Phoebe Schecter had only watched two Super Bowls and found them “boring” before moving to the UK. This move sparked her surprising journey into the NFL.
At 22, Phoebe moved from the US to Cheshire, UK, feeling homesick and lonely. A Facebook ad changed her life forever, leading her into a career she couldn’t have imagined.
A Bold Move: From Horses to Football
Phoebe Schecter grew up in Connecticut with a passion for horse riding and studied equine business management. In 2012, she used her dual citizenship to move to a new job at an equestrian centre in Congleton, UK. Seeking new challenges, she found something entirely unexpected through a social media ad.
“It changed the complete trajectory of my life,” Schecter says of deciding to attend a women’s American football trial in Manchester in February 2013. She was eagerly looking to meet new people and embrace American culture while abroad. Despite knowing nothing about the sport, her enthusiasm and passion stood out.
Discovering a New Passion
What began as an effort to combat homesickness turned into a life-altering experience. Phoebe quickly became part of a new community and found herself deeply immersed in American football. By 2014, she was one of the founding members of the GB women’s tackle football team.
Phoebe began playing flag football and joined the Staffordshire Surge, a men’s tackle team. Her interest didn’t stop at playing; she ventured into coaching and completed internships with American universities and the NFL’s Buffalo Bills.
Rising Through the Ranks
By 2017, Phoebe had broken ground as Britain’s first female NFL coach, undertaking internships with the Buffalo Bills. Her limited prior knowledge of the sport meant fast-tracking her learning curve, creating glossaries and attending numerous coaching meetings to gain insight.
“It was a baptism of fire,” she recalls. Her innate curiosity and willingness to absorb as much information as possible helped her navigate a male-dominated environment. “Being curious has been really helpful for me,” she asserts.
Schecter’s gender occasionally played to her advantage, facilitating better communication with players from single-mother homes. “They just weren’t used to it in a coaching capacity,” she notes, referring to her positive influence on these athletes.
There were challenges, too. Phoebe faced hostility from those who questioned her credentials. Yet, she stayed focused on proving her competence and commitment through consistent effort and passion for the game.
Breaking into Broadcasting
Phoebe Schecter’s venture into broadcasting was serendipitous. Having done some radio work, she began appearing on Sky Sports’ American football coverage during the Covid lockdown. She soon found herself hosting live shows, marking the first time women had presented in that capacity.
Despite facing skepticism on social media, Phoebe’s presence alongside established figures like Neil Reynolds and Jason Bell bolstered her credibility. “That’s been massive for my development,” she says, appreciating the acknowledgment of her expertise.
Schecter’s adaptability and continued development have helped her flourish in broadcasting. Her consistent, positive energy has made her a respected analyst in the field.
The Olympics Beckon
Phoebe Schecter has not only made her mark as a broadcaster and coach but also as a player. She will represent Great Britain at the Flag Football World Championships, and with flag football set to debut in the 2028 Olympics, the future looks promising.
Flag football’s growth is noteworthy. Played in over 100 countries with around 20 million participants, its inclusion in the Olympics is a testament to its rising popularity. Great Britain’s women’s team, the 2023 European champions, are ranked fourth globally.
Coach Dean Whittingslow acknowledges the steep financial costs for players but is hopeful of better funding with the team’s success. Phoebe’s longstanding involvement and leadership remain crucial, even as younger talent emerges.
A Journey of Personal Growth
Phoebe Schecter’s story is one of continuous personal and professional growth. Her transition from feeling homesick in a new country to becoming an NFL coach and broadcaster is inspiring.
Her unwavering dedication, curiosity, and passion for the game have not only changed her life but also impacted countless others in the sport. Now, as she prepares for the Flag Football World Championships, Phoebe embodies the spirit of perseverance and adaptability.
Looking to the Future
Phoebe Schecter’s future in the sport seems bright, whether as a player or coach. “There should be better, faster, stronger people coming to take my spot,” she muses, showing her commitment to the sport’s growth.
Her journey has been “absolutely insane,” as she puts it, and her focus now is to give back as much as possible. Phoebe continues to inspire others with her energy and commitment, making the most of every opportunity.
Flag Football’s Inclusivity and Growth
Flag football is celebrated for its inclusivity and accessibility. Phoebe’s participation in the sport highlights its welcoming nature and its rapid growth globally.
From school fields to the Olympic stage, flag football’s journey is a significant milestone for American football. As it progresses, pioneers like Phoebe Schecter play a crucial role in shaping its future.
Phoebe Schecter’s commitment to American football is undeniable. Her journey from equestrian pursuits to NFL coaching and broadcasting underscores her incredible adaptability.
As she continues to break barriers and inspire others, Phoebe’s story exemplifies the transformative power of sport, showcasing how passion and dedication can lead to unforeseen and remarkable achievements.
