As the 2025 Championships kick off, Pacific island nations continue to defy the odds — proving that population size is no barrier to producing world-class sport, writes JAMES NALTON
NFL Academy starting to turn British talent into college prospects
Players compete during a football game between the NFL Academy team and De La Salle High School, October 8, 2024, in London
In a town shaped by hardship and history, a grassroots boxing club led by Andrew McFarlane gives purpose to the next generation — including a rising champion, writes JOHN WIGHT
RAFAEL VARONA BLAKSTAD had only asked for directions on campus. The guy wearing NFL Academy gear surprised the London native with his answer.
“He said ‘Have you ever played football?’ in the most American accent I’ve ever heard. I was kind of hooked from there,” said Varona Blakstad, who left a prominent rugby club to become a wide receiver.
The teenager and his mum had been visiting Loughborough University, where the NFL Academy is based. The man they bumped into was Lamonte Winston, head of the academy.
Similar stories
This weekend’s Super League matches across the pond could be a boon for the sport, writes JAMES NALTON
