Northwest Vipers ready to unleash the venom in Derry opener
Fans urged to pack Prehen as Northwest Vipers take on the South Dublin Panthers
Riding the wave of global Super Bowl fever, the Northwest Vipers - the North West's only American Football club - are calling on the local community to pack Prehen for their 2026 home opener this Sunday, March 1.
The senior kitted team will face off against the South Dublin Panthers in a highly anticipated clash at Prehen Playing Fields. After a rigorous off-season of training, the squad is ready to return to the turf for a 1.00pm kick-off.
Supporters are reminded that this fixture marks a temporary move to Prehen from the club's usual home ground.
"The squad have put in serious work for this," a team spokesperson said. "We’re ready, we’re excited, and we want to see the local area come down to support their team and help us unleash the venom."
The return to action comes at a pivotal time for the sport in Ireland. With Flag Football officially included in the 2028 Summer Olympics, interest in the game is at an all-time high.
The Vipers are currently capitalising on this growth by recruiting players for their Senior (18+), Youth (15-18), and non-contact Flag (16+) programmes.
No previous experience is required, and the club welcomes athletes of all backgrounds and abilities to join their ranks.