London’s leading American football side is hoping to hike its way to European glory this season. The London Blitz, based in Islington, head to their first league game against Watford Cheetahs on Wednesday as reigning champions.
Club chairman Robin Pierce said he was glad his side has had a strong preseason.
He said: “We’ve recruited well in the off-season with 30 confirmed recruits and players are in now in full swing with their strength and conditioning programmes.
“As national champions we’re finding football fans are a lot more interested in playing for us.”
Last season they cruised unbeaten to the league title and reached the semi-finals of the European Federation of American Football Cup, Europe’s second-highest level of club competition.
Pierce said: “It was our first outing in Europe so we were thrilled to reach the semi finals. Our intent now is to go one step further and reach the final.”
He added: “Our five year plan as a club is to win the EFAF Cup and the EuroBowl which is the equivalent of the Champions League.”
To qualify for the Eurobowl would pitch the Blitz against Europe’s finest sides from the likes of Austria and Germany who have a host of semi-professional clubs. “Those countries don’t have any contact sports apart from American Football,” said Pierce. “It fills the niche that rugby fulfils in this country so I don’t see clubs turning pro here anytime soon. We just don’t have the same level of funding.”
Pierce is full of confidence ahead of the new season. “I think we have a great chance of retaining the national championship and going far in Europe but that is in the hands of the gods,” he said. “Every season you start with high expectations but a series of key injuries could throw it all up in the air.”
If you’re interested in trying out for the London Blitz contact Head Coach Mark Moss on 07946 442014.
(Photo courtesy of London Blitz)
