In a landmark move for American football in Greece, the Los Angeles Chargers will host the country's first official NFL Flag Football events on the island of Santorini this October, strengthening the team's growing ties to the Mediterranean nation.
The initiative, supported by the Municipality of Thira as part of the "Santorini Experience" program, marks a significant step in the Chargers' international outreach and celebrates the Greek heritage of the Spanos family, which owns the franchise.
Scheduled for October 10–12, 2025, the events will include youth flag football camps for ages 11–13 and 13+, an exhibition game featuring NFL legends and active players, and a watch party for the Chargers vs. Dolphins regular-season game. The program aims to promote flag football ahead of its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
"This isn't just about growing the sport globally—it's about inspiring a new generation in a safe, educational environment," team officials noted, emphasizing the personal connection through owners Dean and Michael Spanos, grandchildren of Greek immigrants from the island of Symi.
Special guests will include former Chargers running back Melvin Gordon, Greek-American Super Bowl XLII participant Niko Koutouvides, player-coach Melina Malaxos, members of Greece’s Aegean Elite football team, and Chargers coaching staff.
The visit follows the Chargers’ Athens trip in April 2025, when they announced a draft pick from the historic Grande Bretagne hotel.
Los Angeles Chargers Main Event Schedule:
First Flag Football Camps in Greece
Friday, October 10, 10:00-12:00
For children aged 11-13: A flag football camp aimed at teaching and understanding the sport’s basic principles in a safe environment.
Saturday, October 11, 12:00-14:00
For teenagers aged 13+: A flag football camp focused on learning and understanding the fundamentals of the sport in a safe setting.
Flag Football Exhibition Game
Friday, October 10, 12:30
A friendly flag football match featuring NFL legends and active players, offering a dynamic demonstration of the sport for a new audience.
Watch Party: Chargers vs. Dolphins
Sunday, October 12, 19:30
Greek media representatives and NFL fans will gather in Santorini to watch the Chargers vs. Dolphins game.
Distinguished Participants
The events will be honored by the presence of notable personalities, including:
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Former Chargers running back Melvin Gordon
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Greek-American former NFL linebacker and Super Bowl XLII participant Niko Koutouvides
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Greek-Swedish-American football player and coach Melina Malaxos
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Members of the Aegean Elite American football team in Greece
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Coaching staff of the Los Angeles Chargers
For more information about activities in Greece, visit www.chargers.com or follow the Chargers on social media.
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