Tracking the Growth of U17/U16 Kitted Football (2004–2024)
Since the inception of U17 (and subsequently U16) kitted football in 1988, an impressive 102 different teams have taken part in at least one season. This interactive racing bar chart brings that history to life, visually showcasing the rise and fall of team participation over the years. Watch as teams race across the timeline from 2004 to 2024, reflecting the evolving landscape of youth American football across the UK.
U17 Teams – League Participation levels 2004 to 2024
NB: 2009 and 2011 have incomplete data, results and tables are currently unknown. 2020 Covid
The Data Tells a Sobering Story
Over 100 U17 kitted American football teams have taken the field in the UK.
But here’s the catch:
Nearly half of them never made it past their second season.
The chart below reveals the stark reality — 46 out of 102 teams folded after just 1 or 2 seasons:
So what’s going wrong?
Possible Reasons So Many Teams Disappear Early
We’ve spoken to coaches, administrators, and former players to understand the deeper causes. Here’s what we found:
🧱 1. Fragile Foundations
Many teams are started by passionate individuals, but without long-term support structures, they struggle to survive once those key people step away.
😓 2. Volunteer Burnout
With no paid staff, everything from coaching to fundraising to safeguarding falls on a few shoulders — and burnout comes fast.
🧒 3. Hard to Recruit, Harder to Keep
Convincing teens to commit to a full-contact sport is tough — especially with stiff competition from rugby, football, and other activities.
💸 4. Equipment Costs Are a Major Hurdle
Helmets and pads can cost hundreds of pounds per player. Without external funding or shared resources, some clubs simply can’t afford to continue.
🚌 5. Too Much Travel, Too Few Games
Limited regional opponents means long trips for short games. That can be a hard sell for families and volunteers.
🏢 6. Inconsistent League Support
A lack of consistent structure and support from national bodies has historically left some clubs unsure of what they’re working toward.
📉 7. Growing Too Fast
Some teams skip over key development stages — like flag or junior contact — and go straight into full kitted play before they’re ready.
💰 8. Socioeconomic Barriers
In lower-income areas, the cost of kit and transport can make the sport inaccessible to many.
Why It Matters
When teams fold early:
- Players miss out on long-term development.
- Volunteers get disillusioned.
- Communities lose an outlet for sport and teamwork.
Understanding these issues is the first step in building something better.