The Coventry Jets are actively recruiting new players of all ages for their 2012 campaigns. Newly appointed General Manager, Adam Biggs, boasted that “the Jets have the structure, coaches and experience in place to offer any new recruit the chance to play Kitted or Flag (non contact) American Football.”
A former Great Britain Lions star, Biggs continued “The Jets operate three kitted teams; Youth from the age of 14, Junior from 16 and Seniors over 18. You don’t have to be huge or possess great speed as there are positions within the team that suit all shapes and sizes. Kit can also be provided.”
Flag Academy Head, Andrew Gambrill also noted that “on TV, you see the familiar face of American Football, the kitted version. However, there is an alternative, called Flag Football. This is based on five-a-side and is an ideal way of learning the basics of the game. The Jets, again, operate three teams; Cadets, Junior and Senior. Any new player, boy or girl, from the age of six would be most welcome. For younger recruits, this is the perfect way to get started, if so inclined, you can try the contact version later.” Biggs concurred, adding “Indeed, as a new recruit, to any of the age groups or disciplines you fall into, you will be given expert tuition to develop your skills and enjoy this fantastic sport.”
The Jets, who recently announced their new Coaching line-up and backroom staff as well as a new venue and logo, won the British National Title with a thrilling victory over four time Champions the London Blitz in 2008. The Flag Academy has had its share of success as well, winning the Cadet title in 2005 and 2009 as well as the Junior title in 2010. Back in November five members of the Junior Flag team were honoured with invites to their competitions All-Star game.
Held at Coventry’s Longford Park Tina Nguyen, Paul Peters and Josh Keys starred for the Northern All-Stars in their 45-0 victory. Simran Dhaliwal and Aiysha McCook also had an impact in the game as alternates. Former Detroit Lions linebacker and Sky Sports analyst Zack Follett was an interested spectator on the day as the Jets’ players showed that they should form a very competitive squad in 2012.
2012 will mark a new dawn for the Jets, with Paul Rickhuss set to take over the reigns as Head Coach from the retired Gerry McManus. With off the field matters ticking over nicely and a strong rookie recruitment class already onboard Biggs, who doubles as Junior Kitted Head Coach, is focused on bringing through more new blood. “We lose almost 20 players that have graduated to the Senior team this year so it’s crucial that we bring through as many young players to make up the shortfall.”
“We narrowly missed out on the playoffs last season due to a slow start and I want to build on the momentum that we gathered towards the end of 2011. All six teams throughout the club are always on the lookout for new players as it’s a constant process but I truly feel that we are now entering the most exciting period of the clubs short, but storied, history. This is the perfect time to try something new.”
If you’re interested in joining the Coventry Jets then please call Andrew Gambrill (Flag) on 07766 131598 or Adam Biggs (Kitted) on 07815 440046 to find out more. Alternatively, you can visit the club’s new website www.covjets.com. You can also follow the Jets on Twitter at www.twitter.com/CoventryJets.