The first Elite Series Clinic delivered by Jacksonville Jaguars UK and the Union Jack Classic received glowing reports after bringing together aspiring American football players for a day of high-performance coaching and on-field development.

The clinic was held ahead of the first-ever college football game at Wembley Stadium, with the Union Jack Classic bringing in University of Kansas head coach Lance Leipold to support the session. Leipold’s Jayhawks will face the Arizona State Sun Devils in London on 19th September.

Hosted at Kings House Sports Ground in Chiswick on Saturday, the coaching event welcomed 100 athletes across two age categories (18–22 and 23+), giving participants access to elite instruction and a structured, competitive training environment provided not just by university staff, but also those from Jacksonville Jaguars UK and experienced BAFA coaches.

Throughout the day, players took part in combine-style assessments, position-specific drills and controlled competitive periods, mirroring elements of NCAA Division I training. Designed for players already competing at an advanced level, the clinic focused on refining technical ability, improving positional understanding and exposing attendees to the standards expected within top-tier American football programmes.

“It’s been a great experience working with the players here in London,” Leipold commented. “There’s a clear passion for the game and a willingness to learn, which is exactly what you look for as a coach.

“Opportunities like this are valuable not just for player development, but for growing the sport internationally. Being able to share our approach and connect with athletes outside of the US is something we’re really proud to be part of.”

The Elite Series Clinics form part of the broader collaboration between the Jacksonville Jaguars UK and the Union Jack Classic, aimed at strengthening the domestic American football pathway while building momentum ahead of the inaugural Union Jack Classic fixture later this year.

“From day one, we’ve wanted to play a part in growing the American football community here in the UK in a way that really adds value,” Brian Dubiski, co-founder and CEO of the Union Jack Classic, explained. “The Elite Series Clinic is a big part of that, giving players the chance to learn from top-level coaches and experience what the game looks like at a higher level.

“There’s clearly a lot of momentum behind the sport right now, and it’s important we keep building on that. For us, this is about creating more opportunities, connecting people within the game and helping players take the next step in their development.”

Jenn Toy, vice-president of events and international operations at the Jaguars shared Dubiski’s enthusiasm.

“This is exactly the kind of environment we have worked extensively to create for players in the UK, one where they can challenge themselves, learn from top-level coaches and experience the intensity of elite training standards.

“Seeing the level of engagement and quality across both sessions on Saturday was incredibly encouraging. It shows how much the game has developed here, and why opportunities with partners like Union Jack Classic are so important in supporting the next stage of that growth.”

The clinic also formed part of a wider visit to the UK by the University of Kansas programme. During their time in London, Leipold and representatives from the institution undertook a visit to Wembley, gaining a first-hand look at the venue that will host the Union Jack Classic later this year.