Seven teams representing five International Federation of American Football (IFAF) member federations will compete in the first-ever flag football tournament at the IV South American Youth Games Panama 2026 from April 17-19.

IFAF asked Brazil U17 boys head coach Marcos Ferrete for his thoughts on the upcoming games. Coach Ferrete has worked with Gators São José dos Campos (São Paulo State Champions – Caipira Conference), Flamengo RJ, and Tribais São José dos Campos. He also served as head coach of the Spartans at the 2024 Barcelona International Tournament. He is a two-time Brazilian champion with Flag Kings, and served as defensive coordinator for the Brazil national team from 2021 to 2024. What are your hopes for the tournament? “Our expectation is to put everything we have worked on throughout our preparation on the field, clearly showcasing the team's identity and the group's growth. We had a consistent training period focused on tactical aspects, team chemistry, and athletes' decision-making. We know the level of competition will be high and that we will face very well-prepared teams, which makes the tournament even richer.

“Beyond the competitive side, the cultural and sporting exchange with other national teams directly contributes to raising our level, broadening our athletes' vision of the game, and accelerating the team's development. We enter the competition with the goal of competing at a high level in every game and, naturally, with the ambition of fighting for a spot on the podium.” What has the team done to prepare and what was the selection process for the U17 team? “Our preparation included two in-person training camps, during which more than 60 athletes were evaluated. We also held approximately 30 hours of online sessions focused on tactical material study, video analysis, nutritional support, and physical conditioning. Athletes were assessed not only at the camps, but also during the national youth tournament at the end of 2025, as well as through conversations with the coaches of the clubs where these athletes play. We evaluated physical fitness, technical flag football skills, versatility to play more than one position, and adaptability to our tactical system.” Who are some of the players we should watch out for? “Keep an eye on our wide receivers Leonardo Pessanha and Pablo Santiago, as well as our quarterback Artur Guissoni. On the defensive side, Ruam Souza is a player to watch.” What do you think about flag football now being an Olympic sport and has that created more interest in Brazil? “Flag football becoming an Olympic sport is extremely positive and represents a milestone for the discipline. It has brought more visibility, credibility, and organization, which has naturally increased interest in the sport in Brazil.