THE Orpington-based Kent Exiles' American Football Club has formed new youth teams following some very successful local events, and is now inviting children from the ages of seven and up to come and have a go.

The Exiles will have teams in three age groups cadets (7-11 years); juniors (11-14) and youth (14-18), and all three teams will play the non contact flag' version of the sport, in a five-versus-five configuration.

They will participate in the British Youth American Football Association Leagues, which currently has around 50 teams in each age group with games being played during the summer.

The Exiles have appointed Mike Pemberton as its head youth coach and he will have two others to assisted him.

Pemberton is a fully qualified flag football coach, and has been training children for the last six years.

He is also involved in the American National Football League's grass-roots programme to promote flag football in this country.

Both boys and girls can play this easy-to-learn version of the sport, and all equipment for training will be provided by the club, so the children just need to turn up on the day!

Training commences this Sunday, from 11am to 2pm, at the Exiles' Orpington home base of Hoblinwell Park, in Petersham Drive.

Of course, the Exiles also have a well established senior team which plays the full-contact version of the game.

The players are already in training for the coming season, which starts in April, but would welcome any new or experienced players.

Anybody who is interested in any aspect of the club should call Dave on 01689 831207 or Martin on 07944 730634, or e-mail: kent.exiles@btinternet.co.uk

More details can also be found on the club's websites: www.eteamz.com/kentexafc or www.kent.exiles.btinternet.co.uk