On August 28, 2026, Ballyboden, Dublin will host an exciting event titled "Ireland's Kicking King: Road to Ryan Field." Scheduled from 7 PM to 8:30 PM, this event offers free tryouts for males and females aged 16 to 24, aiming to discover the next American football star.
The event invites participants to showcase their kicking skills in a supportive environment, particularly targeting those with backgrounds in Gaelic football, rugby, or soccer. With the expectation that over 90% of attendees may have never kicked an American football before, the event promises a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.
Participants will receive coaching from a Leader Kicking coach, who will demonstrate the techniques for kicking an American football. Following practice sessions, each participant will attempt field goals from various distances, with a Longest Kick competition also featured. The top three performers from this regional event will advance to the quarter-finals, where approximately 30 of the best kickers from across the country will compete.
The ultimate winners from the Aviva semi-final on August 29 will earn a trip to America, along with two months of specialized training with Leader Kicking. They will then have the opportunity to kick at halftime on November 7 at Ryan Field, where Northwestern University will face Iowa University. The overall winner will also receive a cash prize.
This event not only offers a chance to compete but also the possibility of being featured in a documentary that could reach millions globally. With past participants successfully transitioning to college football and even signing NFL contracts, "Ireland's Kicking King" is a remarkable opportunity for aspiring athletes.
