Los Angeles Chargers Expand NFL Flag Football in Greece

Los Angeles Chargers strengthened their presence in Greece through two powerful NFL initiatives in Athens and Thessaloniki, aimed at promoting and developing Flag Football ahead of its inclusion in the Olympic Games 2028.

In Thessaloniki, the Chargers hosted an outstanding Flag Football Camp for the first time at the facilities of Pinewood American International School at the Anatolia Campus. More than 300 young athletes actively participated in the program, training under the guidance of the Los Angeles Chargers’ specialized staff and the Hellenic Flag Football League. A standout moment of the day was the presence of Chargers linebacker Daiyan Henley, who shared valuable insights and experiences from the highest level of the NFL. During their visit, the Chargers delegation also met with the Mayor of Thessaloniki, Mr. Stelios Angeloudis and participated in a special event organized in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy in Greece and the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce at the American Space.

During the second day, a Flag Football Camp was hosted for the first time in Athens, at The American College of Greece, transforming its athletic facilities into a professional NFL training environment. More than 200 students took part in the camp, while representatives from the academic community, government officials, and the U.S. Embassy in Greece were also in attendance. Once again, the participation of Chargers Linebacker Daiyan Henley added strong momentum to the initiative, inspiring the next generation of athletes.

These two initiatives culminated on Sunday, February 8, with a Super Bowl Night Watch Party held at the impressive facilities and studios of COSMOTE TV, the official broadcaster of NFL in Greece. The event brought together government officials such as US Ambassador to Greece, Ms. Kimberly Guilfoyle, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Harry Theoharis, and Secretary General of Sport, Mr. George Mavrotas, athletes, journalists, and members of the Los Angeles Chargers organization, celebrating the NFL and its growing connection with the Greek audience. Guests watched the Super Bowl live from COSMOTE TV and experienced the first NFL Live pre-game show organized in Greece featuring guests directly connected to the event such as the Chief of Staff for the Los Angeles Chargers Mr. Fred Maas, the Chargers Senior Director Football Development Mr. Zac Emde and Chargers Linebacker Daiyan Henley.

On the continued collaboration between the NFL and the Chargers’ flag football activations, the Chief of Staff for the Los Angeles Chargers, Mr. Fred Maas, highlighted: “One of Greece’s greatest strengths is its deep passion for sport, and we truly want to begin our efforts with the youth here."

Through these initiatives, Los Angeles Chargers reaffirm their commitment to the international growth of Flag Football and to building strong, lasting ties with the Greek sports and local community. The presence of the Los Angeles Chargers carried additional symbolic significance, as the Spanos Family team’s ownership has Greek roots, further strengthening the emotional and cultural connection between the NFL organization and Greece. As a result, the Chargers’ activities in Greece represent not only an exciting international expansion, but also a meaningful homecoming that strengthens the cultural and emotional bond between the franchise and the Greek public. The Spanos Family’s vision for the Los Angeles Chargers extends beyond the field, focusing on youth development and the global growth of Flag Football, with Greece seen as a natural hub for long-term grassroots investment. By expanding NFL Flag Football initiatives in Greece, the Chargers aim to create sustainable pathways for youth participation, nurture future talent, and contribute to the sport’s growth ahead of its Olympic debut in Los Angeles 2028. 

All activities were supported by the U.S. Embassy in Greece, whose active involvement underscored the role of sport as a powerful tool for youth engagement, cultural exchange, and community building. Through its support, the Embassy highlighted the importance of interpersonal diplomacy and the shared values that unite Greece and the United States. The collaboration between the Los Angeles Chargers, educational institutions, local authorities, and the U.S. Embassy reflects a broader commitment to fostering international cooperation through sport, creating meaningful opportunities for young people, and strengthening the enduring relationship between the two countries.

For more information on upcoming initiatives in Greece, visit www.chargers.com or follow the Chargers Greece on social media: