Although the American National Football League ended its European League in 2007, the sport’s 16 year professional run in Germany did drum up support. Young Germans are also familiar with the sport from the year abroad in the States that is becoming popular among high school seniors.

Berlin Adler are the best amateur team in Berlin. Those with less expertise might want to try out for the Berlin Rebels (www.berlin-rebels.de), the second-tier team in the amateur German Football League (GFL). Women interested in playing should check out www.ladiesfootball.de. Those good enough to play in the GFL should consider the Berlin Kobra Ladies (www.berlin-kobra-ladies.de).

One of the best playing options, however, is a casual game with expats. The best place to meet fellow fans and players is at English-speaking bars such as Belushi’s at Rosa-Luxemburg Platz (030 8145 3960) or Murray’s Irish Bar at Kottbusser Tor (030 6156 917) when they broadcast American football matches.