Spend 8 unforgettable weeks on the Irish coast with the Causeway Giants, combining your love of American football with travel, culture, and coaching. Train with the team, gain real experience in local schools, and earn a coaching qualification while exploring Ireland’s stunning north coast.
Extend to 11 weeks with an optional Scotland adventure, visiting Edinburgh, Glasgow, the Highlands and sleep in a Castle!
Program Structure
- 8-week program in Northern Ireland – Live in Portrush, train and coach with the Causeway Giants, take part in school outreach, and experience all that Ireland has to offer.- Extend your stay by 3 weeks – After the 8-week base program, you can choose to: - Join the Celtic Catalyst students in Scotland, experiencing Edinburgh, Glasgow, and the Highlands. - Travel with the European Catalyst students to the Netherlands, Germany, and France. - Stay in Portrush for an additional 3 weeks, continuing your coaching, school outreach, and enjoying more time in the vibrant seaside community.
This flexibility means you can design a program that fits your goals — whether you want to deepen your impact in Ireland or expand your journey across Europe.
Live the Portrush Lifestyle
As an American Football Program student, you’ll live alongside participants from our Catalyst programs, sharing the same central Portrush accommodation.
- 20 seconds from the train station for easy access across Ireland.- Minutes from beaches for surfing, paddleboarding, and sunset walks.- Surfboard, wetsuit, and e-bike provided so you can explore at your own pace.- Traditional Irish music nights in pubs where you’ll experience authentic Celtic culture.- A welcoming seaside community where making friends with locals is easy — in cafés, shops, and at live music nights.- Shared living with Catalyst students ensures both independence and a built-in social circle.
Portrush isn’t just where you stay — it’s where you’ll live like a local and build friendships that last a lifetime.
What You’ll Do
- Train with the Causeway Giants and experience American football’s growth in Europe.- Play in league games if you want (completely optional).- Help coach and mentor younger Giants players.- Take part in school outreach, introducing the sport to children and teenagers.- Earn an official coaching qualification.- Work with local people to develop both the sport and your own skills.
Community & Sport Impact
- Championship Pedigree: In just their fourth season, the Causeway Giants won the AFI Division 1 Plate Championship, proving their competitive edge and rapid growth.- Civic Recognition: The team has been honored by the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, reflecting its importance to the local community.- League Credentials: The Giants compete in American Football Ireland (AFI) Division 1, with home games at Limepark Playing Fields in Armoy.- Growing Popularity: American football is one of the fastest-growing sports in Northern Ireland — you’ll be part of a movement that’s capturing local and national attention.
By joining the program, you’ll not only live abroad and play the sport you love but also help shape the future of American football in Ireland.
Independence + Support
This program is designed for young adults ready for independence.- Plenty of free time to explore, travel, and relax.- Independent living in Portrush with fellow Catalyst students.- 24/7 staff support always available when you need it.
A Typical Day
Morning – Breakfast and group catch-up, then training or coaching sessions with the Causeway Giants.Afternoon – School outreach, community coaching, or free time to explore.Evening – Cook and share dinner with fellow students, then surf, cycle, or enjoy live music in a local pub.
Free Time & Adventure
- Surfing in Portrush (board & wetsuit included).- Coastal cycling and castle exploration on your e-bike.- Trips to Dublin, Belfast, Donegal, Galway, and the Giant’s Causeway.- Live music, cafés, and nightlife with new friends.- Weekend trips to explore Ireland or even hop on a short flight to mainland Europe.
FAQs
Do I need to play in games?No. Playing in league games is optional. You can choose to focus on coaching and school outreach instead.
Where will I live?In Portrush town centre, sharing accommodation with Catalyst students — 20 seconds from the train station and minutes from beaches, cafés, pubs, and shops.
Do I need to have played football before?Yes. This program is open to male and female students who have played high school football.
What qualification will I earn?You’ll gain an official coaching qualification, providing a credential that strengthens applications for sports, coaching, teaching, or education careers.
How independent will I be?You’ll be treated as an adult, with plenty of free time and the freedom to explore. Staff are on hand 24/7 if needed.
How many students are on the program?Each intake is capped at 6 students, making this a selective and close-knit experience.
How long is the program?The base program is 8 weeks. You can extend your stay by an additional 3 weeks, choosing to join the Celtic Catalyst students in Scotland, the European Catalyst students in the Netherlands, Germany, and France, or remain in Portrush for more coaching, outreach, and seaside living.
Apply for 2026
14 February
27 September — Limited to 6 studentsChoose the American Football Program — live abroad, grow the game, inspire young players, gain an official coaching qualification, and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime gap year experience.
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