Photo By Senior Airman Nigel Sandridge | The Bury St. Edmunds Saints celebrate their first-ever 19-13 victory over the Essex...... read more read more
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ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- The Bury St. Edmunds Saints laced up their cleats against the Essex Spartans in the kick-off game of their first season at Robin Field, Thurston, England April 13.
The newly-formed Saints are an integrated American-style football team consisting of U.S. military members from Royal Air Forces Lakenheath and Mildenhall, and British players.
"I heard about the team having tryouts in the local paper, and since I already play rugby, I decided to try it out," said Dan Garrard, UK citizen and team running back. "Everybody really looks out for each other, and the more experienced guys have no problem teaching us. It feels like we've been a team forever."
"A lot of guys in my shop are on the team, so it really made it easy for me to come out and support them," said Tech. Sgt. Ryan Wade, 48th Component Maintenance Squadron egress systems craftsman, as he cheered on the Saints with 7-year-old Torrion Haywood, chanting, "let's go defense!"
With the Saints being the closest American-style football team to the RAF bases, Airmen found it easier to find information about the club.
"I really missed playing football, so when I found out that they were building a team so close to the base, I jumped at the idea," explained Senior Airman Scottie Curry, 48th Component Maintenance Squadron hydraulics back shop journeyman.
Powering through all four quarters with a strong offense and even stronger defense, the Saints beat the Spartans 19-13.
"Essex played really hard, but we pulled it off in the last minute," explained Head Coach Chris Wallis. "It's a pleasure to be a part of this team where everyone works so well together. We look forward to winning as many games as possible this season."
With more than 55 members on the roster, Coach Wallis says that the team is always looking for more.
"There're no tryouts for the team; commitment, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn will earn you a spot," said Coach Wallis. "We're a pretty big team, but there's always room for more dedicated members."
For more information on the Saints and how to join the team, find them on Facebook as Bury St. Edmunds Saints American Football Club.
| Date Taken: | 04.13.2014 |
| Date Posted: | 05.09.2014 06:40 |
| Story ID: | 129281 |
| Location: | BRANDON, SFK, GB |
| Web Views: | 27 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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