About this site
Chalkline is an independent guide to American football in the UK, written for people who are curious about the game and want a clear place to start.
What this site is
This is a small editorial project with five guides: the rules of the game, positions and kit, how competition is organised in the UK, the history of the sport in Britain and a beginner's route into playing. The aim is plain explanation, written for readers who have never played.
What it is not
The site is not a club, a league, a governing body or a broadcaster, and it is not affiliated with any of them. It does not publish squads, results, fixtures or ticket information. Nothing here is an official statement of any organisation.
How the guides are written
Each guide sticks to well-established facts: the structure of the game, widely documented dates and the general shape of the British competition system. Where details change from season to season, such as league divisions, the guides say so and point readers to the official sources of the governing bodies and of university sport.
A note on accuracy
Rules differ slightly between the NFL, college football and amateur competitions, and clubs set their own practical arrangements. Treat these guides as an introduction and check details with the relevant organisation or club before you act on them.