The Jacksonville Jaguars were delighted to support the Exmouth Community College as they officially opened their new multi-functional astroturf last week (Wednesday 11th February). The astroturf facility – part-funded by public body, Sport England - is significant for the growth of American Football as it is the first facility in the UK to incorporate permanent American Flag Football markings into the design.

Jacksonville Jaguars UK Director, Laura Oakes visited the college in Devon, South-West England last year and saw first-hand how participation and interest in the sport of American Football has grown in the school: "To see the game grow at the grassroots level in the UK is very exciting. These new facilities will ensure that Exmouth Community College can continue to deliver exceptional sport, not just for their students, but for the community as a whole. I am delighted that their American Football programme continues to thrive and that these new facilities have been designed to incorporate American Football as part of their on-going sports programme. Growing the game at grassroots in the UK is of central importance for the Jacksonville Jaguars and the NFL and we look forward to continuing to support them as their programme develops."

The Jacksonville Jaguars provided Exmouth College with new flag football equipment to use in their programme. The astroturf was formally opened by ex-England International soccer player Steve Perryman MBE and Exeter Chiefs rugby player David Ewers. After the ceremonial ribbon cutting, students from the school demonstrated their skills and tested out the new facility with an American Football demonstration using the equipment provided by the Jaguars.