Edinburgh Napier Knights u19s going for gold after record-breaking season
Edinburgh Napier Knights Under 19s will clash with the London Blitz in the American Football Britbowl Final on Saturday 6 September at Butts Park Arena, Coventry.
While most students have been enjoying an extended summer break, Edinburgh Napier’s Youth American Football teams have been recording a record-breaking season.
The Knights reached the UK final after recording an undefeated regular season which saw them crowned the Kings of the North, dominating the Lancashire Buccaneers 57-14 in the semi-final played at Meggetland Stadium.
Knights’ Head Coach Sam Stoddart-Durning said: “I am so proud of the effort, desire and commitment from the players.
“The team has surpassed expectations, and it is a huge achievement for all the young people involved. It’s a credit to their hard work and dedication. The final in Coventry is going to be a showcase event and we want to put on the best performance we can.
“Travelling to the final, with overnight accommodation, comes at a cost, but the players and their families have rallied to the occasion, and we raised £2500 to cover costs through a Go Fund Me campaign.”
Players to watch include current Napier students Charlie Rattray (running back), and Siraj Abu-Shaaban (defensive tackle). The team also boasts Great Britain youth caps Jonny Taylor (quarterback) and Finlay Allan (defensive back).
The Edinburgh Napier Knights Youth American Football teams were founded at Sighthill in 2017. Coached by current students and graduates from Edinburgh Napier University, the team was created to integrate the University with the local community, with the aim to engage young people in sport, increase their self-esteem, and improve their quality of life in the local community.
The project has been an outstanding success both on and off the field with players continuing to further and higher education and graduates progressing on to professional teams across the globe including the prestigious NFL Academy. The team boasts more than 150 players across four sections across Varsity, under 19, under 16, and under 13 Flag.
The game will be broadcast live on YouTube by Onside TV, with the game kicking off at 12 noon.