Ex Inverclyde Sharks American football player Gary Clark has signed for the West Coast Trojans for the remainder of the 2007 campaign. Gary has just returned from America where he has just finished his second season playing ball at Division III Lakeland College in Wisconsin.
The six foot four defensive end has been an integral part of the Muskies' defensive line this season with 24 solo tackles and 9 assisted tackles for 33 total. He was also second on the team in tackles for a loss, racking up 40 yards for a loss on nine tackles, and third on the team in sacks with seven. The Scotland native's hard-fought efforts could make him a prime candidate for All-Illini Badger Football Conference recognition, which he achieved in 2007
Gary had his first taste of practice on Tuesday evening and was impressed with the system Head Coach McNey has installed both sides of the ball and his fellow team mates.
On signing for the Trojans Gary commented, “I have been following the season and have been exchanging emails with coach McNey, practice was good tonight and to be asked to play in the backfield is awesome. Also there are about 8-10 ex Sharks players and coaches playing for the Trojans so I feel at home with these guys”
On the up coming games he commented “I am looking forward to the games, I have only ever seen a few Pirates games so I don’t really know what to expect, but I am ready to play ball if and when Coach McNey puts me in”
Head Coach McNey is very happy with the new signing and believes he can bring a lot to the team. McNey commented, “Gary showed tonight why he was an All Conference Defensive End, for a big guy he is very fast and I know he used to play full back with the Sharks and tonight he showed he has not lost anything playing in the offensive backfield. He will be a force and a superb blocker for Jordan Falconer and Jon Sutherland on his return from playing ball in Spain. When you have someone of his ability you have to use him as and when required, he is young and very excited to be playing for the Trojans. I have not got any worries about him playing both ways in the BAFL. This is yet another great signing by the Trojans which can only help with our drive to play top level football in the BAFL”
The Trojan next home game against the Redditch Arrows will be Gary’s first game in Trojans colours. This game will be played at King George V Playing Fields, kick off at 2.30pm
West Coast Trojans run teams for age groups of 14 years and upwards. Anyone interested in playing, helping or supporting the team should contact Trojans General Manager, Drew McCabe on 07831 180 457 or visit us at www.west-coast-trojans.com.