News
February 9, 2026
Ace High Sports proudly announces its sponsorship of the Bournemouth Bobcats American Football team, who are celebrating their 40th anniversary in 2026.
The Bournemouth-based indie game studio is developing Touchdown Poker, which combines Heads-Up Texas Hold’em strategy with hard-hitting gridiron action. The game reimagines poker, replacing the gambling element with the scoring and excitement of American Football instead. Players win hands to drive upfield, score touchdowns and defeat opponents.
Mike Hawkyard, co-founder of Ace High Sports, said: "Both the players and supporters of the Bobcats have been incredible, helping us playtest Touchdown Poker and supporting our fundraising efforts. It feels fantastic to give something back to our local American Football community, and we’re excited to follow the team’s progress throughout the upcoming season."
Luke Clark, Bournemouth Bobcat’s Head Coach and Chairman, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be working with Ace High Sports. Touchdown Poker game, whilst still in development, is outstanding and I hope it will introduce the beautiful game of American Football to even more people.”
Alannah Blinkhorn, Club Secretary of Bournemouth Bobcats, said: “The Bournemouth Bobcats are delighted to welcome Ace High Sports as an official sponsor. As a member of the executive committee, I’m excited about the opportunities this partnership creates and the positive impact it will have on the club’s future. We’re looking forward to an exciting journey ahead together.”
Interest in American Football is growing in the UK, with recent research by the NFL estimating there are more than 13 million fans, 4 million of whom are ‘avid’ and expected to watch Sunday's Super Bowl LX match: Patriots v Seahawks as it happens.
The Bobcats compete in BAFA Division 1 South (Southern Football Conference), kicking off 2026 away at South Wales Warriors on April 19.
