The San Francisco 49ers have announced the launch of NextGen Flag Football, a landmark initiative introducing flag football into school curricula in the United Arab Emirates for the first time. The program is delivered in collaboration with GEMS Education, the country’s largest network of schools, serving more than 125,000 students.
The program has already begun rolling out in select GEMS schools, with further expansion planned from January 2026, signalling a long-term commitment to grassroots sport and youth development in the UAE.
Designed to integrate seamlessly into physical education lessons, NextGen Flag Football equips participating schools with essential equipment, tailored curriculum resources and structured coaching support. Teachers will receive ongoing in-person training from 49ers representatives throughout the academic year, while students will have the opportunity to apply their skills in end-of-season flag football tournaments that bring participating schools together.
The launch builds on a series of successful 49ers-led flag football clinics held at GEMS schools earlier this year, including the first NFL team-hosted flag football event in the UAE at GEMS World Academy Senior School. During these sessions, more than two dozen physical education teachers were trained in the fundamentals of coaching flag football before taking part in hands-on student sessions. Students experienced NFL-style practice drills, introductory flag games and a surprise visit from 49ers mascot Sourdough Sam.
“Seeing the enthusiasm from students and teachers ever since the first clinic at GEMS has been truly inspiring,” said Justin Prettyman, Executive Director of the 49ers Foundation. “We’re thrilled to launch NextGen Flag Football and to work with GEMS going forward. By introducing students to the fundamentals of flag football, we’re not just teaching a game; we’re helping them develop teamwork, confidence, and leadership skills that will last a lifetime.”
Jay Varkey, Deputy CEO of GEMS Education, added: “At GEMS Education, we are committed to providing our students with a truly holistic education that nurtures not only academic excellence but also character, teamwork, and resilience. Our collaboration with the San Francisco 49ers reflects this vision, bringing world-class sporting expertise into our schools through the NextGen Flag Football program. This will offer our students unique and exciting opportunities to learn, lead, and grow through sport, reinforcing our belief that physical education is a vital part of developing well-rounded, future-ready young people.”
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(L-R) Sourdough Sam_ Jonathan Casbon, Director, 49ers UAE_ Justin Prettyman, Executive Director, 49ers Foundation_ Heath Monk, CEO, GEMS World Academy_ Robin Montgomery, GEMS Education Senior Leadership Team
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The first 49ers Flag Football Clinic at GEMS
The UAE launch also reflects the 49ers’ expanding international presence through the NFL Global Markets Program. Awarded activation rights in the UAE earlier this year, the franchise continues to grow its global footprint following success in the United Kingdom and Mexico, where local fanbases have increased by more than 50 percent. Since 2021, the 49ers have delivered more than 50 community events across international markets, using sport as a platform to connect with and inspire young people worldwide.
