Strategy & Policy

Strategy & Policy

The American Football Association of the Netherlands (AFBN) is continuously working on the development and future of our sport. We do this from a clear vision, supported policies and with an eye for a safe, inclusive and sustainable sports climate. On this page you will find an overview of our core strategies, policy documents and ambitions.

Multi-year policy plan

The AFBN's strategic plan is the compass for our sports development.

In it, we describe our goals for the coming years In the area of:

  • Membership growth in flag and tackle football

  • Strengthening clubs and association structures.

  • Talent development and top sports programs

  • Quality improvement in arbitration, coaching and governance

  • Accessibility and inclusion

The strategic plan is prepared in consultation with members and approved by the General Assembly.

Download here the AFBN Multi-Year Policy Plan 2024-2032

Annual plans

Based on the strategic plan, the AFBN proposes a concrete annual plan every year on. In it, ambitions are translated into executable actions, with clear goals for each domain: sports technical, organizational and managerial.

The annual plan includes:

  • Scheduling of activities and competitions

  • Spearheads by committee and staff

  • Projects for growth and development

  • Budget in relation to policy choices

Download here the 2025 Annual Plan

Annual Reports

The AFBN publishes Annual status report within the union.

In this report, we look back on:

  • Sporting and organizational highs and lows

  • Financial developments and budget justification

  • Activities of committees, board and director

  • Looking ahead to ambitions for the coming year

Annual reports are shared with members at the General Membership Meeting and are available for download.

The following reports are available for download:

Diversity & Inclusion Policy

The AFBN faces a safe and open sports environment for all - regardless of gender, origin, sexual orientation, religion or disability. We want everyone to feel welcome, on and around the field.

Therefore, we are working on:

  • Awareness training and guidelines for clubs and officials

  • Active support for women's, youth and mixed teams

  • Diversity in committees, board and executive positions

  • Collaboration with organizations such as NOC*NSF and Pride & Sports

We believe: American football is for everyone.

Download here The AFBN Diversity & Inclusion Policy.

Volunteer Policy

Volunteers are the engine of our sport.

The AFBN supports clubs and volunteers themselves by:

  • Clear job descriptions and on-the-job training programs

  • Volunteer recruitment and retention support

  • Training and handouts for club boards

  • Attention to social safety and manners

  • Transparency about dual functions and family ties through protocols

Our goal: volunteers who feel valued, safe and effectively deployed.

Download here the AFBN Volunteer Policy.

Do you have questions, suggestions or want to contribute ideas about policy or future vision? Feel free to contact us via this link .

Together, we are building a strong, fair and inclusive future for American Football in the Netherlands.