Louth Mavericks form new youth team

There’s a new chapter being written for the Louth Mavericks, and it’s starting with the next generation.

With the 2025 senior season well underway, they're proud to launch their youth team, laying the groundwork for future Mavericks to develop their skills, build confidence, and fall in love with American football.

After a strong turnout at our first practice at the DKIT Pitches, there’s already plenty of optimism for what this group can become.

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“The goal is simple: we’re focused on making consistent progress every week,” said their Youth Head Coach, John McArdle.

“If we can help these young athletes leave the season more confident, disciplined, and resilient than when they started, then we’ve done our job.”

A step forward

The creation of our youth team is part of a bigger vision. With the sport’s steady growth across Ireland and a deepening roster at senior level, we recognised the need to start developing talent earlier.

“This is a building block for the future of our program,” said offensive coordinator Nathan Hearty.

“We want kids to learn the game the right way, from the ground up — and we want to give them the chance to grow into confident players before they even hit senior level.”

The Mavericks youth team gives players aged 15–18 the chance to learn the fundamentals, understand the values of the sport, and get hands-on coaching from current Mavericks senior players.

Growth

Their training sessions are designed to be fun and developmental. They're teaching the basics, from stance and footwork to tackling, throwing, and blocking, with an emphasis on leadership, discipline, and teamwork.

They are not just focused on X's and O's; we’re building a culture that promotes toughness, respect, and mental strength. As Mavericks defensive coordinator, Maleek Abdul-Rasheed put it:

“I got into football because I wanted to challenge myself physically and mentally. Over time, it became a passion. It pushes me to be stronger, more disciplined, and a better teammate every day.”

Pathway

One of the most exciting elements of this youth team is the pathway it creates.

Young players who fall in love with the sport have multiple directions they can go: joining the senior squad, trying out for the Irish national team (the Wolfhounds), or even pursuing opportunities abroad in college or European leagues.

American Football teaches more than just sport, it builds confidence, responsibility, communication skills, and resilience.
Get Involved

With their youth program officially underway, they are inviting more young athletes to come out and give it a shot. You don’t need any prior experience, just boots, a gumshield, and an open mind.

Training runs on Saturdays from 10am to 11:30am at the DKIT Pitches in Dundalk. New players are always welcome, and all sessions are run by experienced coaches and players from the senior team.

We’re building something special — and there’s still plenty of time to get involved. If you or someone you know wants to try American football, message us through our social media channels or come down and meet the team.