From Schoolyard to National Spotlight
Hannah and Lucy Machin, identical twins from Manchester, first stepped onto a flag football field through their enrollment at Fisher More Roman Catholic High School. The school’s participation in the Bears UK girls flag football league gave the sisters an early chance to test their skills against peers, and what began as nervous curiosity quickly turned into confidence.
Under the guidance of assistant coach Richard Johnson, the twins helped their team, Fisher More, capture the Girls Flag Football National Championship. Their contributions were highlighted by Bears director of football development Gustavo Silva, who praised the pair for their excitement, skill and competitive spirit.
The league itself has grown dramatically, now comprising 43 teams spread across Manchester, London and the Midlands. This expansion reflects a broader ambition to create equitable opportunities for girls in sport, a goal echoed by NFL Global Flag Ambassador Phoebe Schecter, who noted the participants’ deepening understanding of the game and their fierce love for it.
Josh Blackwell, a cornerback for the Chicago Bears, also attended a recent session and was struck by the girls’ tenacity. “Seeing that level of competitiveness at such a young age is inspiring,” he said, adding that the league serves as a clear pathway for talented players to earn spots on Great Britain’s U15 and U17 squads.
Since its inception in 2022, the Bears UK initiative has impacted more than 10,000 young people, offering them a structured environment to develop both athletic and life skills. The Machin twins’ journey illustrates how school‑based programs can translate into national recognition and future international competition, with the ultimate dream of representing Britain at the 2028 Olympics.