The Staffordshire Surge American Football Club has received a boost to the start of their preseason training with a grant from Sports Relief. The grant, for £950, is for helmets, shoulder pads and training equipment and will help the coaching staff develop new players joining the club.
Manager John Farmiloe said “With the progress made by the club’s youth players, its strong connections with the Staffordshire Stallions college team and the return of quarterback Richard Large, the Surge are looking forward to an exciting year for the club.”
In preparation for the 2007 season, which starts in April, the senior and junior kitted teams have returned to training on Sundays at Northwood Stadium, Keelings Road, Stoke on Trent. The Surge are currently recruiting new players to strengthen the squad in their push for the Divisional title, with the aim of making it all the way to the National Finals held at Sheffield’s Don Valley Stadium in September. The club is also looking for non-playing volunteers to assist the club in the numerous off field roles needed to run a successful club. For more information contact team manager John Farmiloe on 01782 619089 or visit the club website www.teamsurge.com.
At the recent clubs Awards Evening held at the Limelight Club, linebacker Adam Steele was recognized for his outstanding contribution in getting the team into the post season playoffs. Adam won a trophy as the Coaches Most Valuable Player (MVP) and was voted Team MVP, in addition to ‘Maniac of the Year’, by his team mates.
Linemen Paul Cox and Neil Moore received awards for Offensive and Defensive MVP for their play in the trenches. Gideon Beddows won Offensive lineman of the year for his competitive spirit and commitment over the season, and running back Martin Tranter was rewarded with the Most Improved Player trophy.