The Frankston High School dynamo was selected to represent Victoria in the under-15 boys’ team at the inaugural American Football Australia Youth Flag Nationals.
For those unfamiliar with the sport, flag football offers a safer alternative to traditional American football. “Instead of tackling, you have to grab a tag from a belt,” Zac said. “There are also only five players per side on the field at any one time. The field is also smaller.”
Zac’s introduction to flag football began two years ago. “I first played in Grade 6. My PE teacher, Mr Runchey, introduced the sport to our school and our Derinya Primary School team won the state final and got to play in the nationals on the Gold Coast.”
Playing on the defensive line, Zac embraces his role with enthusiasm. “I enjoy the responsibility of being the first defender the attacking team need to get past,” he said.
The national competition, held at the AIS, brought together teams from Victoria, ACT, NSW and Queensland. “We had four games scheduled two hours apart, so we would support the other Victorian teams that were there while we weren’t playing.”
Victoria performed admirably against tough competition. “We were very competitive against the ACT and NSW, winning one game and losing one game against both. Queensland were extremely strong and won every game. We made the grand final and lost to Queensland but the grand final was the closest game they had.”
The tournament provided unforgettable moments for the young athlete. “My personal highlight was getting an intercept touchdown against the ACT with six minutes to go. We thought we had to beat them by six points to make the grand final and that touchdown got the scores to level. We got another touchdown soon after to win through to the final.”
Apart from his interest in flag football, Zac maintains an active sporting life. “I play basketball, AFL and also cricket at school. Basketball is great for agility, and the fitness from AFL is very helpful.” Managing this busy schedule requires discipline. “I have sport on nearly every night, so I have to be a good student and get my work and homework done in class.”
The AIS experience was particularly special for Zac. “It was great to see the other athletes in the village. We saw the basketballers and I spoke to an Olympic boxer who was living in the same area we were staying.”
With flag football set to make its Olympic debut in 2028, Zac remains measured about his future in the sport. “I haven’t really thought about (the Olympics) too much, as I will still be quite young, but if I keep developing, who knows?”
The sport’s technical nature presents some challenges. “It is very technical and you have to know the rules so you get a good advantage.” However, the team environment remains a highlight. “We all get along very well and it is very inclusive.”
While Victoria’s flag football community continues to grow, our region might just be witnessing the birth of its newest sporting dynasty. Remember the name Zac Jenkins; this is just his opening play.
