Europe Gap Year; American football in Ireland
Hosted by
Europe Gap Year; American football in Ireland
- Northern Ireland
- Belfast
- Ireland
- Dublin
About Program
Choose an 8 or 11-week American football gap year in Ireland and Scotland for 18–22 year olds.
Live in the seaside town of Portrush on Ireland's north coast, training and coaching with the Causeway Giants while helping grow American football through local school sessions.
Earn an official coaching qualification, develop leadership and independence, and experience Irish culture through organised trips and everyday life.
Live with other gap year students, with beaches, cafés and transport on your doorstep, plus a surfboard, wetsuit and e-bike included.
The 11-week option continues through Scotland, visiting Edinburgh, Glasgow and the Highlands.
Designed for young adults who want to grow in independence, learning to live in a real-life environment, being independent and accountable. 24/7 staff support, accommodation, travel, activities, training and most meals included.
8 weeks: £10,000 | 11 weeks: £13,500.
2026 Fall: 27 Sept | 2027 Spring: 14 Feb.
Scholarships available.
Program Highlights
- Live in Portrush town centre, sharing accommodation with Catalyst students — 20 seconds from the train station and minutes from beaches, cafés, pubs, and shops.
- This program is open to male and female students who have played high school football.
- You’ll be treated as an adult, with plenty of free time and the freedom to explore. Staff are on hand 24/7 if needed.
- Access to surfboard and wetsuit as well as an e-bike for the duration of your stay in Portrush.
- Trips to Dublin, Belfast, Donegal and more!