After a slow start to their 2009 campaign the Coventry Cassidy Jets have continued to strengthen their squad. Alex Chigbo and Daniel Smallman-Gough have both recently signed and become the latest in a long line of players to make the jump from the Birmingham Bulls to the Midlands powerhouse.
Chigbo is an accomplished defensive end and offers 11 years of experience in both Senior and University football. He'll slot in at left end and create a fearsome partnership with 2008 Defensive Lineman of the Year Kevin Mills. The two powerful ends will be capably spelled by youngsters Richard Carey and Jon Dwyer at a position that once looked to be a concern for the Jets.
Head Coach Gerry McManus has been a long time admirer powerful end "Alex first caught my eye when we played the Bulls a couple of seasons ago at the Butts. He's a strong and quick defensive end who comes off the edge hard and fast. He has an admirable work ethic which will help him improve an already impressive all round game.
Smallman-Gough will see plenty of time at his preferred position of free safety. A team mate of Chigbo's at both the Bulls and the Derby Braves, Smallman-Gough adds yet more youth and speed to a defensive backfield that already features Adam Biggs, James Luce and Dominic Olney. His signing has allowed Jeremy Simms to focus exclusively on playing wide receiver.
On the signing McManus commented "we are now getting a good blend of experienced older players with the right mix of young players coming through from BUAFL. Both guys have settled in really well and bought into the Jets mindset of winning football games and doing so with a lot of style and fun".