21st December 2004 - Dr.Kurt Smeby dies
With great sadness we have to report the death of one of the great UK coaches. Dr.Smeby was involved in the British & Irish game from it's earliest days and went onto coach numerous clubs, including Northants Storm, Stoke Spitfires and Leicester Huntsmen before moving onto coach the Irish National side.
He was elected to the Minor Football Hall of Hame, and more recently he was involved with Force USA. Dr.Smeby will be a great loss to Britball.
17th December 2004- Four new teams for the BSL
The BSL will welcome 4 new teams to the League for the 2005 season. The Andover Thrashers, Colchester Gladiators and the West Coast Trojans will all enter the league and will be rejoined by the Manchester Titans who return to action following a year out rebuilding. For more go to www.gridironuk.co.uk
7th December 2004 - BT Calls On The Exiles
The Kent Exiles youth team received a boost to their pre-season training this week when they announced the signing of their first sponsor. The Exiles were awarded £300 pounds from the BT community champions scheme, the scheme rewards groups who actively work to benefit the local community, especially through participation in sport. The award was gained via team member Ted Smith who works for BT, Ted commented "I'm delighted with the award of course, I've been a member of the Exiles for a few years now, and as with most amateur clubs funding is hard to come by. It is very positive that BT recognises it's employees work, and the award has given us a fantastic opportunity to benefit the kids with some much needed new equipment". Exiles youth Head Coach James McCartney was also delighted with the award, "Ted does a huge amount of work for the club as a whole, and for this to be recognised by BT is fantastic, since the Exiles youth team was created last season we've been constantly making huge strides, and this is another one to add to the list."
The Exiles plan to use the money to purchase some much needed playing kit for it's members, especially as the recent recruitment drive has seen an influx of new members to the team, but the club is planning to press on with this at it's next minicamp on Sunday 12th December at their Orpington home, any new members to the youth or senior teams are welcome to attend, for more information the club can be contacted via their website www.kentexiles.co.uk
6th December 2004 - Olympians Impress Lions
This weekends GB Lions Camp at Crystal Palace National Sports Centre was the first time the Lions have met since winning the Group B European Championships in Amiens over the summer. It was a great turnout - with players obviously wanting to be part of the successful squad - nearly 70 people turned out over the 2-day camp, 13 of which were Olympians - Stuart Franklin (QB), Matt Meyers (OL), Adrian Samuels (OL/DL), Tamas Byrnes (WR), Jeremy Simms (WR), Danny Watts (DL), Lawrence Reid (DL), Damien Anderson (LB), Tim Newton (LB), Jay Taylor (LB), Aaron Alexis (LB), Wesley Roach (CB), Onoh Ozongwu (SS) - “This was a great start to the coming campaign for the GB squad, we need to build on what we achieved in France and prepare for the tougher tests this summer.” Said GB Lions & London Olympians Head Coach Riq Ayub in summary of the weekend.
Judging from the efforts put in by every player this weekend a lot of people our relishing the challenge of punching above their weight against the Germans, Swedish and Finns. Coach Ayub also added when asked of his London Olympians players, “All of my players put in the high levels of effort I expect from them over the whole weekend, I was very proud of them”, particular praise was given to Aaron Alexis, Danny Watts and Onoh Ozongwu “These guys really impressed me in France, none of them had much experience of senior Div 1 football before last year, yet they played admirably at the highest levels, they seemed to have improved over the winter taking on board the improvements that have been asked of them by both the Club and the NFL (Danny and Onoh were both invited to the NFLE Camp in Cologne as young prospects for the future)”, “ in 2004 a lot was asked of Aaron, he took a big step up from Div 2 and found himself starting (due to problems with player registrations), and played very well, he seems to have gone away in the off season and increased his strength and speed.”
GB Team Captain Damien Anderson, was also impressed by the level of work put in by the players over the weekend, “It was great to see so many dedicated players from so many different teams across the country come to London”, “We had more coaches down for this camp than previously and I really think it helped to keep the players on the boil, the whole environment at Crystal Palace was excellent, and as close to a professional camp I have seen in the UK, allowing all the players to put in 100%”
The next GB Weekend Camp should be held on the 5th & 6th February 2005 (Check www.bafa.org.uk) when competition for places should really hot up.
The London Olympians are constantly looking to boost their squad and provide the UK’s premier coaching. Anyone interested in joining the family contact sacha@londonos.co.uk or anyone interested in helping out in a staff capacity contact info@londonos.co.uk
3rd December 2004 - Coaching and staff opportunities with the London O's
"For a number of years now, our strength has been the football we have played on the field. The architects of this have been the football coaches. We have been fortunate to work with a number of dedicated people in our organisation past and present. From our ranks coaches have gone onto coach professionally and nationally in the domestic game. The ethos of our club has always been education and for all involved to be students of the game. This in its self has promoted coach development. Coaching involves commitment, time and a desire to give, which is possible when managed correctly in our day-to-day life.
The club will help with all aspects of coach education and run sessions to cover on and off field teaching methods. The British American football Coaches Association run a qualification programme which the club supports and would ask new coaches to embrace. We are also interested in coaches who wish to cross over from another sport.
We recognise that for us to move forward we need to recruit more committed men and women of any age or experience to help us with all four facets of our club both as coaches and trainee coaches.
· Senior
· Youth
· Junior
· Flag (non – contact )
The age groups we work with are from 8 to however long a player can physically cope with the sport. There is a real sense of family and belonging around the club, which we would like to continue to promote. There is also a hunger and determination to raise the bar of performance and team excellence. Our team motto is “STRENGTH THROUGH DESIRE”. If you would like to begin coaching or are already coaching but would like a new challenge why not write or call us to discuss opportunities further.
info@londonos.co.uk Riq Ayub 07956-379161 "
London O’s Staff Recruitment
The London Olympians senior team, are the most successful team in the history of British American Football, with 13 British Championships and 3 European Championships. We are currently in the process of restructuring and are offering the unique opportunity to become an integral part of the family.We are looking to fill the following roles within our club: -
§ Statisticians
§ Kit Managers
§ Game-day Assistants
§ Reporters
§ Photographers
In return for your services, as well as being an integral part a winning team and the most successful team in Europe, you will be invited to all official team events, given team apparel and of course travel free of charge. If you would like to apply for this role please email:sacha@londonos.co.uk stating the job title and leave your name, number and a brief description of what you can offer the team.
Statisticians
This role requires a dedicated individual, with excellent attention to detail. American Football is, like most American sports, all about stats. The stats provide useful information used by; supporters to track their favourite players, coaches to give an indication of who is doing what, and the league in order to make the league look more professional and to compile the information needed for end of season awards and players to give them a target and increase competition within the team. You will need to be available for all home and away fixtures and depending on the number of statisticians willing to help gather stats for; Offence, Defence and Special Teams (Or a combination)
Kit Managers
This is a vital role for someone that is trustworthy, organised and able to work under game day pressure. You will look after the teams stock of equipment, keeping a log on who has borrowed what, checking the stock of spare parts and making the necessary orders. You will also need to ensure that the club uniforms stay in pristine condition. Game day is when your preparation will show; with you carry out emergency kit repairs and provide spare parts for players to get them back on the field as quickly as possible. You will need to be available for as many home and away fixtures and possible.
Game-day Assistants
Game day is an exiting and busy time and it starts long before the players arrive at the stadium, especially as we are now based at Crystal Palace National Sports Centre. We need assistants to help set up the field and stands before the game and carry out a number of duties during the game including; Ball Person, Chain Gang Stewards, and then help put the field away.You will need to be available for as many home games as possible and as a reward you will have the best view of the game and game build-up as well as being part of the winning team.
Reporters
We require a passionate supporter of American Football with a good grasp of the written English language to interpret first hand the teams on field endeavours into an interesting account of the game that will be read by; Internet users via the London O’s website and British Senior League website, Britball fans Across Europe via First Down (Weekly Paper) and many Local London papers. You will need to be available for as many home and away games as possible and as well as game report be able to put together press releases and general interest stories.
Photographers
Working in partnership with our reporter you will capture the images that help bring the stories to life, allowing readers to feel like they were at the game. Ideally you will possess your own equipment, but a camera can be loaned to you if necessary. You will need to be available for as many home and away games as possible and as well as game report be able to put together press releases and general interest stories.
3rd December - Bristol Aztecs announce St Pauls Community Sports Academy as venue for Open Tryouts
Bristol’s own American Football team, the Aztecs, are delighted to have joined forces with the St Pauls Community Sports Academy for the city’s first open tryouts. The Aztecs will be putting new recruits through their paces on Sunday 12th December, giving everyone a chance to join the South West’s premier team for the 2005 season. Aztec Recruitment Officer Charlie Wilson commented “This is a great venue for us. The facilities on offer are excellent, and the city centre location is ideal for our needs.” The St Pauls Community Sports Academy opened in April 2003, funded by £1.8m of Lottery money, with the remainder coming from Bristol City Council and the Bristol Community Sports organisation. The Academy offers full disabled access, an indoor multi-purpose hall, 3 outdoor floodlit courts, including one all-weather court, a health and fitness suite and 2 multi-purpose rooms.
Les Antoine, Group Health and Fitness Manager at St Pauls, added “We’re very happy to be hosting this event, as part of the wide range of sporting activities on offer at the Academy. This is central to our objective of getting Bristol people more active and participating in sports.”
Wilson explains “The Aztecs have always provided the opportunity for anyone to play and enjoy the sport, but this is the first time we’ve been able to offer open try outs for new recruits. The day will be run very much along the lines of the assessments used in NFL and NFL Europe, and will give anyone a chance to show what they’ve got. We have players coming who are looking to convert from Rugby Leage, Rugby Union, Basketball, Soccer and even Cricket. However, we still want to hear from more people – this is your chance to be a part of the Aztecs.”
The Aztecs have made it to two consecutive National Finals in 2003-04, but Head Coach Mark Hopkins is keen to keep adding talent to the West Country outfit. Coach Hopkins commented “We have our full squad coming back from last year, and some exciting new additions, but all positions are open from the first practice to the opening kick off.”
The 2004 Aztecs featured six players selected for Great Britain duty, including European All Star Charlie Wilson, and NFLe triallist Steve Hopkins. The Senior team is also welcoming several promising prospects graduating from the club’s Youth programme, ten of whom were selected for Great Britain Youth. The club expects to keep adding players to the select group that have gone on to play at the highest levels.
In addition to the excellent players on the team, the Aztecs also boast a top coaching staff. Head Coach Hopkins is arguably Britain’s most successful American footballer ever, having made it into the professional ranks with the World League of American Football. Voted in 2004 as the best British player ever at his position, Hopkins has recently added yet more excellent coaches to his staff for 2005.
New Offensive Coordinator Scott Hoffman played for 4 years at the highest level in American college, starring at the Univerity of Purdue from 1990-92, playing alongside several future NFL players and Superbowl champions. Also joining the Aztecs is Offensive Assistant Steve Lee, a familiar face to the organisation, who boasts 18 years playing and coaching experience, including two tours of duty with the Great Britain Bulldogs and the Southern University Allstars.
Wilson added “Initial interest in the tryouts so far has been phenomenal, I’m really looking forward to the event. We start at 10am, and no specialist equipment is needed.” To register for the event, contact Wilson on chazwilson@hotmail.com or by calling/texting 07977 229 674. No previous experience is necessary, and all enquiries will be dealt with in strictest confidence.
3rd December 2004 - Chester Romans announce rookie tryouts
Sunday December 12th @ Chester Rugby Club at 1.30pm (until around 4pm). People are asked to bring suitable clothing and football boots, kit if you have it!For a map please visit www.romansfootball.com
28th November 2004 - Bristol Aztecs announce tryouts
The Bristol Aztecs, Bowl finalists in 2004, have announced tryouts for the 2005 season, to be held on Sunday 12th December.
The squad that has made it to back to back Bowl games returns for the new campaign, but Head Coach Mark Hopkins is keen to keep adding talent to the West Country outfit. Coach Hopkins commented ‘We have our full squad coming back from last year, and some exciting new additions, but all positions are open from the first practice to the opening kick off.’
The 2004 Aztecs featured six players selected for Great Britain duty, including European All Star Right Tackle Charlie Wilson, and NFLe triallist Left Tackle Steve Hopkins. The Senior team is also welcoming several promising prospects graduating from the club’s Youth programme, 10 of whom were selected for Great Britain Youth. The club expects to keep adding players to the select group that have gone on to play at the highest levels.
Recruitment Officer Wilson added ‘Interest in the tryouts so far has been phenomenal, I’m really looking forward to the event.’
To register for the event, contact Wilson on chazwilson@hotmail.com or by calling/texting 07977 229 674. No previous experience is necessary, and all enquiries will be dealt with in strictest confidence.
9th November - London Olympians on the look out for new talent. Join one of the WORLDS most succesful amateur sports organisation. Players of all ages ( 8-38 ) and experience are welcome at all positions. You just need to be healthy and willing to learn from the best coaching the UK has to offer. The London Olympians will be holding tryouts on: Sun 14th & 21st November 2004 you may attend one or both sessions. Arrive at: 10am for registration at: Crystal Palace National Sports Centre - Main Reception Ledrington Road, London, SE19 2BB
Bring: As this will be a non-contact tryout just sweats and shoes suitable for Astroturf Contact: Tel - 07946 188339 email - sacha.conte@ntlworld.com We are also offering the opportunity for those who would like to get invloved on a non-playing basis and become staff members with positions including: Kit Manager, Statisticians, Reporters & Gameday Assistants. For more information check our website over the next week: www.londonos.co.uk
9th November - The London Olympians will be well represented when the cream of European American football talent gathers in Cologne, Germany, from Sunday November 7 until Friday November 12 for a six-day mini-camp aimed at highlighting the players who will star in the 2005 NFL Europe League season and the NFL season beyond.
Among the 85 prospects being put through their paces by NFL Europe Director of Game Development Tony Allen will be 16 British athletes, 8 of which are London Olympians meaning the United Kingdom will have the highest representation of players outside of Germany (30). A total of 13 European countries will be represented at the camp.
Hoping to make the league for the second year will be Linebacker Aden Durde, Running Back Warren Keen and this time round specialising at Kicker Andy Boyle.
The following will also be joining them in Germany looking to stake their claim and catch the eye of the many top NFLEurope coaches that will be in attendance:
After a exploratory visit last year to see what was required of him, 3rd year Wide Receiver Marvin Allen has been training his socks off and honing his skills becoming one of the most electrifying players on the Olympians offence with the ball in his hand. Kevin Okpoti's invite was a surprise not because we doubted his immense talent but because he was unable to attend the tryouts but it looks as if the 1st year player did enough to impress during the seasonby playing a major part in the defensive backfield and also became the main man at kick return with exhilarating (if sometimes unorthodox) returns. Two other young 1st year recruits that caught the eye at the trials were Defensive End Danny Watts who joined us a few games into the season, and played an important part in GB’s successful Group B European success (being voted onto the All-stars team), and Defensive Back Onho Ozongwu, who showed all season what a great athlete he is. Most surprising and probably most deserved invite, was Gary Thomas who at 38 must be the most senior player to attend this stage of the tryouts. It is the icing on the cake of a career than has spanned over a decade, and is testimony to the way he has played this year, since switching from the Dark side of the line, to the Offensive-line.
The London Olympians would like to congratulate all the following players from around the league.
Aden Durde -LB (London Olympians)
Warren Keen -RB (London Olympians)
Andrew Boyle -K (London Olympians)
Gary Thomas -T (London Olympians)
Danny Watts -DE (London Olympians)
Kevin Okpoti -S (London Olympians)
Ohno Ozongwu -S (London Olympians)
Marvin Allen -WR (London Olympians)
Lennox Johnson -CB (London Blitz)
Jermaine Allen -CB (London Blitz)
Russell Goodall -FB (Southern Sundevils)
Shaun Smith -LB (Southern Sundevils)
Alan Blake -T (Ipswich Cardinals)
Jeff Brown -CB (Chiltern Cheetahs)
Steven Hopkins -T (Bristol Aztecs)
On the increase numbers of British Players attending camp this year, NFL Europe Director of Game Development Tony Allen said, “We have put a lot more resources into scouting a market that we believe is full of talented football players and athletes. We have done a good job of identifying prospects from the United Kingdom who we feel can make an impact in NFL Europe and the NFL beyond. “Every year we seem to be able to find new, young players, from across the United Kingdom and that reflects well on the general growth of the sport in this country. We are not just looking at American football but also looking closer at sports such as rugby, athletics and basketball.
A proud Coach Ayub added, “This has been a great year for British American Football, we have had two teams competing in Europe, Great Britain became Group B European Champions and the British Senior League has a new title holder in the most competitve seasons in years, and now we have 16 British players trying out. “I firmly believe that the number of players invited back, are testament to all the hard work coaches over the UK have been putting in to improve the athletes in the game.
Commenting on the number of Olympian players invited, “ this is the second year that we have had a strong turn out at the NFLE camps, which just goes to show what a strong program we have, and with the changes we are looking to make in the off-season the numbers going to NFLE in the future can only increase as we attract better athletes”, “ I am proud of all of our players and know that the whole team will be behind them, but I am especially proud of Gary (Thomas), who has been one of most tenacious and loyal players for over a decade and deserves this accolade”.
The London Olympians are having tryouts on the 14th and 21st of November at Crystal Palace National Sports Centre. For more informationwww.londonos.co.uk or contact - Team Captain Sacha - 07946 188339
6th November - Riq Ayub and Brian Smallworth are to be inducted into the USA Minor League Football Hall of Fame. The Minor League Football Hall of Fame has currently 38 inductees and is situated in Las Vegas. There is a permanent site where visitors or anyone interested in semi-pro football history can see photos, read bios, etc. The annual induction dinner will feature European coaches Tariq Ayub, Brian Smallworth and Dr. Kurt Smeby being inducted
26th September - PA Knights won their first ever national title with a convincing 28-14 win over the London O's. Jon Wyse was voted MVP. Doncaster Mustangs, in just their second season, won the Division Two title with a 32-16 win over the Chiltern Cheetahs. Southern Sundevils won the Division One A Bowl with a devastating 32-0 win over the Bristol Aztecs.
25/26th September
Division One result - PA Knights 28-14 London O's. Report
Division One A Bowl result - Southern Sundevils 32-0 Bristol Aztecs. Report
Division Two Bowl result - Chiltern Cheetahs 16-32 Doncaster Mustangs. Report
12th September 2004
BSL Division One Semi-Finals
PA Knights 28-7 Birmingham Bulls
East Kilbride Pirates 0-53 London O's
Division One A Semi-Finals
Gateshead Senators 14-24 Bristol Aztecs
Southern Sundevils 48-3 Staffordshire Surge
Division Two Semi-Finals
Doncaster Mustangs 13-12 Dundee Hurricanes
Chiltern Cheetahs 34-6 Sussex Thunder
9th September - This Sunday 12th September sees Chiltern Cheetahs American Football Club host the British Senior League Southern championship at Amersham And Chiltern Rugby Club, Kick-off 3pm. The Cheetahs who have not lost a game this year will face Sussex Thunder who have only lost two games this year both to the Cheetahs, with the games being a close results 13 - 7 & 14 - 6. The winners of this game will advance to the National Final on 26th September (kick-off 12.00) at the Don Valley Stadium, Sheffield against the Northern Champions which will be either Doncaster Mustangs or Dundee Hurricanes. More information on the Cheetahs can be obtained from www.chilterncheetahs.com of by contacting either Giles Stevenson 01494 728371 or Richard Barnes 07710 249300.
28th August - Great Britain won promotion to Pool A of the European Championship, with a fantastic 18-17 victory over France. Trailing 7-0, and then having star QB Adam Lane knocked out of the game on a play that resulted in a personal foul, stand-in QB Pete Rogers passed for 2 TD's to Mark Squire and Tam Bryne. Rogers tied the scores at 7-7 on a pass to Squire, but with 2.45 left in the 3rd quarter, France took a 14-7 lead. With just over 10 minutes left in the match, Rogers passed for his 2nd TD of the game (to Tam Bryne), and a courageous call by Coach Riq Ayub to go for the 2 PAT was successful when Steve Coles burst over the line to give GB a 15-14 lead. France kicked a 25 yard field-goal with 3.30 mins left to lead 17-15, but GB were not to be denied as Pete Rogers kicked a 30 yard field goal with 38 seconds remaining in the game to give the Lions the Pool B championship.
Click here to view the tournament results and table
25th August - Great Britain continued their fine form at the European Championships with a convincing 41-0 win over Spain. Star QB Adam Lane threw for 4 TD's, and there were further rushing TD's by Anthony Perkins and Marc Saunders. GB opened the scoring with a 5 yard pass to Mark Cohen, and the lead was extended by Perkins first TD for his country. GB went into half-time leading 27-0 on the back of Lane's 35 yard pass to Cohen, and Junior Price's 36 yard catch from Lane. In the 3rd quarter, the result was put beyond doubt with Lane's 55 yard pass to Mark Squire, and then Marc Saunders's 1 yard run. Pete Rogers kicked 5 PAT's out of 6. GB now go on to face hosts France in their final game, with the winner qualifying for the elite Pool A competition in 2005.
23rd August - In the first ever meeting between the sides, Great Britain QB Adam Lane completed 22 of 32 for 253 yards and 3TDs to inspire the Lions from a 14-10 half-time deficit to win their opening Euro 2004 Group B clash 24-21. GB scored in the first quarter on Lane's pass to Junior Price, and then Pete Rogers field goal closed the gap just before half-time. Russia jumped out to a 21-10 lead in the 3rd quarter before Lane's 4th quarter heroics. Lane passed for 2 TD's to East Kilbride's WR Mark Squire (the 2nd one inside the 2 minute warning). Veteran Mark Cohen caught the 2 PAT to give GB a narrow lead which they held onto. GB move onto face Spain on Wednesday afternoon.
17th August - GB Lions squad announced for the Euro 2004 B group in Amiens. More....
8th August - PA Knights completed the double over the London O's on Sunday with a 13-2 victory to clinch the BSL Division One Southern Conference. Both teams advance to the playoffs - Senior Kitted
23rd May 2004 - PA Knights progressed to the semi-finals of the EFAF Cup also with a 21-13 win over the Zurich Renegades. They meet the Ukrainian side, Donetsk Scythians next.
22nd May 2004 - London O's become first British club in 5 years to win abroad with 38-6 win in Denmark against the Roskilde Kings. They now meet Tyrolean Raiders in Austria in 2 weeks time in the semi-finals.
20th May 2004 - Kent Exiles launch new website
The Kent Exiles have launched their new website this week, WWW.KENTEXILES.CO.UK
"We felt it was about time we upgraded our old site" commented club spokesman Kieron Hyams, "although it was not bad we wanted to continue the hard work that's taken place on the field to take the clubs to the next level. We wanted to bring ourselves up into the same category as other club in terms of professionalism and approachability".
WWW.KENTEXILES.CO.UK retains all off the features of the old site, but greatly improves them as well as adding new features such as the Exiles very own forum, a photo gallery, a photographic roster and the soon to be launched club merchandise page.
The Exiles believe their history section to be the most comprehensive club history available anywhere in the UK, with even more photos and match reports to be added shortly. It includes all the results and fixtures as well as stats since the clubs inception in 1989, but the club would welcome any Ex-iles to contact them with anything they may have missed.
Another feature of WWW.KENTEXILES.CO.UK is that for the first time we have been able to incorporate the sites of our partner teams the Kent Brewers of the BYAFA league and the BCAFL's expansion Greenwich Mariners to a greater degree, so now anyone finding the Exiles on the internet can also find them.
"The old site had over 40,000 hits in the last 2 and a half years, but we had a lot of comments that it was a little hard to find due to the domain name, and that some of the sections were hard to navigate" commented Hyams, "we believe we've fixed all that withWWW.KENTEXILES.CO.UK as well as bringing the club image more up to date and providing our current sponsors, and any potential sponsors, with a much improved advertising base".
10th May 2004 - Chiltern Cheetahs prepare for Southend
This Sunday 16th May, sees the Chiltern Cheetahs American football team kick-off the home fixtures with Southend Sabres the visitors to Amersham & Chiltern Rugby Club. But before the 2.30 kick-off, the Cheetahs are proud to welcome their Youth kitted team MK Pathfinders as they entertain Harrogate Hawks in their British Youth American Football Association League game with a 12.00 kick-off. Coach Edwards and his Pathfinders are looking for their first kitted win after losing their opening game to the current title holders Lancashire Wolverines. The Cheetahs on the other hand are looking to extend their winning record after their opening day win in Southend 18 - 0 and have increased their playing squad to 44 players, this being most the club as had since 1987.
More information on the both games can be obtained from the Cheetahs website www.chilterncheetahs.com or contacting Giles Stevenson (Chiltern Cheetahs) 01494 728371 or Coach Edwards (MK Pathfinders) 01908 505987
19th April 2004 - Colchester Gladiators on look out for new coach
One of the oldest names in the history of Britball is returning as the Gladiators are reforming.
An experienced and suitable qualified Head Coach is required to take the Gladiators through a number of friendlies in September/October 2004 and back into the BSL in 2005. Recruitment days are being arranged for May 2004 and the successful applicant should be available to oversee these. An exception may be made for an outstanding candidate.
Players range from experienced veterans (former Gladiators), college players and rookies.
Applicants should send a CV and covering letter by e-mail to Nick Foxley at foxley@sclucas.essex.sch.uk, or by post to him at: Sir Charles Lucas Centre for Sport and Art, Hawthorn Avenue, Colchester, Essex, CO4 3JL. For further information or an informal chat, telephone him on (01206) 500917.
Closing date 24th April 2004.
11th April 2004 - Sabres 0-18 Chiltern Cheetahs
For a full match report click here
4th April 2004 - O's record is finally broken
Personal Assurance Knights 14 - 12 London O's
For a full match report click here
2nd April 2004 - The Colchester Gladiators American Football Club are reforming with a view to join the BSL in 2005.
After the success of their 20th Anniversary Reunion game in October 2003 when the Gladiators defeated BCAFL team the Essex Blades by 50-8, the idea was raised and a series of meetings were held to discuss the viability.
After the latest meeting last month, contact was made with the league office and a number of objectives were identified that would need to be met in order for the plans to go ahead.
A new committee is being set up to co-ordinate all activities with the election of officers taking place at the next meeting on 28th March 2004. By this time, the search will have begun for a Head Coach, a two year budget agreed, a grant application underway, and a recruitment drive will be beginning.
Once the Head Coach is appointed, a rookie day will be arranged to attract new players. A number of veteran Gladiators have committed to play for the reformed team, along with a number of BCAFL players and other rookies. The Gladiators will be looking to sign other interested players at the trial as they look to reach their target number of players.
The Gladiators intend to train throughout the summer months before arranging a number of friendlies in October, and submitting their league application in November for acceptance into the league for 2005.
The Gladiators are already in talks with Wivenhoe Town FC about using their Broad Lane ground as their home venue after the success of the reunion game last year which attracted a crowd of approximately 800.
TV presenter Dermot O'Leary played for the Gladiators in 2003
Club spokesman Nick Foxley was enthusiastic about the possibility of reforming. He said, “Although it’s eight years since the Gladiators last played a competitive game, there is still a lot of interest in American Football in the area and the Gladiators name has not been forgotten. We hope to reap the benefits of the publicity the reunion game achieved last year, and with sound planning, are confident that we can achieve all the league’s requirements of a new team and establish a long term plan to ensure the team will continue playing for many years to come.”
Applications for the position of Head Coach are now being accepted, with applicants advised to e-mail their interest to Nick Foxley at foxley@sclucas.essex.sch.uk or log on to the Gladiators’ website at www.eteamz.com/sites/colchestergladiators for further information.
1st February 2004 - Team in Channel Islands needs help
A team is to be tried to be created in Jersey. Contact Ross at silence_yu_face@hotmail.com for more info. There has only been 2 sides that have ever played in the Channel Isles - the Jersey Senates and the Guernsey Gladiators.
30th January 2004 - UK players selected for NFL Europe Camp, Tampa February 23-27
Name, Position, Age, Club
Jeff Nicolson, Tight end, 23, Claymores
Scott McCready, Receiver, 26, Claymores
Stuart Hare, Linebacker, 23, Claymores
Robert Flickinger, Def. End, 32, Claymores
Rob Hart, Kicker, 29, Claymores
Scott Couper, Receiver, 34, Claymores
Jens Pettersson, Linebacker, 27, Claymores
James Brazier, Receiver, 24, Claymores
Andrew Boyle, Receiver, 22, London Os
Gavin Collins, Off. Line, 30, London Os
Aden Durde, Linebacker, 24, London Os
Warren Keen, Running Back, 27, London Os
Onoh Ozongwu, Def. Back, 22, London Os
Matthue Barrett, Off. Line, 28, Birmingham Bulls
Alan Blake, Off. Line, 20, UWA Aberystwyth
Peter Fields, Off. Line, 22, PA Knights
19th January 2004 - Guest coaches help of Kent
Last Sunday saw the Kent Exiles return to training for their bid to become the BSL division 2 champions in 2004, the day was made all the more special by the attendance of four special guests on the day, bought in by Exiles Head Coach
Phil Wood to not only improve the ability of his players, but also their mental preparation.
The Exiles guests were former Great Britain internationals Bob Dean, Mike Taylor, Darran Cooper and Leroy Innes, and along with the Exiles current coaching staff they put the team through their paces. "I think it's fair to say we had a good days training today" commented Exiles head coach Wood, "bringing in guys like this who have played at the top level in this country and Europe really shows what can be achieved when you train hard, and have the dedication to go all the way. I know my guys all learnt a lot today, and we aim to use this as a springboard for our season going forward.
The Exiles are also especially pleased as all four thoroughly enjoyed their day with the Exiles, and have committed to helping the club on a regular basis going forward, either in a guest capacity or in a fulltime coaching role.
The Exiles now continue their training every Sunday at their home ground in Orpington on the Kent/South London borders, full details of both senior and youth squads can be found at www.eteamz.com/kentexafc and new or experienced players are always welcome. The club are especially keen to recruit more members for the youth section who aim to compete in the BYAFA league for the first time this season.
The photo shows (l-r) Bob Dean, Mike Taylor, Phil Wood, Darran Cooper, Leroy Innes
Photo courtesy of Kent Exiles
13th January 2004 - Chiltern Cheetahs back in training
Chiltern Cheetahs American Football Club started their 2004 season preparations on Sunday with well turned out training session at Amersham & Chiltern Rugby Club. Head coach Len Scott introduced 4 new coaches for this upcoming season, with Pat Joseph as the Defensive Coach, Eddie Wells Lineman Coach, Richard Barnes Special Teams Coach and Rob Suttling as Wide Receivers Coach.
The Cheetahs will be playing Division Two, South East Conference of the British Senior League and will play both home and away fixtures against Essex Spartans, Kent Exiles, Maidstone Pumas, Sabres and Sussex Thunder, with the league fixtures due to start on 4th April 2004.
Training will be taking place every Sunday from 1pm at Amersham & Chiltern Rugby Club, Weedon Lane, Amersham, all are welcome to take part, even if you have no experience.
For further information and direction to training can be found on the Club’s website www.chilterncheetahs.com or by telephoning Richard Barnes 07710 249300 or Giles Stevenson 01494 728371.
9th January 2004 - Chiltern Cheetahs back in training
The Chiltern Cheetahs return to training this Sunday 11th January 2004 at Amersham & Chiltern Rugby Club, Weedon lane, Amersham from 1pm in a bid to become the British Senior league Division two champions.
Len Scott, in his 8th season as Head Coach of the Cheetahs is looking to build on the successes of 2003, with training open to all players and rookies.
For more information contact Richard Barnes 07710 249300, Giles Stevenson 01494 728371 or on the Club’s website www.chilterncheetahs.com
6th January 2004 - Sussex Thunder rookie day
Senior Team
The Sussex Thunder will hold a Rookie Day on the 18th January. It will be at Brighton Rugby Club at 10:00 am for a 10:30 am start. Coach Smart has requested that everyone who played last year and everyone who has only just joined the club attend on this day. All new players from 11-70 are very welcome to come along and try out. You will need to bring sweats, cleats (boots), I.D if you have not already produced any (E.G Driving Licence) and plenty of enthusiasm. We are still looking for more players in a big way so if you have any interest in playing then come along.
The Senior Thunder team will compete in this years Division Two, South East Conference. They will play both home and away games against the Chiltern Cheetahs, the Essex Spartans, the Kent Exiles, the Maidstone Pumas and the Southend Sabres.
In Division Two the top two teams in each conference will progress to an 8 team playoff competition which will be regionalised. At the end of the 2004 season the 4th placed teams in Division One will switch with the top placed team in 1A and the 4th placed 1A teams will switch with the Division 2 Championship Game participants.
Youth Team
The Sussex Thunder Youth will be preparing for a season within the British Youth American Football Association. Training will start on Jan 18th with a Rookie (try the game) day. Everyone at every level of experience is very welcome to come down and give it a go. Age groups for the Youth team are 15-19.
The Thunder Youth Team are also looking for a Head Coach this season. If anyone is interested in the position please come down or E-Mail Coach Smart at the address below.
Junior Team
The Sussex Thunder Junior’s will be preparing for a season within the British Youth American Football Association. Training will start on Jan 18th with a Rookie (try the game) day. Everyone at every level of experience is very welcome to come down and give it a go. Age groups for the junior team are 11-15 and this will be non-contact flag football.
For information on the Rookie day please e-mail: headcoach@sussex-thunder.co.uk
Junior Flag Football
There will also be a Junior Flag Football day on the 24th January at Brighton Rugby Club. The day will start at 11am with a flag football clinic. This will be followed by a tournament at 12pm. Beginners and novices are very welcome plus there will be refreshments available with fully qualified coaches and refs there on the day. This will be the first of a series of tournaments countywide for 2004, which are run by the Sussex Gridiron Development Association along with the Sussex Thunder. For more information please e-mail: southcoastgridiron@yahoo.com