British American Football News
Kent Exiles Launch Junior Flag Team
By Martin Jefkins, Media Relations, Kent Exiles AFC
In the week before the Tampa Bay Buccaneers take on the New England Patriots in the third annual NFL ‘International Series’ game at a sold out Wembley stadium, the Kent Exiles are pleased to announce the newest addition to their club, with the launch of it’s first Flag American Football Team for boys and girls aged between 7 and 11.
The Exiles have recently been visiting local schools to showcase the game, and have been inundated with requests for a team following it’s popularity. Current senior flag squad Head Coach Steve Cook agreed to also head up the Junior version of the game, and will be ably assisted by local teacher Paul Schaller, himself a former player with the team.
Flag Football is the non-contact version of the sport, similar to Tag Rugby. The principles of the game are similar to the contact version of American Football, however, to make a tackle, you simply rip a flag or ribbon from a belt worn by the ball carrier – it is as easy as that!
Flag Football focuses on the fundamentals of the sport such as running, throwing and catching. It is played by both boys and girls, normally five-a-side. Training is open to all-comers, and requires no previous experience. All equipment for training and playing is provided - but participants should dress appropriately.
The Kent Exiles are one of the UK’s most progressive teams, with squads playing in fivd different age groups in both the kitted and non-kitted versions of the game. The club has over 15 qualified coaches, and is entirely run by volunteers.
Training will start on Sunday 18th October 2009, and will be between 12 and 1pm, at Orpington Rugby Club (the Exiles normal training venue). Training will run fortnightly at present. To cover costs, participants will be charged £1 per person per session.
For more information, or directions, please email contactus@kentexiles.co.uk or visit the Exiles website www.kentexiles.co.uk Who knows, we could have the next Joe Montana or Dan Marino right here in Orpington…!
In the week before the Tampa Bay Buccaneers take on the New England Patriots in the third annual NFL ‘International Series’ game at a sold out Wembley stadium, the Kent Exiles are pleased to announce the newest addition to their club, with the launch of it’s first Flag American Football Team for boys and girls aged between 7 and 11.
The Exiles have recently been visiting local schools to showcase the game, and have been inundated with requests for a team following it’s popularity. Current senior flag squad Head Coach Steve Cook agreed to also head up the Junior version of the game, and will be ably assisted by local teacher Paul Schaller, himself a former player with the team.
Flag Football is the non-contact version of the sport, similar to Tag Rugby. The principles of the game are similar to the contact version of American Football, however, to make a tackle, you simply rip a flag or ribbon from a belt worn by the ball carrier – it is as easy as that!
Flag Football focuses on the fundamentals of the sport such as running, throwing and catching. It is played by both boys and girls, normally five-a-side. Training is open to all-comers, and requires no previous experience. All equipment for training and playing is provided - but participants should dress appropriately.
The Kent Exiles are one of the UK’s most progressive teams, with squads playing in fivd different age groups in both the kitted and non-kitted versions of the game. The club has over 15 qualified coaches, and is entirely run by volunteers.
Training will start on Sunday 18th October 2009, and will be between 12 and 1pm, at Orpington Rugby Club (the Exiles normal training venue). Training will run fortnightly at present. To cover costs, participants will be charged £1 per person per session.
For more information, or directions, please email contactus@kentexiles.co.uk or visit the Exiles website www.kentexiles.co.uk Who knows, we could have the next Joe Montana or Dan Marino right here in Orpington…!
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Festival of Football
T5-Redditch July 19th
T5-Redditch July 19th
The Festival of Football has been confirmed as taking place on July 19th in Redditch. This year, it is a flag football tournament only.
Please contact colinbrangah@aol.com for details and to register your team.
This will be the 5th flag football tournament of the BAFL season.
You can find a map and directions to the venue here:
http://www.redditcharrows.com/html/how_to_find_us.html
The address is:
Kings Norton Rugby Football Club
Ash Lane, Hopwood
Alvechurch
Birmingham
West Midlands
B48 7TS
Please contact colinbrangah@aol.com for details and to register your team.
This will be the 5th flag football tournament of the BAFL season.
You can find a map and directions to the venue here:
http://www.redditcharrows.com/html/how_to_find_us.html
The address is:
Kings Norton Rugby Football Club
Ash Lane, Hopwood
Alvechurch
Birmingham
West Midlands
B48 7TS
Results and Standings Under 18 Flag Football
By Andrew Gambrill, Head Coach, Coventry Cassidy Jets Adult Flag
Cadet
CH Sharks 6 Coventry Bears 43
CH Sharks 12 Coventry Bears 32
Juniors
CH Royals 33 Coventry Bears Juniors 13
Coventry Bears Juniors 28 Coventry Huskies 0
CH Royals 18 Coventry Huskies 0
Youth
CH Blue Coats 54 Coventry Bears Youth 14
Coventry Bears Youth 6 Leicester Eagles 34
Leicester Eagles 24 CH Blue Coats 13
Standings after T2
Cadet
Coventry Bears 10
Chorley Buccaneers 3
Studley Bearcats 2
Junior
Woodham Warriors1 5
Coventry Bears 4
Woodham Warriors2 3
Coventry Huskies 2
Chorley Buccaneers 2
Youth
Woodham Warriors 5
Leicester Eagles 5
Coventry Bears 4
Chorley Buccaneers 3
Cadet
CH Sharks 6 Coventry Bears 43
CH Sharks 12 Coventry Bears 32
Juniors
CH Royals 33 Coventry Bears Juniors 13
Coventry Bears Juniors 28 Coventry Huskies 0
CH Royals 18 Coventry Huskies 0
Youth
CH Blue Coats 54 Coventry Bears Youth 14
Coventry Bears Youth 6 Leicester Eagles 34
Leicester Eagles 24 CH Blue Coats 13
Standings after T2
Cadet
Coventry Bears 10
Chorley Buccaneers 3
Studley Bearcats 2
Junior
Woodham Warriors1 5
Coventry Bears 4
Woodham Warriors2 3
Coventry Huskies 2
Chorley Buccaneers 2
Youth
Woodham Warriors 5
Leicester Eagles 5
Coventry Bears 4
Chorley Buccaneers 3
Flag Football Diary Dates
Please find below confirmed dates for Flag tournaments. For further details please contact Andrew Gambrill at andrewg33uk@hotmail.com
Woodham Saturday May 9th
Peterborough Saturday June 20th
Leicester Sunday August 9th
Doncaster Saturday September 5th *Finals*
There are four other proposed tournaments currently in the later stages of planning at Coventry, Redditch, Horsham and Swindon. We will bring you further details as and when these are confirmed.
Woodham Saturday May 9th
Peterborough Saturday June 20th
Leicester Sunday August 9th
Doncaster Saturday September 5th *Finals*
There are four other proposed tournaments currently in the later stages of planning at Coventry, Redditch, Horsham and Swindon. We will bring you further details as and when these are confirmed.
Leicester Eagles Soar into Tournament
Photograph courtesy of Gillie Mepstead
Photograph courtesy of Gillie Mepstead
The Leicester Eagles will host a BAFL ranking tournament on Sunday August 9th at Belgrave Rugby Football Club, Thurcaston Road, Belgrave, Leicester, LE4 2QG
This could be a key tournament being so close to the final. Teams could be coming to this knowing exactly they what they need to do to qualify. Always well organised, the Eagles, the oldest flag football team in England, will put on a first class event.
Further details will be released nearer the time. Meanwhile, the first Tournament of the year, held at reigning Junior & Youth Champions Woodham Warriors, is only a few days away.
This could be a key tournament being so close to the final. Teams could be coming to this knowing exactly they what they need to do to qualify. Always well organised, the Eagles, the oldest flag football team in England, will put on a first class event.
Further details will be released nearer the time. Meanwhile, the first Tournament of the year, held at reigning Junior & Youth Champions Woodham Warriors, is only a few days away.
Left to Right Nathan Stephenson (Eagles), Alex Moore (Eagles), Chris Mepstead (Bears), Charlie Craggs (Eagles) & Sam-Tyler Prosser (Bears)
Coventry Cassidy Jets Adult Flag Team Schedule Released
The Coventry Cassidy Jets Senior Flag Team have released their 2009 schedule and face a tough start to the campaign as they look to improve on last season’s third place finish. Canadian imports Neil Balthazaar and David Sonne have both returned home leaving a big hole to fill, especially as Balthazaar also filled the role of Head Coach. Andrew Gambrill is charged with filling the Canadian quarterback’s ample shoes. Having played and coached with Great Britain, Gambrill brings a wealth of experience and, with 13 National Titles under his belt, a winning mentality.
Apart from supplying the team’s new Head Coach, the Gambrill family have also provided a starting quarterback. Andrew’s nephew Marcus Gambrill steps up lead the offence as both co-ordinator and quarterback. Working closely with Balthazar last year Marcus has shown enough in his pre-season appearances to offer hope that the Jets will once again compete at the National Finals in Doncaster come early September.
Returning for a second season are Great Britain star running backs Luke Gambrill and Shadrach McCook, the latter of which grabbed the 2008 Jets Player of the Year Award. Joint Rookies of the Year, Steve Timmins and Rob Coleman also return and will be joined by Gemma and Lisa Eaton who have transferred from local rivals the Leicester Eagles.
The Jets begin their title quest on the 6th of June with a trip to Kent where they’ll face local rivals the Leicester Eagles and host team the Kent Exiles. Another long trip awaits on the 27th of June as Gambrill takes his squad to Cardiff to tangle with league newcomers the South Wales Warriors as well as last years bottom placed club the St Albans Kings.
Another newcomer, the London Rebels, host a third straight away day for the Jets, as well as the hosts Coventry will again meet the Kent Exiles. After 6 away games to start the season, the Jets will host 6 of the final 8 games. First to visit the Jets will be the Eagles and Kings on July 26th, followed by the Rebels and Chichester Sharks on August 1st. The following weekend will see the longest trip for the Jets as they head down to Chichester to face the Sharks and the Hampshire Thrashers before returning home to host the Thrashers and Warriors on the 22nd.
Apart from supplying the team’s new Head Coach, the Gambrill family have also provided a starting quarterback. Andrew’s nephew Marcus Gambrill steps up lead the offence as both co-ordinator and quarterback. Working closely with Balthazar last year Marcus has shown enough in his pre-season appearances to offer hope that the Jets will once again compete at the National Finals in Doncaster come early September.
Returning for a second season are Great Britain star running backs Luke Gambrill and Shadrach McCook, the latter of which grabbed the 2008 Jets Player of the Year Award. Joint Rookies of the Year, Steve Timmins and Rob Coleman also return and will be joined by Gemma and Lisa Eaton who have transferred from local rivals the Leicester Eagles.
The Jets begin their title quest on the 6th of June with a trip to Kent where they’ll face local rivals the Leicester Eagles and host team the Kent Exiles. Another long trip awaits on the 27th of June as Gambrill takes his squad to Cardiff to tangle with league newcomers the South Wales Warriors as well as last years bottom placed club the St Albans Kings.
Another newcomer, the London Rebels, host a third straight away day for the Jets, as well as the hosts Coventry will again meet the Kent Exiles. After 6 away games to start the season, the Jets will host 6 of the final 8 games. First to visit the Jets will be the Eagles and Kings on July 26th, followed by the Rebels and Chichester Sharks on August 1st. The following weekend will see the longest trip for the Jets as they head down to Chichester to face the Sharks and the Hampshire Thrashers before returning home to host the Thrashers and Warriors on the 22nd.
Running Back Shadrach McCook #83 avoids a London Rebels attacker
Head Coach
Andrew Gambrill
Andrew Gambrill
T6 – The Final BAFL Ranking Tournament of the Year
By Andrew Gambrill, Head Coach, Coventry Cassidy Jets Flag
Photograph courtesy of Gillie Mepstead
The Leicester Eagles will host T6. the final BAFL ranking tournament on Sunday August 9th at Belgrave Rugby Football Club, Thurcaston Road, Belgrave, Leicester, LE4 2QG.
If you are interested in entering your team, please contact Aileen Pimperton on aileenpimperton@btinternet.com
Closing date for entrants is August 2nd
Both Coventry (Cadet, Junior and Youth) and Woodham (Junior and Youth) have signalled their intentions of attending as they battle it out for the youth championship, although I'm sure the hosts, Eagles will have a say in where the title goes.
Photograph courtesy of Gillie Mepstead
The Leicester Eagles will host T6. the final BAFL ranking tournament on Sunday August 9th at Belgrave Rugby Football Club, Thurcaston Road, Belgrave, Leicester, LE4 2QG.
If you are interested in entering your team, please contact Aileen Pimperton on aileenpimperton@btinternet.com
Closing date for entrants is August 2nd
Both Coventry (Cadet, Junior and Youth) and Woodham (Junior and Youth) have signalled their intentions of attending as they battle it out for the youth championship, although I'm sure the hosts, Eagles will have a say in where the title goes.
League Standing after T5
* denotes team have qualified for finals
+ denotes Champions
Cadet (Top 3 qualify)
Coventry Bears 20*+
Studley Bearcats 8*
Chorley Buccaneers 5
----------------------------
Junior Top 2 qualify
Coventry Bears 17*+
Woodham Warriors(1)10*
---------------------
Chorley Buccaneers 5
Woodham Warriors(2) 3
London Warriors 3
Coventry Huskies 2
Birmingham Silverbacks2
Youth Top 3 qualify
Coventry Bears 12*
Woodham Warriors 10*
Leicester Eagles 8*
--------------------------
Chorley Buccaneers 3
+ denotes Champions
Cadet (Top 3 qualify)
Coventry Bears 20*+
Studley Bearcats 8*
Chorley Buccaneers 5
----------------------------
Junior Top 2 qualify
Coventry Bears 17*+
Woodham Warriors(1)10*
---------------------
Chorley Buccaneers 5
Woodham Warriors(2) 3
London Warriors 3
Coventry Huskies 2
Birmingham Silverbacks2
Youth Top 3 qualify
Coventry Bears 12*
Woodham Warriors 10*
Leicester Eagles 8*
--------------------------
Chorley Buccaneers 3
T5 Festival of Football
Today, 19th July, I had the enormous pleasure of attending the T5 Festival of Football, and I really do mean pleasure. I was in two minds before I got there, not only because the weather forecast was dire, but also because I’d never attended a Flag Tournament before so wasn’t sure what to expect.
The first thing that struck me was the Chorley Buccaneers had erected an absolutely fabulous tent for their two respective teams, the Cadets and Juniors; a simple but great way of being able to keep all their kit together, keep their teams safe and dry and provide their own changing facilities.
Then as I wandered around before the tournament started, I was struck by the atmosphere that surrounded the teams. Every young face was smiling or laughing and enjoying every single moment of being together, and they all seemed completely relaxed and just waiting for some fun.
The other thing that became apparent is these kids just don’t stop when they come off the pitch; even when they are not playing an actual game, they are throwing a ball around, exercising, and just generally having fun.
I saw so much heart and spirit today, it was a joy to be there. But the other thing I saw was talent by the bucket load – kids no taller than 3 feet high kicking balls clean over the cross bars whilst just messing about! Balls being thrown and caught with such skill it was breathtaking, but they thought nothing of it – they were just having fun.
I have to say, the attitude of these kids is a credit to their coaches, who without exception did an outstanding job today. It’s easy to see why Andrew Gambrill has been named Flag Coach of the Year, but all the other guys are equally as brilliant. They encourage these kids all the way; they give time, kindness, advice and patience. It’s obvious these coaches are a special breed, who never, bully, shout or threaten.
So to all the clubs who competed today, Woodham Warriors, Studley Cadets, Chorley Buccaneers and Coventry Bears, I think I can safely say, if the future of British American Football lies in your hands, not only does the future look safe, it looks very exciting.
The first thing that struck me was the Chorley Buccaneers had erected an absolutely fabulous tent for their two respective teams, the Cadets and Juniors; a simple but great way of being able to keep all their kit together, keep their teams safe and dry and provide their own changing facilities.
Then as I wandered around before the tournament started, I was struck by the atmosphere that surrounded the teams. Every young face was smiling or laughing and enjoying every single moment of being together, and they all seemed completely relaxed and just waiting for some fun.
The other thing that became apparent is these kids just don’t stop when they come off the pitch; even when they are not playing an actual game, they are throwing a ball around, exercising, and just generally having fun.
I saw so much heart and spirit today, it was a joy to be there. But the other thing I saw was talent by the bucket load – kids no taller than 3 feet high kicking balls clean over the cross bars whilst just messing about! Balls being thrown and caught with such skill it was breathtaking, but they thought nothing of it – they were just having fun.
I have to say, the attitude of these kids is a credit to their coaches, who without exception did an outstanding job today. It’s easy to see why Andrew Gambrill has been named Flag Coach of the Year, but all the other guys are equally as brilliant. They encourage these kids all the way; they give time, kindness, advice and patience. It’s obvious these coaches are a special breed, who never, bully, shout or threaten.
So to all the clubs who competed today, Woodham Warriors, Studley Cadets, Chorley Buccaneers and Coventry Bears, I think I can safely say, if the future of British American Football lies in your hands, not only does the future look safe, it looks very exciting.
Little Andrew Carr, had his 7th birthday only a week ago
Chorley Buccaneers with Head Coach Lee Taylor
Final Standings
Kindly provided by Andrew Gambrill, Flag Head Coach of the Year
Cadet (Top 3 qualify)
Coventry Bears 20
Studley Bearcats 8
Chorley Buccaneers 5
----------------------------
Junior (Top 2 qualify)
Coventry Bears 20
Woodham Warriors(1)10 Woodham qualify with superior head to head result
---------------------
Chorley Buccaneers 10
Woodham Warriors(2) 3
London Warriors 3
Coventry Huskies 2
Birmingham Silverbacks2
Youth (Top 3 qualify)
Coventry Bears 15
Leicester Eagles 13
Woodham Warriors 10
Kindly provided by Andrew Gambrill, Flag Head Coach of the Year
Cadet (Top 3 qualify)
Coventry Bears 20
Studley Bearcats 8
Chorley Buccaneers 5
----------------------------
Junior (Top 2 qualify)
Coventry Bears 20
Woodham Warriors(1)10 Woodham qualify with superior head to head result
---------------------
Chorley Buccaneers 10
Woodham Warriors(2) 3
London Warriors 3
Coventry Huskies 2
Birmingham Silverbacks2
Youth (Top 3 qualify)
Coventry Bears 15
Leicester Eagles 13
Woodham Warriors 10
GB Lions Junior Flag Football 2009
The GB Lions Flag Football programme is delighted to announce details of the first national programme activities in 2009 under Coach Tait.
The GB Lions junior squad will face one of the best flag football teams in the world in the shape of Miami’s Mo Steel Football (primetimefootball.com) in October this year. Mo Steel are looked upon as being one of the best flag football programmes, not just in America, but in the world, and have been American national champions several times over.
Coach Tait said, “This is an amazing opportunity for our elite young players in this country to challenge themselves against some of the best young talent in the world. I am very excited about the challenge ahead and the ability to pull of a fixture of this nature for the national programme”. Coach Tait went on to say that, “this will serve as a superb motivational vehicle to all young flag players in the country and it will be one of the best developmental opportunities available to elite players wishing to further themselves within the game”.
The fixture is scheduled for Sunday Oct 4th 2009 at Woodham Community Technology College, with a national selection camp on Sat 12th September at the same location. Eligibility for the selection camp will come from personal invites to stand out junior players from the BAFL season via Coach Tait, and also personal player nominations via club coaches. All players nominated must be BAFL registered junior flag football players. Two squads will be selected for the game against Mo Steel, an A & B team, enabling more talented players to be included within the national programme.
Details of how club coaches can nominate players for the national selection camp will be released in August. In the meantime, club coaches should begin to think about any nominations carefully, specifically looking at athletic players who stand out in their team and have the ability to change a game.
The GB Lions junior squad will face one of the best flag football teams in the world in the shape of Miami’s Mo Steel Football (primetimefootball.com) in October this year. Mo Steel are looked upon as being one of the best flag football programmes, not just in America, but in the world, and have been American national champions several times over.
Coach Tait said, “This is an amazing opportunity for our elite young players in this country to challenge themselves against some of the best young talent in the world. I am very excited about the challenge ahead and the ability to pull of a fixture of this nature for the national programme”. Coach Tait went on to say that, “this will serve as a superb motivational vehicle to all young flag players in the country and it will be one of the best developmental opportunities available to elite players wishing to further themselves within the game”.
The fixture is scheduled for Sunday Oct 4th 2009 at Woodham Community Technology College, with a national selection camp on Sat 12th September at the same location. Eligibility for the selection camp will come from personal invites to stand out junior players from the BAFL season via Coach Tait, and also personal player nominations via club coaches. All players nominated must be BAFL registered junior flag football players. Two squads will be selected for the game against Mo Steel, an A & B team, enabling more talented players to be included within the national programme.
Details of how club coaches can nominate players for the national selection camp will be released in August. In the meantime, club coaches should begin to think about any nominations carefully, specifically looking at athletic players who stand out in their team and have the ability to change a game.
Chorley Buccaneers Host Coventry Bears in a Great Friendly Flag Day
By Andrew Gambrill, Coventry Bears
Photographs courtesy of Chelle Bridges
On a cold and bleak October Sunday, the Chorley Buccaneers hosted the Coventry Bears for some Cadet & Junior Flag friendly games, and although the weather wasn't the friendliest the games definitely were.
The Cadets played first and it was the Bears who struck first with a short pass to receiver Kieran Eaton who then ran the rest of the field to score the first points of the day, the extra point conversion was no good making the score 0 - 6 to the Bears. The Buccaneers, not to be shown up, came and on the first play Quarterback Zak Christie completed a short pass to receiver James Schofield who then outran the Bears’ Defence to tie the score, Christie then connected with Center Liam Cornes to give the Buccaneers the lead 7-6.
As the two teams traded possessions it was the Buccaneers who were to put the next points on the Board with Christie throwing the ball eight yards into the endzone, and Schofield making an amazing diving catch for the touchdown. Christie found Cornes once again for the conversion giving the Buccaneers a 14-6 lead going into the half.
The second half saw the Buccaneers start on offence but the Bears’ defence looked fired up and shut them out to get possession of the ball. Unfortunately for the Bears the Buccaneers defence had the same attitude and so the Buccaneers soon had the ball back. As the Buccaneers drove downfield, a halfback option fooled the Bears’ defence with Schofield receiving the toss from Christie but then passed it back to him after drawing the defence in; Christie then ran seven yards into the endzone to make the score 20-6. The conversion however was intercepted by Kieran Eaton and looked set to go back the other way for two points but for Stefan Collins chasing down the run away Bear to make the tackle.
This sparked up the Bears who. with a run from Meshach McCook, for the full length of the field gave the Bears their second touchdown of the day. The extra point was no good though making the score 20-12 to the Buccaneers. The Buccaneers knew this game was far from over and the offence took the field and drove down to within nine yards of the endzone. Unstoppable QB Christie found his trusty centre once again but this time for six points, however the extra point was no good to put the score at 26-12.
Coventry as always not to be outdone came out and a short pass from Vickie Mepstead to Precious McCook saw her dodge several tackles and go bounding all the way for the score bringing it once again to a close game with the score at 26-18; the extra point conversion falling incomplete. The Buccaneers’ offence seeming to be on a roll were soon brought to a halt when the Bears intercepted Christie's pass to Collins.
One play was all the Bears needed as a rookie Quarterback Ben Eaton came on and fired a fifteen yard pass over all of the Buccaneers’ defence to connect with his brother Kieran who was then homeward bound to the endzone bringing the score to 26-24. The Bears knew that with time dwindling down fast they had to go for two points to make the score all even and as a nice looking pass headed towards the endzone. Collins once again showed some great awareness and plucked the ball out of the air and ran it from endzone to endzone to give the Buccaneers the two points instead to make the score 28 - 24.
With the game in the last two minutes and the score being so close the Buccaneers were running down the clock but found themselves in the 'no-run' zone and had no choice but to pass it. Sure enough though, that man Cornes was calling for the ball and Christie once again threw his team mate a perfect pass to give the Buccaneers another score. Christie then connected with Dominic Wilson to end the game with the final score 35-24 to the Buccaneers and their first win over Coventry this season.
Junior Flag Game
With the Junior teams itching to play moments after the Cadet game had finished the two teams were on the field and ready to go.
The Bears were first on offence but were shut out by the Buccaneers’ defence and had to resort to the sideline. As the Buccaneers offence took the field the first play for them saw Quarterback Arron Taylor throw the ball direct to a Bears’ rookie cornerback, Josh Michelle, who then ran six yards into the endzone to open up the scoring. The extra point saw Bears’ Quarterback Mepstead connect with Tom Clancy to make the score 0-7.
The Buccaneers’ offence retook the field and this time drove downfield and Quarterback Taylor shrugging off the previous interception connected with Will Powley for the Buccaneers’ first score; the extra point was no good leaving the score at 6-7 to the Bears. The Buccaneers’ defence once again shut down the Bears’ offence and it looked like they had the upper hand, however the Bears had different ideas and another intercepted Taylor pass found the teams change round again. Mepstead took no time in connecting with Clancy for a touchdown but the conversion was no good and the score was now 6-13.
As the Buccaneers’ Offence retook the field the ground game came into play and Running Back Matt Holt ran the whole length of the field for his first touchdown of the day, and after an incomplete conversion attempt the score become 12-13. The two teams then traded possessions but Coventry soon widened the gap by scoring again, and then went for two points and a pass from Mepstead to Clancy saw the score go to 12 - 21.
As the two teams looked set not to give up, Buccaneers’ rookie running back Callum ran the whole length of the field to make the score 19-21, then Coventry answered straight back making it 18-27. Callum wasn't content in scoring one touchdown in his first ever game and went full length of the field to make it 24-27. The Buccaneers then got their first extra point conversion of the day with Taylor passing to Connor Martindale to bring the score even closer to 25-27 to bring a thrilling first half to an end.
The second half started and the first points weren't until eight minutes into the half when Taylor connected with Holt for a one yard touchdown and then the same two joined forces again for the one point conversion giving the Buccaneers the lead for first time in the game with the score at 32-27.
The two teams traded possessions again with the Bears ending a Buccaneers’ offensive drive and Clancy picking off an errant pass from Taylor due to great pressure from Terrell Burgess who was playing in his first game for Coventry. The Bears then went on to get into the endzone with Clancy now playing Quarterback and finding Center Josh Keys for six points. Clancy then connected with Brad Bowers for the one point giving the Bears the lead once again with the score at 32-34.
With full time closing in Buccaneers’ Callum once again ran over half the field for his third score of the day; the Buccaneers decided to go for two points for a bigger lead and Quarterback Taylor hit Powley on a short pass who then ran into the endzone for the two points and put the score at 40-34 to the Buccaneers.
The game was inside the last two minutes now and both teams traded possessions once more but then in the last twenty seconds Mepstead connected with Clancy on a long pass with Matt Holt making a score saving tackle and as the Buccaneers’ defence got the Bears to fourth down but with only four yards needed to score, Mepstead found Bowers again to even the scores at 40-40. With the extra point being the last play of the game it was all on this and as every coach, player and spectator watched eagerly the Buccaneers knocked the ball down to finish the game a tie.
Photographs courtesy of Chelle Bridges
On a cold and bleak October Sunday, the Chorley Buccaneers hosted the Coventry Bears for some Cadet & Junior Flag friendly games, and although the weather wasn't the friendliest the games definitely were.
The Cadets played first and it was the Bears who struck first with a short pass to receiver Kieran Eaton who then ran the rest of the field to score the first points of the day, the extra point conversion was no good making the score 0 - 6 to the Bears. The Buccaneers, not to be shown up, came and on the first play Quarterback Zak Christie completed a short pass to receiver James Schofield who then outran the Bears’ Defence to tie the score, Christie then connected with Center Liam Cornes to give the Buccaneers the lead 7-6.
As the two teams traded possessions it was the Buccaneers who were to put the next points on the Board with Christie throwing the ball eight yards into the endzone, and Schofield making an amazing diving catch for the touchdown. Christie found Cornes once again for the conversion giving the Buccaneers a 14-6 lead going into the half.
The second half saw the Buccaneers start on offence but the Bears’ defence looked fired up and shut them out to get possession of the ball. Unfortunately for the Bears the Buccaneers defence had the same attitude and so the Buccaneers soon had the ball back. As the Buccaneers drove downfield, a halfback option fooled the Bears’ defence with Schofield receiving the toss from Christie but then passed it back to him after drawing the defence in; Christie then ran seven yards into the endzone to make the score 20-6. The conversion however was intercepted by Kieran Eaton and looked set to go back the other way for two points but for Stefan Collins chasing down the run away Bear to make the tackle.
This sparked up the Bears who. with a run from Meshach McCook, for the full length of the field gave the Bears their second touchdown of the day. The extra point was no good though making the score 20-12 to the Buccaneers. The Buccaneers knew this game was far from over and the offence took the field and drove down to within nine yards of the endzone. Unstoppable QB Christie found his trusty centre once again but this time for six points, however the extra point was no good to put the score at 26-12.
Coventry as always not to be outdone came out and a short pass from Vickie Mepstead to Precious McCook saw her dodge several tackles and go bounding all the way for the score bringing it once again to a close game with the score at 26-18; the extra point conversion falling incomplete. The Buccaneers’ offence seeming to be on a roll were soon brought to a halt when the Bears intercepted Christie's pass to Collins.
One play was all the Bears needed as a rookie Quarterback Ben Eaton came on and fired a fifteen yard pass over all of the Buccaneers’ defence to connect with his brother Kieran who was then homeward bound to the endzone bringing the score to 26-24. The Bears knew that with time dwindling down fast they had to go for two points to make the score all even and as a nice looking pass headed towards the endzone. Collins once again showed some great awareness and plucked the ball out of the air and ran it from endzone to endzone to give the Buccaneers the two points instead to make the score 28 - 24.
With the game in the last two minutes and the score being so close the Buccaneers were running down the clock but found themselves in the 'no-run' zone and had no choice but to pass it. Sure enough though, that man Cornes was calling for the ball and Christie once again threw his team mate a perfect pass to give the Buccaneers another score. Christie then connected with Dominic Wilson to end the game with the final score 35-24 to the Buccaneers and their first win over Coventry this season.
Junior Flag Game
With the Junior teams itching to play moments after the Cadet game had finished the two teams were on the field and ready to go.
The Bears were first on offence but were shut out by the Buccaneers’ defence and had to resort to the sideline. As the Buccaneers offence took the field the first play for them saw Quarterback Arron Taylor throw the ball direct to a Bears’ rookie cornerback, Josh Michelle, who then ran six yards into the endzone to open up the scoring. The extra point saw Bears’ Quarterback Mepstead connect with Tom Clancy to make the score 0-7.
The Buccaneers’ offence retook the field and this time drove downfield and Quarterback Taylor shrugging off the previous interception connected with Will Powley for the Buccaneers’ first score; the extra point was no good leaving the score at 6-7 to the Bears. The Buccaneers’ defence once again shut down the Bears’ offence and it looked like they had the upper hand, however the Bears had different ideas and another intercepted Taylor pass found the teams change round again. Mepstead took no time in connecting with Clancy for a touchdown but the conversion was no good and the score was now 6-13.
As the Buccaneers’ Offence retook the field the ground game came into play and Running Back Matt Holt ran the whole length of the field for his first touchdown of the day, and after an incomplete conversion attempt the score become 12-13. The two teams then traded possessions but Coventry soon widened the gap by scoring again, and then went for two points and a pass from Mepstead to Clancy saw the score go to 12 - 21.
As the two teams looked set not to give up, Buccaneers’ rookie running back Callum ran the whole length of the field to make the score 19-21, then Coventry answered straight back making it 18-27. Callum wasn't content in scoring one touchdown in his first ever game and went full length of the field to make it 24-27. The Buccaneers then got their first extra point conversion of the day with Taylor passing to Connor Martindale to bring the score even closer to 25-27 to bring a thrilling first half to an end.
The second half started and the first points weren't until eight minutes into the half when Taylor connected with Holt for a one yard touchdown and then the same two joined forces again for the one point conversion giving the Buccaneers the lead for first time in the game with the score at 32-27.
The two teams traded possessions again with the Bears ending a Buccaneers’ offensive drive and Clancy picking off an errant pass from Taylor due to great pressure from Terrell Burgess who was playing in his first game for Coventry. The Bears then went on to get into the endzone with Clancy now playing Quarterback and finding Center Josh Keys for six points. Clancy then connected with Brad Bowers for the one point giving the Bears the lead once again with the score at 32-34.
With full time closing in Buccaneers’ Callum once again ran over half the field for his third score of the day; the Buccaneers decided to go for two points for a bigger lead and Quarterback Taylor hit Powley on a short pass who then ran into the endzone for the two points and put the score at 40-34 to the Buccaneers.
The game was inside the last two minutes now and both teams traded possessions once more but then in the last twenty seconds Mepstead connected with Clancy on a long pass with Matt Holt making a score saving tackle and as the Buccaneers’ defence got the Bears to fourth down but with only four yards needed to score, Mepstead found Bowers again to even the scores at 40-40. With the extra point being the last play of the game it was all on this and as every coach, player and spectator watched eagerly the Buccaneers knocked the ball down to finish the game a tie.
Coventry's Tom Clancy closes in on Matt Holt of the Bucs
QB Mepstead rolls out with teammate Josh Keys, with Chorley's Johnny Tickle in coverage
Yardes Ahead
By Tom Beasley
Photographer Unknown
Success reigned at the Coventry American Football Academy Awards Night on the 20th November with young starlet Hannah Russell-Yarde scooping the Coaches’ Award amongst a shed-load of other winners of various different awards. All of the players received their medals and certificates for winning the English Conference Championship.
In attendance to give kudos to the award winners were Coventry Jets’ players Will White, Shadrach McCook and Parm Sidhu who serve as excellent role models to the aspiring youth players. As well as this, the Jets’ General Manager. Gerry McManus. sent messages of congratulations to all of the players for how well they had performed over the course of the season.
Speaking after presenting Hannah with her award, team coach Andrew Gambrill described her as an “astonishing talent” and she herself expressed her delight, saying, “I was glad and honoured that my Head Coach, Andrew would give me the award and it was really nice to hear all the nice things he said.”
A notable mention also goes to Tikisha McCook who was the only player to receive two awards, one from the coaches and one from her team mates. She praised the rest of her team, saying, "I really wasn’t expecting to get these awards, as I play with so many good players.” Gambrill had high praise for this player, describing her as, “probably the best blitzer I have ever seen.”
Triumph over adversity was also brought up as winners “Super” Dan Overton and Chris Mepstead were able to win their awards after having to recover from surgery. Prize winner Vickie Mepstead surprised everyone by taking up the microphone and presenting some awards of her own.
Coach Andrew praised Vickie for this saying, “it was a really touching moment from a considerate young lady", adding with a chuckle, "I'm just worried that she did a better job than me!”
All in all, it was a fantastic night in which all of the players involved were rewarded for the amazing season they have had.
Photographer Unknown
Success reigned at the Coventry American Football Academy Awards Night on the 20th November with young starlet Hannah Russell-Yarde scooping the Coaches’ Award amongst a shed-load of other winners of various different awards. All of the players received their medals and certificates for winning the English Conference Championship.
In attendance to give kudos to the award winners were Coventry Jets’ players Will White, Shadrach McCook and Parm Sidhu who serve as excellent role models to the aspiring youth players. As well as this, the Jets’ General Manager. Gerry McManus. sent messages of congratulations to all of the players for how well they had performed over the course of the season.
Speaking after presenting Hannah with her award, team coach Andrew Gambrill described her as an “astonishing talent” and she herself expressed her delight, saying, “I was glad and honoured that my Head Coach, Andrew would give me the award and it was really nice to hear all the nice things he said.”
A notable mention also goes to Tikisha McCook who was the only player to receive two awards, one from the coaches and one from her team mates. She praised the rest of her team, saying, "I really wasn’t expecting to get these awards, as I play with so many good players.” Gambrill had high praise for this player, describing her as, “probably the best blitzer I have ever seen.”
Triumph over adversity was also brought up as winners “Super” Dan Overton and Chris Mepstead were able to win their awards after having to recover from surgery. Prize winner Vickie Mepstead surprised everyone by taking up the microphone and presenting some awards of her own.
Coach Andrew praised Vickie for this saying, “it was a really touching moment from a considerate young lady", adding with a chuckle, "I'm just worried that she did a better job than me!”
All in all, it was a fantastic night in which all of the players involved were rewarded for the amazing season they have had.
Hannah Russell-Yarde with HC Andrew Gambrill
Jets Flag Get Set For 2010
By Adam Etheridge, Secretary, Coventry Jets AFC
The Coventry Jets senior flag team’s preparations for their 2010 BAFL campaign began in earnest at the beginning of December with a hard fought victory in the capital. Their opponents, the London Rebels, did the double over Coventry during the 2009 season but Head Coach Andy Gambrill and his side were well prepared for the fixture and came away with a deserved 19-6 victory.
Coach Gambrill was pleased with his team’s performance and was especially delighted by the play of the squads newcomers. “It’s very pleasing to see a young player develop into a promising talent for our team” stated the reigning Flag Coach of the Year, “Tik” (Tikisha McCook) has already shown that she has what it takes to be a starter for the Jets next year”. McCook’s elder brother Shadrach is a veteran for of both the senior flag and senior contact teams and contributed two interceptions and two of Coventry’s scores in the pre-season victory.
The London tournament also saw a debut for Sean Rice who showed he’s a threat on both sides of the ball with a quarterback sack as well as lining up at wide receiver. Rice has also impressed Gambrill, “Sean caught 95% of passes in his first training session where as, usually even the most gifted of players takes time to adapt to the game”. Sean’s good hands were needed in a fixture which was held on a sodden pitch with horizontal rain and in freezing conditions. 2009 Player’s Player of the Season Steve Timmins scored the Jets’ other touchdown with a reception from back up quarterback Si Mepstead.
The Jets are still recruiting for next season and Coach Gambrill is encouraging anyone to get in touch no matter what their level of skill. Between the Flag Academy and the Jets’ Senior Flag Team anyone over the age of seven of either sex can be accommodated as, not only do Coventry boast the Huskies all-girl team but the seniors feature no fewer than three female players, the most of any team in the Country. For more details of how to sign up go to www.coventryjets.co.uk.
The Coventry Jets senior flag team’s preparations for their 2010 BAFL campaign began in earnest at the beginning of December with a hard fought victory in the capital. Their opponents, the London Rebels, did the double over Coventry during the 2009 season but Head Coach Andy Gambrill and his side were well prepared for the fixture and came away with a deserved 19-6 victory.
Coach Gambrill was pleased with his team’s performance and was especially delighted by the play of the squads newcomers. “It’s very pleasing to see a young player develop into a promising talent for our team” stated the reigning Flag Coach of the Year, “Tik” (Tikisha McCook) has already shown that she has what it takes to be a starter for the Jets next year”. McCook’s elder brother Shadrach is a veteran for of both the senior flag and senior contact teams and contributed two interceptions and two of Coventry’s scores in the pre-season victory.
The London tournament also saw a debut for Sean Rice who showed he’s a threat on both sides of the ball with a quarterback sack as well as lining up at wide receiver. Rice has also impressed Gambrill, “Sean caught 95% of passes in his first training session where as, usually even the most gifted of players takes time to adapt to the game”. Sean’s good hands were needed in a fixture which was held on a sodden pitch with horizontal rain and in freezing conditions. 2009 Player’s Player of the Season Steve Timmins scored the Jets’ other touchdown with a reception from back up quarterback Si Mepstead.
The Jets are still recruiting for next season and Coach Gambrill is encouraging anyone to get in touch no matter what their level of skill. Between the Flag Academy and the Jets’ Senior Flag Team anyone over the age of seven of either sex can be accommodated as, not only do Coventry boast the Huskies all-girl team but the seniors feature no fewer than three female players, the most of any team in the Country. For more details of how to sign up go to www.coventryjets.co.uk.
#83 Shadrak McCook in Action
Coventry Jets Junior Flag
By Adam Etheridge, Secretary, Coventry Jets AFC
Photograph courtesy of Alan Steel
The Coventry Jets Flag Academy took two junior teams to Marlow as they continued with their busy preseason schedule. The veteran players enjoyed a 34-30 win in the first game, with Josh Keys scooping MVP honours for his outstanding display on offence. However, the game that the coaches really wanted to see was that of the development squad. The biggest surprise was Head Coach Andrew Gambrill, leaving the play calling duties to second year player, Tikisha McCook.
McCook had volunteered to hold extra practices to help the team, most of who have only been with the Jets for less than a month. Leading from the front, McCook threw for two touchdowns and also out-muscled two taller defenders for an interception. Shannon Haines showed great hands with several clutch catches; however it was on defence where she really shone making tackle after tackle to earn defensive MVP honours.
Making her debut at the junior level, birthday girl Precious McCook celebrated in style with four catches including a touchdown reception from her sister Tikisha. Precious’ dazzling performance won her the offensive MVP award while Tee Ngyun, in only her second game, got on the stat sheet with a sack as well as recording her first catch. Her sack brought up a fourth and long situation for Marlow that they never recovered from.
Yet another McCook rolled off the production line with Aiysha making her debut. The pacey rookie, who has astounded the coaches with her speed and route running, made a vital grab to keep a touchdown drive alive. All 5 of the McCook siblings now wear the Blue of the Coventry Jets, with Meshach playing for the Cadets and Shadrach starring for the senior flag as well as the kitted team. Captain Vickie Mepstead, noticeably faster this season, caught a pass on fourth down to give the Jets a vital first down.
Fresh from the win over the Marlow “A” team, Tim Steel scored his first touchdown for the Jets and broke up several passes on defence. The coaches have been buzzing about the rookie’s amazing ability to break on the ball. Following on from his outstanding game against Studley, Jay Beardmore snagged a couple of passes, the second one, a quick hit to the outside, he converted into a 10 yard gain with some nifty running.
“It was great day for us,” stated Andrew Gambrill, a delighted Head Coach, “the veterans were really pushed by the Marlow older boys and so it was a valuable victory. In the development game there was extensive game time for the rookies and each of them got at least one catch, which will do their confidence a world of good. Although the 30-12 final score looked like a comfortable win for Marlow, the players were clearly having too much fun to let it get them down. They also knew that they had achieved all the personal goals that they had set for themselves and are now looking forward to the new season with confidence.”
Photograph courtesy of Alan Steel
The Coventry Jets Flag Academy took two junior teams to Marlow as they continued with their busy preseason schedule. The veteran players enjoyed a 34-30 win in the first game, with Josh Keys scooping MVP honours for his outstanding display on offence. However, the game that the coaches really wanted to see was that of the development squad. The biggest surprise was Head Coach Andrew Gambrill, leaving the play calling duties to second year player, Tikisha McCook.
McCook had volunteered to hold extra practices to help the team, most of who have only been with the Jets for less than a month. Leading from the front, McCook threw for two touchdowns and also out-muscled two taller defenders for an interception. Shannon Haines showed great hands with several clutch catches; however it was on defence where she really shone making tackle after tackle to earn defensive MVP honours.
Making her debut at the junior level, birthday girl Precious McCook celebrated in style with four catches including a touchdown reception from her sister Tikisha. Precious’ dazzling performance won her the offensive MVP award while Tee Ngyun, in only her second game, got on the stat sheet with a sack as well as recording her first catch. Her sack brought up a fourth and long situation for Marlow that they never recovered from.
Yet another McCook rolled off the production line with Aiysha making her debut. The pacey rookie, who has astounded the coaches with her speed and route running, made a vital grab to keep a touchdown drive alive. All 5 of the McCook siblings now wear the Blue of the Coventry Jets, with Meshach playing for the Cadets and Shadrach starring for the senior flag as well as the kitted team. Captain Vickie Mepstead, noticeably faster this season, caught a pass on fourth down to give the Jets a vital first down.
Fresh from the win over the Marlow “A” team, Tim Steel scored his first touchdown for the Jets and broke up several passes on defence. The coaches have been buzzing about the rookie’s amazing ability to break on the ball. Following on from his outstanding game against Studley, Jay Beardmore snagged a couple of passes, the second one, a quick hit to the outside, he converted into a 10 yard gain with some nifty running.
“It was great day for us,” stated Andrew Gambrill, a delighted Head Coach, “the veterans were really pushed by the Marlow older boys and so it was a valuable victory. In the development game there was extensive game time for the rookies and each of them got at least one catch, which will do their confidence a world of good. Although the 30-12 final score looked like a comfortable win for Marlow, the players were clearly having too much fun to let it get them down. They also knew that they had achieved all the personal goals that they had set for themselves and are now looking forward to the new season with confidence.”
Andrew Gambrill shars a half time joke with his squad