Geraint Griffiths Champions Wheelchair American Football’s Rise

The quest for wheelchair American football to secure a spot in the Paralympic Games is gaining momentum, spearheaded by Geraint Griffiths, general manager of the UK club Chester Romans. Griffiths has a vision to build a global platform for the sport, inspired by the success of similar adaptations in other formats of American football. As the sport evolves, Griffiths aims to increase participation among individuals with disabilities and create opportunities that have previously been scarce.

This initiative took off shortly before the onset of the coronavirus pandemic when Griffiths, a lifelong fan of the Las Vegas Raiders, found himself captivated by a wheelchair basketball game. Recognizing that the skills involved could easily translate into a football format, he began to chart a course for wheelchair American football. With the pandemic providing time for reflection and planning, Griffiths began developing an official rule book, leading to the sport’s first official showcase during Nickelodeon’s Slimetime Super Bowl special in February 2024.

The British American Football Association (BAFA) has since approved the UK’s official rules, and Griffiths has pitched the sport’s development to all 74 nations at the International Federation of American Football congress in Switzerland. The growing interest in wheelchair American football was further validated when the sport received an invitation to propose a showcase event at the upcoming Birmingham 2027 Invictus Games.

Griffiths emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities. “Currently, only one in four people with a disability participate in sports,” he explained. “Three out of four want to be involved but lack opportunities.” His goal is not only to establish teams but also to foster a culture of inclusivity in sports.

There are currently two teams in training, with four more in development, including the Road to Birmingham Club. Griffiths envisions establishing three teams in the Midlands and three in the southern regions of the UK. The ultimate goal is to host the inaugural UK Wheelchair Football Super Bowl, pitting the best of the north against the best of the south.

Strong international interest also surrounds the initiative, with countries like Austria, Australia, Ghana, and Canada expressing eagerness to embrace the sport. Griffiths highlighted a poignant story of a former player who, after losing his legs in combat, found solace and purpose in wheelchair football. “I never got to say goodbye, now I don’t have to,” the player remarked, reflecting the profound impact the sport can have on individuals’ lives.

Griffiths noted the importance of accessibility in the sport’s design. He has opted for a smaller playing field, comparable to a basketball court, to enhance safety and technical gameplay. This adaptation not only makes the sport more accessible globally but also emphasizes sustainability. Moreover, the BAFA has allocated part of its Sport England grant to support the sport’s growth.

Despite the challenges of funding, Griffiths remains optimistic about the future. “The more people see it, the more opportunities will present themselves,” he stated. He envisions collaboration with NFL teams, aiming for a UK version of the sport to gain traction.

The sport’s rules have been adapted to ensure safety for players. For instance, fumbles have been eliminated to prevent injuries from reaching for loose balls. Griffiths is also exploring helmet design options, ensuring they provide protection while remaining comfortable for players with specific health concerns.

Currently, the sport relies on standard basketball chairs as a cost-effective solution while manufacturers express interest in developing specialized wheelchairs in the future. Griffiths has laid a comprehensive blueprint for wheelchair American football, positioning it for global recognition.

Looking ahead, Griffiths is eyeing the 2032 Paralympics in Brisbane as a potential showcase opportunity. “Flag football has exploded, and I hope to present a completed project at the Paralympics,” he said, underscoring his ambition for wheelchair American football to reach new heights.

With Griffiths at the helm, wheelchair American football is poised for a significant breakthrough, capturing the attention of a global audience eager for inclusive sporting events. This journey reflects not only a passion for the game but a commitment to inclusivity and opportunity for all.