Chicago Bears to bring American Football experience to Liverpool

NFL franchise Chicago Bears are set to visit the UK for the fifth consecutive summer later this month.

The team, who narrowly lost out to the LA Rams two games before the Superbowl last season, will also feature stops in Manchester and Loughborough for Flag Football Clinics, girls flag football championships and a ‘fan activation’ at the Royal Albert Dock.

The visits aim to make American Football more accessible, inclusive and engaging for young people.

Chicago Bears vice president of fan development and brand marketing Sarah Smith said:

“The UK continues to represent a tremendous opportunity for the Bears to deepen our connection with our fans and communities while helping grow the game of football on a global scale, whether it’s providing a memorable brand experience or supporting the growth of flag football, we are committed to establishing the Bears as a leading international sports and lifestyle brand for years to come.”

Flag football is a safer alternative to the traditional sport, where flags are pulled from the belt of a player, eliminating the need for helmets and heavy padding, similar to tag rugby in the UK.

The Bears’ tour will begin in Manchester on June 15, the Bears will be joined by Hall of Famer Devin Hester as well as current player Elijah Hicks. Bears legend Charles ‘Peanut’ Tillman, who you may recognise from an interview he did with Everton great Peter Reid, will join up with the team in Loughborough. Another current player, Josh Blackwell, will also join in before they head to Liverpool on Sunday June 21.

Special activities will take place at Royal Albert Dock from 11-6pm, including an exclusive meet and greet, photo opportunities and giveaways. To round out the tour, the Bears will host Flag Football clinics in Liverpool on June 22 and 23 with the help of Tillman and Blackwell.