Online Reporter
Tinashe Kusema-Zimpapers Sports Hub
FORMER Zimbabwe Cheetahs rugby player Thabani “TJ” Maguranyanga has launched a flag football camp in Harare as he pushes to introduce the American sport locally.
The 23-year-old US-based player is awaiting word on whether he makes the Washington Commanders’ 53-man roster for the NFL season next month.
He impressed at the NFL’s International Player Pathway camp last year and signed a reserve/futures contract with the Commanders.
In the meantime, Maguranyanga is building at home. In partnership with the US Embassy, he hosted the TJ Maguranyanga Flag Football Camp at Harare Sports Club for children from the tag rugby programme.
“We are launching flag football here in Zimbabwe and will work with the NFL and the Washington Commanders,” he said.
“It’s about inspiring the youth and giving them hope. Drugs are hurting our communities right now. This is a pathway to keep kids off the streets and show them you are not restricted to Zimbabwe’s borders.”
What is flag football?
It is a non-contact version of American football. Instead of tackles, defenders pull a flag from the ball carrier. Teams play with five or seven players, not 11, on a shorter pitch.
The sport will make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games from July 15, with men’s and women’s tournaments at Exposition Park.
The IOC and IFAF will run the event with 10-player squads and five-a-side on the field.
Maguranyanga said Zimbabwe can target that stage.
He plans school and club leagues, an NFL academy, and scholarships to the US. for top players.
“The goal is to set the foundation now and come back next year with more camps,” he said.
“Flag football is now in US. high schools and colleges. The pathway is there. I’m hoping we have the next TJ coming up.”
