By Andrew Gambrill, Head Coach, Coventry Jets Flag
Coventry Jets’ Senior Flag team got their season off to a slow start as their preparations for the year’s first tournament were hampered by several late withdrawals. Standouts Shadrach McCook, Shaun Rice and Ant Martin have elected, with the blessing of Head Coach Andrew Gambrill, to concentrate on their career with the Jets in kitted football. Victims of their own success, they were unable to effectively contribute to both teams. Added to that was the on/off nature of last years Youth Rookie and Players Player of the Year, Tikisha McCook. Having only received confirmation from the league 48 hours before travelling up to Woodham, Shadrach’s younger sister was unable to properly prepare for her Senior debut.
The Jets were over powered by the Woodham Warriors in the season opener as they fell to a lop-sided 50-0 defeat, the heaviest in the clubs three year history. Overwhelmed by their hosts in every aspect of the game, Coventry’s under strength squad struggled to find their feet after the long road trip to Durham.
Another heavy defeat looked to be on the cards in the second game as the Jets fell behind early against the Leicester Eagles. Captain Adam Grindrod’s touchdown pass to Rob Coleman was the only time the Jets troubled the scoreboard operator in a first half that ended with the Jets two scores adrift. Although the short passing game was springing receivers open, opportunities were missed, so, when coach Gambrill found the match ups he liked, the long ball to Steve Timmins proved effective with Timmins hauling in two deep passes.
With the Eagles growing wary of the threat Timmins posed and the rest of the Jets sensing a comeback Grindrod hit Gemma Eaton with a clutch sideline grab and the Jets pulled themselves to within 2 points of sending the game in to overtime. However, the brave fight back was thwarted with the Eagles breaking up the pass in the end zone on the final play of the game for a nervy 27-25 victory.
Speaking after the game, Coach Gambrill, clearly disappointed but resolute said “for sure the losses are a hammer blow, but they do not define our season. Like every defensive back that gets burnt or quarterback that throws a pick, we have to have a short memory. Learn from the mistakes but not dwell on them”.
The Jets now travel to London on May 30th for two critical games against the hosting Rebels and the Zombie Horde of Basingstoke, knowing that a victory in each game is essential to revive their playoff hopes. For more information on the Coventry Jets please visit their website www.coventryjets.co.uk or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets.
Coventry Jets’ Senior Flag team got their season off to a slow start as their preparations for the year’s first tournament were hampered by several late withdrawals. Standouts Shadrach McCook, Shaun Rice and Ant Martin have elected, with the blessing of Head Coach Andrew Gambrill, to concentrate on their career with the Jets in kitted football. Victims of their own success, they were unable to effectively contribute to both teams. Added to that was the on/off nature of last years Youth Rookie and Players Player of the Year, Tikisha McCook. Having only received confirmation from the league 48 hours before travelling up to Woodham, Shadrach’s younger sister was unable to properly prepare for her Senior debut.
The Jets were over powered by the Woodham Warriors in the season opener as they fell to a lop-sided 50-0 defeat, the heaviest in the clubs three year history. Overwhelmed by their hosts in every aspect of the game, Coventry’s under strength squad struggled to find their feet after the long road trip to Durham.
Another heavy defeat looked to be on the cards in the second game as the Jets fell behind early against the Leicester Eagles. Captain Adam Grindrod’s touchdown pass to Rob Coleman was the only time the Jets troubled the scoreboard operator in a first half that ended with the Jets two scores adrift. Although the short passing game was springing receivers open, opportunities were missed, so, when coach Gambrill found the match ups he liked, the long ball to Steve Timmins proved effective with Timmins hauling in two deep passes.
With the Eagles growing wary of the threat Timmins posed and the rest of the Jets sensing a comeback Grindrod hit Gemma Eaton with a clutch sideline grab and the Jets pulled themselves to within 2 points of sending the game in to overtime. However, the brave fight back was thwarted with the Eagles breaking up the pass in the end zone on the final play of the game for a nervy 27-25 victory.
Speaking after the game, Coach Gambrill, clearly disappointed but resolute said “for sure the losses are a hammer blow, but they do not define our season. Like every defensive back that gets burnt or quarterback that throws a pick, we have to have a short memory. Learn from the mistakes but not dwell on them”.
The Jets now travel to London on May 30th for two critical games against the hosting Rebels and the Zombie Horde of Basingstoke, knowing that a victory in each game is essential to revive their playoff hopes. For more information on the Coventry Jets please visit their website www.coventryjets.co.uk or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets.
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Backbreaker
Latest Results:
Revolution Win Part 1 of Double Header
By Adam Etheridge, Secretary, Coventry Jets AFC
June the 25th will see the release of NaturalMotion Games’ highly anticipated American Football video game Backbreaker. With the assistance of the Coventry Jets, Backbreaker is set to become more than merely a rival for EA Sports’ hugely successful Madden franchise. Using NaturalMotion’s euphoria Engine to deliver high quality, hard-hitting, true-to-life action, Backbreaker is able to create truly unique game moments, which never happened before, and will never happen again - just like real life. With no more canned animation this might just be the biggest revolution in games since the introduction of 3D graphics.
Backbreaker for Xbox 360™ and PLAYSTATION®3 is a new, on-field football experience from the minute players pick up the controller. Boasting realistic, physics-based AI with an endless variety of unique sacks and tackles, Backbreaker is the first truly live sports game. With crisp, high-definition graphics and a third-person camera angle that follows the perspective of the ball handler, Backbreaker puts players onto the field in the heart of the action.
“It was great to get players from the Coventry Jets involved in the development of Backbreaker”, said Todd Gibbs, Head of Games at NaturalMotion. “Not only did they assist us with their highly detailed knowledge of the sport, but their professionalism and of course, athleticism, left us with hours of high quality motion capture footage that the game simply could not have been made without.” The euphoria Engine allows Backbreaker to provide Dynamic Motion Synthesis live onto Playstation 3 and Xbox 360.
The Jets became involved in the development stage back in late 2008 with linebacker Will White and Britbowl MVP winning quarterback Dax Michelena providing authentic American voices within the game. Lineman, Andrew Smith was invited to help with motion capture for the game’s realistic graphics that have helped set it apart from the dozens of other American Football titles that have fallen by the wayside. In 2009 Jets’ linebacker Andrew McKenzie took part in a focus group before eventually landing a job as a Junior Designer.
Already available in Europe and the United States, Backbreaker, which will be available in the UK exclusively at GAME, is proving a real hit with Gridiron fans. The “Tackle Alley” mini game that was released as an iPhone application last year was a number one download from iTunes giving gamers a sneak peek at what to expect from the full title.
You can see McKenzie, Smith and White in action for the Jets as they face the London Cobras in their next game at the Butts Park Arena on the 3rd of July. The action gets underway at 18:00 and entry prices are £5 for adults, £2 for Under 16s with a family ticket that covers 2 adults and 4 children for just £10.
For further information on the Coventry Jets visit their website www.coventryjets.co.uk or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets. For more information on Backbreaker visit the website http://www.backbreakergame.com/.
About NaturalMotion Games
NaturalMotion Games is an Oxford, England based game studio. Formed in 2006, the studio’s goal is to create a revolution in interactive entertainment by employing the animation technology created by its parent company, NaturalMotion Ltd. Already featured in world-class games Red Dead Redemption, Grand Theft Auto IV and Star Wars: The Force Unleashed, NaturalMotion’s euphoria engine can now be found powering the studio’s debut tile Backbreaker on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.
For more information please contact Rob Donald, PR & Marketing Manager at rob.donald@naturalmotion.com
June the 25th will see the release of NaturalMotion Games’ highly anticipated American Football video game Backbreaker. With the assistance of the Coventry Jets, Backbreaker is set to become more than merely a rival for EA Sports’ hugely successful Madden franchise. Using NaturalMotion’s euphoria Engine to deliver high quality, hard-hitting, true-to-life action, Backbreaker is able to create truly unique game moments, which never happened before, and will never happen again - just like real life. With no more canned animation this might just be the biggest revolution in games since the introduction of 3D graphics.
Backbreaker for Xbox 360™ and PLAYSTATION®3 is a new, on-field football experience from the minute players pick up the controller. Boasting realistic, physics-based AI with an endless variety of unique sacks and tackles, Backbreaker is the first truly live sports game. With crisp, high-definition graphics and a third-person camera angle that follows the perspective of the ball handler, Backbreaker puts players onto the field in the heart of the action.
“It was great to get players from the Coventry Jets involved in the development of Backbreaker”, said Todd Gibbs, Head of Games at NaturalMotion. “Not only did they assist us with their highly detailed knowledge of the sport, but their professionalism and of course, athleticism, left us with hours of high quality motion capture footage that the game simply could not have been made without.” The euphoria Engine allows Backbreaker to provide Dynamic Motion Synthesis live onto Playstation 3 and Xbox 360.
The Jets became involved in the development stage back in late 2008 with linebacker Will White and Britbowl MVP winning quarterback Dax Michelena providing authentic American voices within the game. Lineman, Andrew Smith was invited to help with motion capture for the game’s realistic graphics that have helped set it apart from the dozens of other American Football titles that have fallen by the wayside. In 2009 Jets’ linebacker Andrew McKenzie took part in a focus group before eventually landing a job as a Junior Designer.
Already available in Europe and the United States, Backbreaker, which will be available in the UK exclusively at GAME, is proving a real hit with Gridiron fans. The “Tackle Alley” mini game that was released as an iPhone application last year was a number one download from iTunes giving gamers a sneak peek at what to expect from the full title.
You can see McKenzie, Smith and White in action for the Jets as they face the London Cobras in their next game at the Butts Park Arena on the 3rd of July. The action gets underway at 18:00 and entry prices are £5 for adults, £2 for Under 16s with a family ticket that covers 2 adults and 4 children for just £10.
For further information on the Coventry Jets visit their website www.coventryjets.co.uk or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets. For more information on Backbreaker visit the website http://www.backbreakergame.com/.
About NaturalMotion Games
NaturalMotion Games is an Oxford, England based game studio. Formed in 2006, the studio’s goal is to create a revolution in interactive entertainment by employing the animation technology created by its parent company, NaturalMotion Ltd. Already featured in world-class games Red Dead Redemption, Grand Theft Auto IV and Star Wars: The Force Unleashed, NaturalMotion’s euphoria engine can now be found powering the studio’s debut tile Backbreaker on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.
For more information please contact Rob Donald, PR & Marketing Manager at rob.donald@naturalmotion.com
By Mike Dalton, Press & Media Officer, Shropshire Revolution AFC
Shropshire Revolution won the first of their back-to-back games against county neighbours Staffordshire Surge on Sunday, 20 June with a hard fought 25-9 victory.
Staffordshire arrived at Oakengates Athletics Stadium unbeaten in all three matches this season. Despite travelling with a small squad, with tough veteran players including Richard Large, Chris Ward and hard hitting Lee Trethaway, they were going to be a tough proposition.
The game started in sloppy fashion for both teams with five turnovers in the first quarter alone. Staffordshire were first to take advantage of an error as Defensive End Ward picked off a wayward Rob McLean pass and rumbled a full 80 yards to score. With the extra point attempt no good, Surge led 6-0. Revolution responded in the second quarter as McLean made up for his error by scrambling away from trouble and tossing a 12 yard touchdown to Rich ‘Noodles’ Mantle. The point after attempt failed leaving the teams all square at 6-6.
Late in the first half the teams traded field goals; a 24 yard effort by Shropshire’s Matt Pearce and, with Shropshire’s Defence conceding needless penalties, an 18 yard kick from the Surge’s Jonathan Wood to leave the game tied 9-9 at half time.
Into the second half Shropshire’s larger squad and the afternoon heat combined to limit Staffordshire’s momentum. First Pearce slotted over a second field goal – this time from 26 yards and then Running Back Russ Lingwood scored on a 29 yard screen pass with Pearce adding the extras to give Shropshire a 19-9 lead going into the forth quarter. Lingwood’s backfield partner Lee Kazeem completed the scoring with a four yard run and with Pearce missing the point after, Shropshire wrapped up the game 25-9.
Commenting on the game, Revolution Head Coach Dave Reid said: “It was a disappointing and scrappy start to the game from our Offense and the Defence gave away far too many penalties. However, despite going behind early, I always thought that we controlled the game and was pleased with the final result, but we need to learn to play for the full 60 minutes. Despite their squad size, Staffordshire always turn up ready to play – they have a hard core of tough, quality footballers. I’ve no doubt they will be looking for revenge in the return match and we won’t be underestimating them.”
Shropshire take on Staffordshire in the second part of the double header on Sunday, 27 June away at Longton RUFC. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
Shropshire Revolution won the first of their back-to-back games against county neighbours Staffordshire Surge on Sunday, 20 June with a hard fought 25-9 victory.
Staffordshire arrived at Oakengates Athletics Stadium unbeaten in all three matches this season. Despite travelling with a small squad, with tough veteran players including Richard Large, Chris Ward and hard hitting Lee Trethaway, they were going to be a tough proposition.
The game started in sloppy fashion for both teams with five turnovers in the first quarter alone. Staffordshire were first to take advantage of an error as Defensive End Ward picked off a wayward Rob McLean pass and rumbled a full 80 yards to score. With the extra point attempt no good, Surge led 6-0. Revolution responded in the second quarter as McLean made up for his error by scrambling away from trouble and tossing a 12 yard touchdown to Rich ‘Noodles’ Mantle. The point after attempt failed leaving the teams all square at 6-6.
Late in the first half the teams traded field goals; a 24 yard effort by Shropshire’s Matt Pearce and, with Shropshire’s Defence conceding needless penalties, an 18 yard kick from the Surge’s Jonathan Wood to leave the game tied 9-9 at half time.
Into the second half Shropshire’s larger squad and the afternoon heat combined to limit Staffordshire’s momentum. First Pearce slotted over a second field goal – this time from 26 yards and then Running Back Russ Lingwood scored on a 29 yard screen pass with Pearce adding the extras to give Shropshire a 19-9 lead going into the forth quarter. Lingwood’s backfield partner Lee Kazeem completed the scoring with a four yard run and with Pearce missing the point after, Shropshire wrapped up the game 25-9.
Commenting on the game, Revolution Head Coach Dave Reid said: “It was a disappointing and scrappy start to the game from our Offense and the Defence gave away far too many penalties. However, despite going behind early, I always thought that we controlled the game and was pleased with the final result, but we need to learn to play for the full 60 minutes. Despite their squad size, Staffordshire always turn up ready to play – they have a hard core of tough, quality footballers. I’ve no doubt they will be looking for revenge in the return match and we won’t be underestimating them.”
Shropshire take on Staffordshire in the second part of the double header on Sunday, 27 June away at Longton RUFC. Kick off is at 2.30pm.
The Revettes
Shropshire Revolution Cheerleaders
More information on The Revettes
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Top Left: 22 Matt Pearce kicking a field goal.
Top Right: 24 Lee Kazeem
Bottom Left: 9 Rich Mantle
Bottom Right: 13 Russ Lingwood
Top Right: 24 Lee Kazeem
Bottom Left: 9 Rich Mantle
Bottom Right: 13 Russ Lingwood
Pirates Announce New Home Ground for 2010
By Amanda McDonald, Media & Marketing Manager, East Kilbride Pirates
The East Kilbride Pirates are delighted to announce their home ground for the 2010 British American Football season will be Whitecraigs Rugby Club, in Newton Mearns.
Despite enjoying a great relationship with Hamilton Rugby Club, the team’s venue for 2009, the Pirates had to seek a new ground as a result of pitch improvement works, which wouldn’t be completed in time to host all of this season’s home games. A hunt then ensued to find a suitable replacement base.
“This is the team’s 25th anniversary year, so it was hugely important for us to find the right venue for this season,” said team Chairman Matthew Davies. “Whilst we’re sad to be moving on from Hamilton Rugby Club, I’m sure our new partnership with Whitecraigs will be every bit as successful, providing the Pirates with an excellent level of facilities for both fans and visiting teams alike. I’d also like to thank committee member Neale McMaster, whose hard work to find a new home ground was key to securing the deal.”
Although the East Kilbride Pirates are Scotland’s oldest American Football team, Whitecraigs has an even longer history. Formed in 1928, the Rugby Union team has a strong focus on youth development, and its senior squad has recently been promoted to Premier 3.
Facilities on offer include three pitches, two the same size as Murrayfield, as well as a club house with a players bar, lounge bar, squash courts and gym.
“We’re very pleased to welcome American Football to Whitecraigs this year” said Club Secretary Graeme Scott. “I think this will be a great arrangement for both us and the Pirates, who share the same commitment and passion to their sport as we do. I’m looking forward to seeing the guys in action on the pitch, and wish them a very successful series of home games.”
The Pirates look forward to welcoming fans to Whitecraigs on Sunday 6th June at 2.30pm, when they play their first home game of the season against Division One North Rivals the Doncaster Mustangs.y city with Defences are key to these teams game both a tough but Revolution are slightly better, as for the Offence’s Titans have the edge so this is a fascinating encounter, so many ifs and buts so sticking my neck out I am calling it a draw 21 each HA
Best of luck to everybody playing especially the lions and young lions
The East Kilbride Pirates are delighted to announce their home ground for the 2010 British American Football season will be Whitecraigs Rugby Club, in Newton Mearns.
Despite enjoying a great relationship with Hamilton Rugby Club, the team’s venue for 2009, the Pirates had to seek a new ground as a result of pitch improvement works, which wouldn’t be completed in time to host all of this season’s home games. A hunt then ensued to find a suitable replacement base.
“This is the team’s 25th anniversary year, so it was hugely important for us to find the right venue for this season,” said team Chairman Matthew Davies. “Whilst we’re sad to be moving on from Hamilton Rugby Club, I’m sure our new partnership with Whitecraigs will be every bit as successful, providing the Pirates with an excellent level of facilities for both fans and visiting teams alike. I’d also like to thank committee member Neale McMaster, whose hard work to find a new home ground was key to securing the deal.”
Although the East Kilbride Pirates are Scotland’s oldest American Football team, Whitecraigs has an even longer history. Formed in 1928, the Rugby Union team has a strong focus on youth development, and its senior squad has recently been promoted to Premier 3.
Facilities on offer include three pitches, two the same size as Murrayfield, as well as a club house with a players bar, lounge bar, squash courts and gym.
“We’re very pleased to welcome American Football to Whitecraigs this year” said Club Secretary Graeme Scott. “I think this will be a great arrangement for both us and the Pirates, who share the same commitment and passion to their sport as we do. I’m looking forward to seeing the guys in action on the pitch, and wish them a very successful series of home games.”
The Pirates look forward to welcoming fans to Whitecraigs on Sunday 6th June at 2.30pm, when they play their first home game of the season against Division One North Rivals the Doncaster Mustangs.y city with Defences are key to these teams game both a tough but Revolution are slightly better, as for the Offence’s Titans have the edge so this is a fascinating encounter, so many ifs and buts so sticking my neck out I am calling it a draw 21 each HA
Best of luck to everybody playing especially the lions and young lions
Jets Cooke up A Storm
By Adam Etheridge, Secretary, Coventry Jets AFC
Photographs courtesy of Scott Moynihan
With the Jets’ offensive revamp complete, attention has turned to the defensive side of the ball. Chris Cooke has transferred from the Cambridgeshire Cats to beef up the defensive line. The tackle has already won five Britbowl medals and is looking to win a sixth with the Jets “I want to win another National Title and hopefully have one last crack at Europe” said the 48 year old Prison Officer upon signing.
“I’m surprised at how friendly and welcoming everyone has been, you hear a lot about the Jets and build up an image of the club and I’m glad to say that most of what I’ve heard hasn’t been true. It’s well organised here, the coaching staff is very knowledgeable and get their message across well. Training is well attended and, whilst it’s hard work, it’s also a lot of fun. The one thing that is true about this club is that we want to win”.
The Jets will be Cooke’s twelfth club in a career that has been highlighted by spells with the Great Britain Spartans and a trial with the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers. He arrives in Coventry alongside his nephew Louis who has also transferred in from his hometown Cats. The younger Cooke plays anywhere in the defensive backfield where he has earned the respect of his peers, winning the Players Player of the Year award in 2009 after racking up an impressive 90 tackles.
A former Rookie of the Year, Louis received an invite to represent an International All-Stars team in Florida last season alongside his uncle. The physical 22 year old plays with aggression and speed, his 40 yard sprint time of 4.48 wowed the Jets coaching staff at their recent combine. “Louis has speed to burn” commented Head Coach Gerry McManus “he’s going to make a lot of plays for us this year. I’m sure the fans will love what he brings to the table with his style of play”.
“It was difficult to leave the Cats” acknowledged the 22 year old carpenter “they’re the only team that I’d ever played for and it’s the town where I was born. I’ve come here to win. I’m enjoying training, there’s a great group here and everyone is focused on the same thing, winning the Premier Division. I’m excited to be part of that and I believe that we can do it”.
You can see how the Cookes fare on their debut as the Jets kick off their season against the Bristol Aztecs at the Butts Park Arena on Saturday the 22nd of May. The game will be preceded by the Jets Youth facing the Birmingham Bulls. The action gets underway at 11:00 and entry prices are £5 for adults, £2 for Under 16s with a family ticket that covers 2 adults and 4 children for just £10. For further information on the Coventry Jets visit their website www.coventryjets.co.uk or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets.
Photographs courtesy of Scott Moynihan
With the Jets’ offensive revamp complete, attention has turned to the defensive side of the ball. Chris Cooke has transferred from the Cambridgeshire Cats to beef up the defensive line. The tackle has already won five Britbowl medals and is looking to win a sixth with the Jets “I want to win another National Title and hopefully have one last crack at Europe” said the 48 year old Prison Officer upon signing.
“I’m surprised at how friendly and welcoming everyone has been, you hear a lot about the Jets and build up an image of the club and I’m glad to say that most of what I’ve heard hasn’t been true. It’s well organised here, the coaching staff is very knowledgeable and get their message across well. Training is well attended and, whilst it’s hard work, it’s also a lot of fun. The one thing that is true about this club is that we want to win”.
The Jets will be Cooke’s twelfth club in a career that has been highlighted by spells with the Great Britain Spartans and a trial with the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers. He arrives in Coventry alongside his nephew Louis who has also transferred in from his hometown Cats. The younger Cooke plays anywhere in the defensive backfield where he has earned the respect of his peers, winning the Players Player of the Year award in 2009 after racking up an impressive 90 tackles.
A former Rookie of the Year, Louis received an invite to represent an International All-Stars team in Florida last season alongside his uncle. The physical 22 year old plays with aggression and speed, his 40 yard sprint time of 4.48 wowed the Jets coaching staff at their recent combine. “Louis has speed to burn” commented Head Coach Gerry McManus “he’s going to make a lot of plays for us this year. I’m sure the fans will love what he brings to the table with his style of play”.
“It was difficult to leave the Cats” acknowledged the 22 year old carpenter “they’re the only team that I’d ever played for and it’s the town where I was born. I’ve come here to win. I’m enjoying training, there’s a great group here and everyone is focused on the same thing, winning the Premier Division. I’m excited to be part of that and I believe that we can do it”.
You can see how the Cookes fare on their debut as the Jets kick off their season against the Bristol Aztecs at the Butts Park Arena on Saturday the 22nd of May. The game will be preceded by the Jets Youth facing the Birmingham Bulls. The action gets underway at 11:00 and entry prices are £5 for adults, £2 for Under 16s with a family ticket that covers 2 adults and 4 children for just £10. For further information on the Coventry Jets visit their website www.coventryjets.co.uk or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets.
Louis Cooke
Christopher Cooke
Pirates Smash Weight Lift Target
By Amanda McDonald,Media & Marketing Manager, East Kilbride Pirates
Photographs courtesy of Unnamed
The East Kilbride Pirates love a challenge – and that’s exactly what lay ahead of 22 members of the team when they attempted to lift 600 tonnes and raise some money for the team in the process.
The fundraising event, which took place on Saturday 1 May at Venice Physique in Glasgow, and saw players from Scotland's number one American Football team undertake a series of different weightlifting exercises to complete the task during a five hour period.
The team members were able to select from five different weightlifting exercises – leg press, shoulder press, squat, deadlift and bench press – and each individual lift was counted and then added to a cumulative total.
After some epic individual performances, and a little bit of help from a few brave friends and committee members, the players managed to smash through the 600 tonne mark four and a half hours in.
The team’s new Defensive Tackle, Jamie Charles, set the bar for the rest of the Pirates, lifting an incredible 103 tonnes on his own.
“This event was another big win for the Pirates. Not only did we smash the target we set, but we raised some badly needed money to put towards our 2010 season costs.” said team Chairman Matthew Davies. “Thanks go to all the people who took part and to those who sponsored us, as well as to Venice Physique for kindly hosting the event, and to our own sponsorship manager Al Wilson, who organised the challenge.”
You can find out more about the Pirates at www.piratesfootball.co.uk
Photographs courtesy of Unnamed
The East Kilbride Pirates love a challenge – and that’s exactly what lay ahead of 22 members of the team when they attempted to lift 600 tonnes and raise some money for the team in the process.
The fundraising event, which took place on Saturday 1 May at Venice Physique in Glasgow, and saw players from Scotland's number one American Football team undertake a series of different weightlifting exercises to complete the task during a five hour period.
The team members were able to select from five different weightlifting exercises – leg press, shoulder press, squat, deadlift and bench press – and each individual lift was counted and then added to a cumulative total.
After some epic individual performances, and a little bit of help from a few brave friends and committee members, the players managed to smash through the 600 tonne mark four and a half hours in.
The team’s new Defensive Tackle, Jamie Charles, set the bar for the rest of the Pirates, lifting an incredible 103 tonnes on his own.
“This event was another big win for the Pirates. Not only did we smash the target we set, but we raised some badly needed money to put towards our 2010 season costs.” said team Chairman Matthew Davies. “Thanks go to all the people who took part and to those who sponsored us, as well as to Venice Physique for kindly hosting the event, and to our own sponsorship manager Al Wilson, who organised the challenge.”
You can find out more about the Pirates at www.piratesfootball.co.uk
Dervan Alleyne Signs for the Jets
By Adam Etheridge, Secretary, Coventry Jets AFC
Photographs courtesy of Scott Moynihan Images
The Coventry Jets have announced their latest signing after completing the transfer of Peterboro’ Saxons’ wide receiver Dervan Alleyne. The Leicester native has some big shoes to fill as the Jets look to plug the void left by the retirement of star player Mark Cohen. Alleyne arrives with a big reputation after scooping the Saxons’ MVP award in his only season with the East Midlands club.
Prior to his stint with the Saxons Alleyne spent three years plying his trade with the Nottingham Caesars ending each term leading the team in points scored and gaining over 1000 all purpose yards. The former Nottingham Forest youth player took to American Football with consummate ease and has now stepped up to play in the top flight.
“It doesn’t matter to me about what’s happened in the past” stated the ambitious 28 year old “I want to join a team that are fighting to be the best, I am looking forward to hopefully winning the big one this year with the Jets and learning and developing my game even further from those around me.
I’m really happy to join the Jets, they’ve lived up to my expectations and are a well organised team with a winning mentality. They’ve been very welcoming to me and have helped me settle in quickly. It was very difficult for me to leave the Saxons as they are like a family at the club. You have support all the way from the top to the bottom. It was truly an honour to kit up for them in what was a difficult season and they know I mean every word of that”.
“It’s great to attract a player of Dervan’s quality” commented General Manager Gerry McManus. “He fits in perfectly with what we’re trying to do, he’s young and ambitious and has the drive and determination to match our own. He gives us blazing speed opposite Jeremy Simms and the pair will stretch our opponents down the field”.
You can see how Alleyne and his new team-mate’s fare as the Jets kick off their season against the Bristol Aztecs at the Butts Park Arena on Saturday the 22nd of May. The game will be preceded by the Jets Youth facing the Birmingham Bulls. The action gets underway at 11:00 and entry prices are £5 for adults, £2 for Under 16s with a family ticket that covers 2 adults and 4 children for just £10. For further information on the Coventry Jets visit their website www.coventryjets.co.uk or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets.
Photographs courtesy of Scott Moynihan Images
The Coventry Jets have announced their latest signing after completing the transfer of Peterboro’ Saxons’ wide receiver Dervan Alleyne. The Leicester native has some big shoes to fill as the Jets look to plug the void left by the retirement of star player Mark Cohen. Alleyne arrives with a big reputation after scooping the Saxons’ MVP award in his only season with the East Midlands club.
Prior to his stint with the Saxons Alleyne spent three years plying his trade with the Nottingham Caesars ending each term leading the team in points scored and gaining over 1000 all purpose yards. The former Nottingham Forest youth player took to American Football with consummate ease and has now stepped up to play in the top flight.
“It doesn’t matter to me about what’s happened in the past” stated the ambitious 28 year old “I want to join a team that are fighting to be the best, I am looking forward to hopefully winning the big one this year with the Jets and learning and developing my game even further from those around me.
I’m really happy to join the Jets, they’ve lived up to my expectations and are a well organised team with a winning mentality. They’ve been very welcoming to me and have helped me settle in quickly. It was very difficult for me to leave the Saxons as they are like a family at the club. You have support all the way from the top to the bottom. It was truly an honour to kit up for them in what was a difficult season and they know I mean every word of that”.
“It’s great to attract a player of Dervan’s quality” commented General Manager Gerry McManus. “He fits in perfectly with what we’re trying to do, he’s young and ambitious and has the drive and determination to match our own. He gives us blazing speed opposite Jeremy Simms and the pair will stretch our opponents down the field”.
You can see how Alleyne and his new team-mate’s fare as the Jets kick off their season against the Bristol Aztecs at the Butts Park Arena on Saturday the 22nd of May. The game will be preceded by the Jets Youth facing the Birmingham Bulls. The action gets underway at 11:00 and entry prices are £5 for adults, £2 for Under 16s with a family ticket that covers 2 adults and 4 children for just £10. For further information on the Coventry Jets visit their website www.coventryjets.co.uk or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets.
Dervan Alleyne
Jets Ready to Explode with Dynamite
By Adam Etheridge, Secretary, Coventry Jets AFC
The Coventry Jets have added to their already incredible gameday experience by securing the services of the Coventry Dynamite Cheerleaders. The Dynamite, celebrating a successful ‘Midland Classic’ in which 8 out of their 15 routines took first place, will be replacing the Crew who leave the Jets after four years as their dance squad. More athletic and dynamic the Dynamite are more reminiscent of a College Cheer Squad than NFL style cheerleaders and Jets’ Secretary Adam Etheridge was delighted to have them on board “I’ve watched a handful of their routines and the athleticism is breathtaking. They’ll have no trouble keeping the spectators entertained during timeouts”.
Made up of both male and female cheerleaders, the Dynamite range from 5 to 26 years old and are busy preparing for the British Cheerleading Association Internationals which will be held at the Ricoh in July this year. Dynamite Manager Mandy Biggs is looking forward to the squads American Football debut “I’m looking forward to supporting the Jets at the Butts, it will be a great day out for all of the spectators. There’s a family friendly atmosphere around the club and we’re delighted to be part of it”.
Much like the Jets, the Dynamite already possess a large squad but they are also constantly on the lookout for new recruits. Their recent mid-season tryout saw no less than 60 hopefuls perform over two days. “Working with a team that’s known throughout Europe as a high quality organisation will hopefully benefit us greatly in terms of exposure. Cheerleading is a very competitive sport and with constantly rising costs we’re always looking for sponsorship, this is a tremendous opportunity to showcase the talent that we have and the work that we’re doing with youngsters within Coventry and Warwickshire”.
Founded in 2004 by Katie Biggs and Sophie Osmond, who still coach with the squad now, the Dynamite began with just six members but have grown to well over a hundred in a short space of time. Whilst Katie and Sophie’s roots are within the dance aspect of cheerleading, boasting almost a decade of experience each including competing at European level, the addition of Katie’s sister, Sarah Biggs, opened up the avenue of stunt performance. Sarah also holds an impressive CV including representing the UK in the 2005 World Championships.
The Dynamite will be wowing the Jets’ faithful in 2010 with their debut coming at the first senior team game of the season. The Britbowl XXIII runners-up will begin their campaign against the Bristol Aztecs at the Butts Park Arena on Saturday the 22nd of May (kick off at 16:00). The game will be preceded by the Jets Youth facing the Birmingham Bulls (kick off at 11:00).
Entry prices are £5 for adults, £2 for Under 16s with a family ticket that covers 2 adults and 4 children for just £10. For further information on the Coventry Jets visit their website www.coventryjets.co.uk or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets. More details on the Coventry Dynamite can be found on their website www.coventrydynamitecheerleaders.co.uk.
The Coventry Jets have added to their already incredible gameday experience by securing the services of the Coventry Dynamite Cheerleaders. The Dynamite, celebrating a successful ‘Midland Classic’ in which 8 out of their 15 routines took first place, will be replacing the Crew who leave the Jets after four years as their dance squad. More athletic and dynamic the Dynamite are more reminiscent of a College Cheer Squad than NFL style cheerleaders and Jets’ Secretary Adam Etheridge was delighted to have them on board “I’ve watched a handful of their routines and the athleticism is breathtaking. They’ll have no trouble keeping the spectators entertained during timeouts”.
Made up of both male and female cheerleaders, the Dynamite range from 5 to 26 years old and are busy preparing for the British Cheerleading Association Internationals which will be held at the Ricoh in July this year. Dynamite Manager Mandy Biggs is looking forward to the squads American Football debut “I’m looking forward to supporting the Jets at the Butts, it will be a great day out for all of the spectators. There’s a family friendly atmosphere around the club and we’re delighted to be part of it”.
Much like the Jets, the Dynamite already possess a large squad but they are also constantly on the lookout for new recruits. Their recent mid-season tryout saw no less than 60 hopefuls perform over two days. “Working with a team that’s known throughout Europe as a high quality organisation will hopefully benefit us greatly in terms of exposure. Cheerleading is a very competitive sport and with constantly rising costs we’re always looking for sponsorship, this is a tremendous opportunity to showcase the talent that we have and the work that we’re doing with youngsters within Coventry and Warwickshire”.
Founded in 2004 by Katie Biggs and Sophie Osmond, who still coach with the squad now, the Dynamite began with just six members but have grown to well over a hundred in a short space of time. Whilst Katie and Sophie’s roots are within the dance aspect of cheerleading, boasting almost a decade of experience each including competing at European level, the addition of Katie’s sister, Sarah Biggs, opened up the avenue of stunt performance. Sarah also holds an impressive CV including representing the UK in the 2005 World Championships.
The Dynamite will be wowing the Jets’ faithful in 2010 with their debut coming at the first senior team game of the season. The Britbowl XXIII runners-up will begin their campaign against the Bristol Aztecs at the Butts Park Arena on Saturday the 22nd of May (kick off at 16:00). The game will be preceded by the Jets Youth facing the Birmingham Bulls (kick off at 11:00).
Entry prices are £5 for adults, £2 for Under 16s with a family ticket that covers 2 adults and 4 children for just £10. For further information on the Coventry Jets visit their website www.coventryjets.co.uk or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets. More details on the Coventry Dynamite can be found on their website www.coventrydynamitecheerleaders.co.uk.
Sat Catches On
By Adam Etheridge, Secretary, Coventry Jets AFC
Photograph courtesy of Scott Moynihan Images
Despite a 39-14 defeat at the hands of the Bristol Aztecs to open their season, the Coventry Jets remain enthused about their prospects for 2010. The spirit in the camp remains high as Gerry McManus looks to go out on a high note before Stuart Franklin arrives to take the reigns after Coventry’s return fixture with the Aztecs on the 6th of June.
One player who typifies that positive attitude is rookie wide receiver Sat Dhaliwal, “having followed the NFL for 15 years, I felt it was time to have a go at playing” stated the self-employed public sector contractor from Coundon. “It has been a crash course with a lot of hard work in a short period of time, but has been very enjoyable”.
Having come from a background of playing Football and Rugby from a young age, including winning a Warwickshire championship, the 31 year old has made great progress in switching to different shaped balls “the club have been very welcoming and the coaches have been excellent in helping me to develop the skills needed in adapting to playing the game.
The team has a good core of youth and experience particularly amongst the receivers, playing behind guys like Courtney Pope and Jeremy Simms can only help me develop into a better player and hopefully push for time on the field.
It’s great to be part of this organisation and having achieved great things in a short period of time I look forward in playing some part in helping them in the future.”
“We’ve been blessed with a great crop of rookies this year” noted McManus, “Sat’s a valued part of that group and brings enthusiasm and a good work ethic, I have no doubts that he’ll see a lot of game time this year on offence and special teams. The guys we’ve managed to bring through have already shown signs of what they can do. Chris Shorey had a fumble recovery on special teams and Mark Wade did a great job at linebacker. There’s a lot more to come from this group and it’s fantastic to watch them developing on a weekly basis”.
You can see how Dhaliwal and his fellow rookies continue their progression as the Jets entertain their nemesis, the London Blitz, at the Butts Park Arena on Saturday the 12th of June. The Blitz and Jets have faced off in the past three British finals with Coventry’s 2008 victory being sandwiched between London’s two national titles. The Blitz’s talented roster is loaded with GB internationals and is once again highlighted by Rod Bradley, aka Spartan, from Sky One’s Gladiators TV series.
Kick off is scheduled for 16:00 with tickets costing £5 for adults and £2 for under 16s. A family ticket is available for £10 and covers 2 adults and up to 4 children. For further details about getting involved or following the Jets, visit their website www.coventryjets.co.uk. You can also keep up with the latest Jets’ news on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets.
Photograph courtesy of Scott Moynihan Images
Despite a 39-14 defeat at the hands of the Bristol Aztecs to open their season, the Coventry Jets remain enthused about their prospects for 2010. The spirit in the camp remains high as Gerry McManus looks to go out on a high note before Stuart Franklin arrives to take the reigns after Coventry’s return fixture with the Aztecs on the 6th of June.
One player who typifies that positive attitude is rookie wide receiver Sat Dhaliwal, “having followed the NFL for 15 years, I felt it was time to have a go at playing” stated the self-employed public sector contractor from Coundon. “It has been a crash course with a lot of hard work in a short period of time, but has been very enjoyable”.
Having come from a background of playing Football and Rugby from a young age, including winning a Warwickshire championship, the 31 year old has made great progress in switching to different shaped balls “the club have been very welcoming and the coaches have been excellent in helping me to develop the skills needed in adapting to playing the game.
The team has a good core of youth and experience particularly amongst the receivers, playing behind guys like Courtney Pope and Jeremy Simms can only help me develop into a better player and hopefully push for time on the field.
It’s great to be part of this organisation and having achieved great things in a short period of time I look forward in playing some part in helping them in the future.”
“We’ve been blessed with a great crop of rookies this year” noted McManus, “Sat’s a valued part of that group and brings enthusiasm and a good work ethic, I have no doubts that he’ll see a lot of game time this year on offence and special teams. The guys we’ve managed to bring through have already shown signs of what they can do. Chris Shorey had a fumble recovery on special teams and Mark Wade did a great job at linebacker. There’s a lot more to come from this group and it’s fantastic to watch them developing on a weekly basis”.
You can see how Dhaliwal and his fellow rookies continue their progression as the Jets entertain their nemesis, the London Blitz, at the Butts Park Arena on Saturday the 12th of June. The Blitz and Jets have faced off in the past three British finals with Coventry’s 2008 victory being sandwiched between London’s two national titles. The Blitz’s talented roster is loaded with GB internationals and is once again highlighted by Rod Bradley, aka Spartan, from Sky One’s Gladiators TV series.
Kick off is scheduled for 16:00 with tickets costing £5 for adults and £2 for under 16s. A family ticket is available for £10 and covers 2 adults and up to 4 children. For further details about getting involved or following the Jets, visit their website www.coventryjets.co.uk. You can also keep up with the latest Jets’ news on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets.
New Tog for the Jets
By Adam Etheridge, Secretary, Coventry Jets AFC
After an overhaul on the field the Coventry Jets have turned their attentions to off the field vacancies. Scott Moynihan has been named as the club’s official photographer after replying to a recent advert and successfully negotiating the interview procedure.
“It's great to be involved with such a forward thinking team, the ground move to the Butts shows that ambition. It really is a pleasure to offer my services to them”.
Moynihan is a freelance photographer with a keen interest in sports, especially the fast paced variety. His sporting endeavours have up to now focused primarily on motor sport but his is portfolio is diverse enough to include wildlife work and promotional photoshoots for local musicians. Scott’s other work can be seen on his website http://www4.clikpic.com/scottmoynihan/index.html, whilst his first Jets’ photos have already been published worldwide.
Jets’ Secretary Adam Etheridge announced Moynihan’s involvement “I’m delighted to have Scott on board with us, he’s a quality photographer and his work speaks for itself. He has a hard act to follow in Chelle Bridges and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank her for her work over the years. Scott’s talented and enthusiastic, and, like all of us, can’t wait for the season to start”.
The Jets kick off their season against the Bristol Aztecs at the Butts Park Arena on Saturday the 22nd of May. The game will be preceded by the Jets Youth facing the Birmingham Bulls. The action gets underway at 11:00 and entry prices are £5 for adults, £2 for Under 16s with a family ticket that covers 2 adults and 4 children for just £10. For further information on the Coventry Jets visit their website www.coventryjets.co.uk or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets.
After an overhaul on the field the Coventry Jets have turned their attentions to off the field vacancies. Scott Moynihan has been named as the club’s official photographer after replying to a recent advert and successfully negotiating the interview procedure.
“It's great to be involved with such a forward thinking team, the ground move to the Butts shows that ambition. It really is a pleasure to offer my services to them”.
Moynihan is a freelance photographer with a keen interest in sports, especially the fast paced variety. His sporting endeavours have up to now focused primarily on motor sport but his is portfolio is diverse enough to include wildlife work and promotional photoshoots for local musicians. Scott’s other work can be seen on his website http://www4.clikpic.com/scottmoynihan/index.html, whilst his first Jets’ photos have already been published worldwide.
Jets’ Secretary Adam Etheridge announced Moynihan’s involvement “I’m delighted to have Scott on board with us, he’s a quality photographer and his work speaks for itself. He has a hard act to follow in Chelle Bridges and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank her for her work over the years. Scott’s talented and enthusiastic, and, like all of us, can’t wait for the season to start”.
The Jets kick off their season against the Bristol Aztecs at the Butts Park Arena on Saturday the 22nd of May. The game will be preceded by the Jets Youth facing the Birmingham Bulls. The action gets underway at 11:00 and entry prices are £5 for adults, £2 for Under 16s with a family ticket that covers 2 adults and 4 children for just £10. For further information on the Coventry Jets visit their website www.coventryjets.co.uk or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets.
Jets v Aztecs
By Adam Etheridge, Secretary, Coventry Jets AFC
Having met eight times over the past four seasons there is no team that the Coventry Jets have faced more frequently than the Bristol Aztecs. Apart from last year's 33-40 loss on the road in the final seconds the Jets’ record is unblemished and includes four post-season victories. With two more meetings in as many weeks the Jets have been handed a difficult start to 2010.
Bristol are already 2-0 after opening with a narrow 15-14 win over new boys, the London Cobras, and an emphatic 34-2 victory over bottom placed club the Sussex Thunder last Sunday. Every team in the Premier Division has now played at least once with the exception of the Jets and they will be desperate to get off to a good start at the Butts Park Arena on Saturday.
"We know what to expect" stated Head Coach Gerry McManus "they're big, physical and run the ball very well. We've had a look at their first two games and know their strengths and weaknesses". Obviously there are pros and cons to starting the season so late. "No one has seen us play so they don't know what to expect, also, we're fresh, everyone's healthy. Of course we're bound to have a little rust, most of the team haven't played since September but we've been training hard and the tempo's been high".
McManus remains as acting Head Coach until Stuart Franklin returns from Valencia to take the reigns. The double header with the old enemy represent the last matches in a storied career for the first man to be inducted into the Jets' Hall of Fame. These two meetings could go a long way to determining playoff positioning even this early in the year. Last season the Jets won the second seed over the Aztecs on points difference by the narrowest of margins. Coventry's 16-7 win at home in the corresponding fixture last year handed the Jets a two point tie-breaker
There will be no fewer than 22 new faces run out in Coventry’s colours for the first time this coming Saturday as the Jets’ roster overhaul looks complete “we’re a much younger side this year” noted McManus, “we’ve brought through a lot of rookies and there has been a lot of transfer activity. I’m excited by the team that we’ll be fielding this season, I don’t want to take anything away from what we’ve achieved over the past three years but I think this is our best squad since 2006”.
You can see how the team gels as the Jets kick off their season against the Bristol Aztecs at the Butts Park Arena on Saturday the 22nd of May. The game will be preceded by the Jets Youth facing the Birmingham Bulls. The action gets underway at 11:00 and entry prices are £5 for adults, £2 for Under 16s with a family ticket that covers 2 adults and 4 children for just £10. For further information on the Coventry Jets visit their website www.coventryjets.co.uk or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets.
Having met eight times over the past four seasons there is no team that the Coventry Jets have faced more frequently than the Bristol Aztecs. Apart from last year's 33-40 loss on the road in the final seconds the Jets’ record is unblemished and includes four post-season victories. With two more meetings in as many weeks the Jets have been handed a difficult start to 2010.
Bristol are already 2-0 after opening with a narrow 15-14 win over new boys, the London Cobras, and an emphatic 34-2 victory over bottom placed club the Sussex Thunder last Sunday. Every team in the Premier Division has now played at least once with the exception of the Jets and they will be desperate to get off to a good start at the Butts Park Arena on Saturday.
"We know what to expect" stated Head Coach Gerry McManus "they're big, physical and run the ball very well. We've had a look at their first two games and know their strengths and weaknesses". Obviously there are pros and cons to starting the season so late. "No one has seen us play so they don't know what to expect, also, we're fresh, everyone's healthy. Of course we're bound to have a little rust, most of the team haven't played since September but we've been training hard and the tempo's been high".
McManus remains as acting Head Coach until Stuart Franklin returns from Valencia to take the reigns. The double header with the old enemy represent the last matches in a storied career for the first man to be inducted into the Jets' Hall of Fame. These two meetings could go a long way to determining playoff positioning even this early in the year. Last season the Jets won the second seed over the Aztecs on points difference by the narrowest of margins. Coventry's 16-7 win at home in the corresponding fixture last year handed the Jets a two point tie-breaker
There will be no fewer than 22 new faces run out in Coventry’s colours for the first time this coming Saturday as the Jets’ roster overhaul looks complete “we’re a much younger side this year” noted McManus, “we’ve brought through a lot of rookies and there has been a lot of transfer activity. I’m excited by the team that we’ll be fielding this season, I don’t want to take anything away from what we’ve achieved over the past three years but I think this is our best squad since 2006”.
You can see how the team gels as the Jets kick off their season against the Bristol Aztecs at the Butts Park Arena on Saturday the 22nd of May. The game will be preceded by the Jets Youth facing the Birmingham Bulls. The action gets underway at 11:00 and entry prices are £5 for adults, £2 for Under 16s with a family ticket that covers 2 adults and 4 children for just £10. For further information on the Coventry Jets visit their website www.coventryjets.co.uk or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets.
David Saul Joins Jets
By Adam Etheridge, Secretary, Coventry Jets AFC
Photograph courtesy of Scott Moynihan Images.
The Coventry Jets have added yet more depth to their ranks with the signing of David Saul. The athletic youngster brings a devastating combination of speed and speed strength to the Jets receiving core where he will primarily be used, however, he is equally adept at playing on the defensive side of the ball. A Captain with his University team, the Sheffield Hallam Warriors, Saul has been named both Offensive and Defensive MVP leading his team into the playoffs where they eventually succumb to this season’s runners up, the Loughboro’ Aces.
At senior level Saul has also excelled with his previous team, the Yorkshire Rams where he has previously been named Rookie of the Year and Offensive MVP. After impressing Great Britain coaches Saul is hopeful of the opportunity to represent the Lions in Germany this summer as they look to improve on their fourth place finish in the 2005 European Championships.
“It’s always tough leaving a club behind, the Rams were incredible to me” stated Saul upon signing for the Jets. “I have a lot of friends there and I wish them the best of luck and will be cheering them on this year. Without the Rams I wouldn’t be where I am today, however, I know signing for the Jets has definitely opened up a lot more doors for me and provides a better opportunity for me to play at the highest level. I’m looking forward to showing up, playing hard and showing everyone what I’ve got”.
A 200 metre sprinter, the workout warrior also holds several weightlifting records at Sheffield Hallam University where he continues his in English and Journalism. The 20 year old Yorkshire native is looking forward to the challenge in his new surroundings “the Jets are the best football programme in the Country. I’m confident I can help take our title back from the Blitz come September. They’ve been very welcoming with me, I'm going to come in and just compete and be the player that I am”.
Saul’s transition has been eased by a previous signing, his former Rams team mate Benjamin Barker. “I had no choice about signing anyway, Ben and I come as a pair, the comedy duo: I got the talent and the looks; he got the jokes and the girl”. Barker’s not the only familiar face for Saul “I’d had some conversations with Head Coach Stuart Franklin who I met whilst with Great Britain, he’s a fantastic player and I’m really excited about working with him”.
Naturally competitive Saul has lofty goals for himself and the team “I want to be a great receiver, the best receiver, I’m looking forward to helping out in the return game as well but at the end of the day, I want to win a national title this year and I’ll chip in wherever I’m needed”. You can see how Saul fares on his debut as the Jets kick off their season against the Bristol Aztecs at the Butts Park Arena on Saturday the 22nd of May. The game will be preceded by the Jets Youth facing the Birmingham Bulls.
The action gets underway at 11:00 and entry prices are £5 for adults, £2 for Under 16s with a family ticket that covers 2 adults and 4 children for just £10. For further information on the Coventry Jets visit their website www.coventryjets.co.uk or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets.
Photograph courtesy of Scott Moynihan Images.
The Coventry Jets have added yet more depth to their ranks with the signing of David Saul. The athletic youngster brings a devastating combination of speed and speed strength to the Jets receiving core where he will primarily be used, however, he is equally adept at playing on the defensive side of the ball. A Captain with his University team, the Sheffield Hallam Warriors, Saul has been named both Offensive and Defensive MVP leading his team into the playoffs where they eventually succumb to this season’s runners up, the Loughboro’ Aces.
At senior level Saul has also excelled with his previous team, the Yorkshire Rams where he has previously been named Rookie of the Year and Offensive MVP. After impressing Great Britain coaches Saul is hopeful of the opportunity to represent the Lions in Germany this summer as they look to improve on their fourth place finish in the 2005 European Championships.
“It’s always tough leaving a club behind, the Rams were incredible to me” stated Saul upon signing for the Jets. “I have a lot of friends there and I wish them the best of luck and will be cheering them on this year. Without the Rams I wouldn’t be where I am today, however, I know signing for the Jets has definitely opened up a lot more doors for me and provides a better opportunity for me to play at the highest level. I’m looking forward to showing up, playing hard and showing everyone what I’ve got”.
A 200 metre sprinter, the workout warrior also holds several weightlifting records at Sheffield Hallam University where he continues his in English and Journalism. The 20 year old Yorkshire native is looking forward to the challenge in his new surroundings “the Jets are the best football programme in the Country. I’m confident I can help take our title back from the Blitz come September. They’ve been very welcoming with me, I'm going to come in and just compete and be the player that I am”.
Saul’s transition has been eased by a previous signing, his former Rams team mate Benjamin Barker. “I had no choice about signing anyway, Ben and I come as a pair, the comedy duo: I got the talent and the looks; he got the jokes and the girl”. Barker’s not the only familiar face for Saul “I’d had some conversations with Head Coach Stuart Franklin who I met whilst with Great Britain, he’s a fantastic player and I’m really excited about working with him”.
Naturally competitive Saul has lofty goals for himself and the team “I want to be a great receiver, the best receiver, I’m looking forward to helping out in the return game as well but at the end of the day, I want to win a national title this year and I’ll chip in wherever I’m needed”. You can see how Saul fares on his debut as the Jets kick off their season against the Bristol Aztecs at the Butts Park Arena on Saturday the 22nd of May. The game will be preceded by the Jets Youth facing the Birmingham Bulls.
The action gets underway at 11:00 and entry prices are £5 for adults, £2 for Under 16s with a family ticket that covers 2 adults and 4 children for just £10. For further information on the Coventry Jets visit their website www.coventryjets.co.uk or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets.
David Saul
Senior Flag Tournament in Durham