The NAL Adds South American Players To Roster

ATLANTA - The National Arena League is excited to announce a new opportunity for football players from South America. The NAL owners have unanimously approved an international exemption to the active roster. This exemption will allow teams to increase their game day roster from 21 to 22 players.  

Eugenio Castro of Chile owns The Development Sports Academy, which teaches athletes in South America the game of american football. This is a great opportunity for these young athletes to learn the arena game and be able to play at the next level. “I met with Eugenio a few months ago when he was visiting,” said Commissioner Chris Siegfried “and his vision for football in Chile includes potentially fielding a team in the NAL at some point in the future. We are both thrilled about this opportunity.”

The Columbus Lions will be the first NAL team to invite a South American player to training camp.

Head coach of the Columbus Lions Jason Gibson said, “It’s a great opportunity for the Columbus Lions. I have had experience with international players in the past and it’s been a great experience. I look forward to bringing Felipe Castillo (OL) to Columbus. I love the passion the players and coaches from The Development Sports Academy have shown for Arena Football. It’s a huge step for the National Arena League on and off the field and I am excited about the direction the league is going.”

Josh Blair, Lions Owner also added, “I lived in Chile for a couple years and I know how passionate the South American people are about their sports and to be able to learn about Arena Football through one of their own players' eyes is even better. This is a great first step for Arena Football in South America.”

The National Arena League is looking forward to introducing the arena style of football to South America. This is a great opportunity to grow the NAL brand and start the process of expanding internationally.