles 2028 and could be joining the established sports of athletics, swimming, rowing, diving and gymnastics among others.

Matilda Deakins from Whitstable was part of the under-17 team that won gold, beating the hosts 19-6. Team spirit, she thinks, was crucial to their success.

“We actually lost our first game against Italy,” she said.

“But I really believe that helped us win overall. We began to support each other during matches much more and it made a huge difference.

“It was an anxious wait before we were announced winners. It was crazy. I didn’t know where to look - everyone was congratulating us.”

Fellow Team GB player Darna Kelleher, from Westgate, says the sport has transformed her life.

“I could talk about flag football forever,” she said.

“We met so many amazing people in Italy - both personally and professionally - and we learned a lot.”

The 14-year-old joined the Mustangs two years ago to help with socialising.

“I was withdrawn from mainstream school and this has helped me so much,” she added.

“It’s such an inclusive sport and the fact it is non-contact made it less intimidating for me. Boys and girls play together from a young age.”

Coach and founder Phil Cartwright says the success of the club is down to two things - inclusivity and subsidies.

“Playing sport should not be a privilege depending on your economic background or gender,” he said.

“Every young person has the right to play, train, grow and excel on and off the field.

“Thanet Mustangs is committed to creating a space where everyone is seen, valued and has the chance to take part and progress physically, mentally and competitively. I have seen first-hand just how vital this service is for young people.”

The club have now launched a crowd funder so they can continue nurturing their young stars and - more importantly - provide an inclusive space for anyone who wants to join in.

They aim to raise £9,594 to cover equipment, kit and a packed lunch at each of their three weekly training sessions.

Kelleher is already anticipating the sport will be selected for the 2028 Games.

“That would be amazing,” she said. “We are really hoping it happens as it is being hosted in the US.”

Mustangs cater for girls and boys aged between eight and 17. For more information, visit thanetmustangs.org