About us
Discover glory on the 'Gridiron' with The Renegades.
From a gritty start in 1985 as the Reading Renegades, the team battled through the UK’s American Football leagues, facing tough competition in the Budweiser League and Combined Gridiron League. Early years were a rollercoaster with hard-fought wins like the 1986 Farnham Knights victory, mixed with winless seasons like 1987.
After the club folded in 1990, the Renegades roared back in 2005 as The Berkshire Renegades, joining the BAFL and laying the foundation for a resilient squad that won't back down.
The reborn Renegades hit the ground running, navigating the BAFA Community Leagues with determination and grit. Early struggles in 2006 gave way to breakthroughs, like the thrilling 2007 last-second win over Plymouth Admirals. By 2010, The Renegades had clinched their first playoff, and in 2011, dominated with a 9-1 record to claim the Conference Title. Promoted to Division 1, the team racked up wins, including an 81-0 victory against Essex Spartans in 2012 - nothing but firepower!
In 2015, after a brief hiatus, The Renegades returned stronger, charging to a 9-2 record in 2016 and clinching the SFC-2 Championship in 2017 with a 9-1 season and playoff victories over East Kent Mavericks and Wembley Stallions. Renegades is a team that's built on pure heart and huge hustle.
With flag football now debuting at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, The Renegades Youth Flag Program, which has fostered players like Luke Barry, is actively encouraging new talent to join our Youth Flag teams (U11, U14, U17) and to pursue Team GB trials.
So, whether you're looking to play in the Full Contact Adult Team, to claim your place in one of the fast developing Full Contact U19, U16 Teams, or to join the squad of one of our Adult or Youth Flag Teams, we're here for you.
This is your chance. Step up. Suit up. Play Ball.
Forging Greatness on the Gridiron Since 1985
The Berkshire Renegades, a powerhouse of American Football passion, cultivating raw talent into fierce competitors on the contact and flag fields since 1985.
Our history
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1985
Reading Renegades Formed
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2005
Berkshire Renegades join the BAFL
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2011
Won Division 2 South West Conference
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2015
Berkshire Renegades Flag Football Founded
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2017
Secured first-ever SFC-2 Championship
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2024
U11 Flag Football Central Tournament Winners
FLAGFEST
FlagFest, hosted annually by the Berkshire Renegades American Football Club at Woodford Park Leisure Centre, is a vibrant charity event that brings together flag football teams from across the UK to support Sport in Mind, a local mental health charity.
This fun-filled tournament fosters community spirit, promotes physical activity, and raises vital funds. Team entry fees are donated directly to improve lives through sport. For the club, FlagFest showcases its commitment to inclusivity and player development, while strengthening ties with the local area. It’s a celebration of teamwork, resilience, and giving back, making it a highlight for both the Renegades and the wider Berkshire community.
COACHES AND TEAM staff
GENERAL MANAGER - THE RENEGADES
'KIWI' (SHAUN BLAKE)
General Manager, coach, and player, Kiwi is the heartbeat of The Berkshire Renegades. His passion and leadership inspire players across all ages and his commitment extends off-field, with him spearheading events like FlagFest to support local charities.
HEAD coach - ADULT CONTACT FOOTBALL
Pat Joseph
Bringing unmatched passion and expertise to the field. Pat's strategic brilliance and motivational leadership inspire players to push their limits, fostering a culture of resilience and teamwork. Pat’s commitment to excellence drives the team’s success.
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HEAD COACH - ADULT FLAG FOOTBALL
Carlos Haigwan
Carlos’s passion for flag football fosters a dynamic, competitive environment, He has an approachable style and knack for building team spirit. With a sharp tactical mind and ability to identify and develop skills, Renegades Flag Football is able to thrive.
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HEAD coach - YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL
Jason CUNNINGHAM
Jason creates a fun, skill-focused environment to inspire young athletes. His approachable coaching style builds confidence and emphasises development and growth. With flag football now an Olympic sport, Jason’s sharp eye for talent is also more important than ever!
HEAD coach - U19 CONTACT FOOTBALL
TONY WHITE
With deep game knowledge, Tony is a BAFA-registered youth team coach who ignites passion in young athletes. Having just retired from the senior team in 2025, his full transition to coaching brings a player’s perspective, inspiring and driving the next generation to excel.
HEAD coach - U16 CONTACT FOOTBALL
SEAN TOMEY
Bringing relentless discipline and top-tier training, Sean is a new coach at Renegades. As a former player he's made it his mission to elevate the youth contact program to new heights, and with his rigour and focus, the U16's will soon be ready to dominate.
YOUTH coach - U19 // U16 CONTACT FOOTBALL
ARCHIE WHITE
A former U19 offensive line captain, now a senior team player, Archie has a commanding presence and sharp football mind. A BAFA-registered player-coach who fully fuels his teammates with pro-tips, in-depth feedback and unwavering support.
FLAG AND U19 // U16 - TREASURER & SECRETARY
PENNY O’Connor
Passionate about fostering a positive space to play, Penny's organizational prowess helps to ensure the smooth running of youth initiatives, creating an environment where young players can flourish, she's an invaluable asset to The Renegades family.
