Welcome to Oxford Saints Women

Article by Oxford Saints

Over the past few weeks the Saints have been working closely to establish a new opportunity to expand American Football in Oxfordshire.

Following huge support and enthusiasm from the Witney Angels rugby club, we are now thrilled to offer training sessions for women who wish to give this exciting and growing sport a try.

First Training Session

On Tuesday evening 10th May, we’ll be hosting the very first Oxford Saints Women’s session. This will focus on introducing players to the club and we’ll be teaching the basics of the game from throwing, catching, footwork and other foundation skills.

The women’s team will sit within the already well established Oxford Saints infrastructure and will be fully supported by the club in terms of logistics, marketing and staff resources.

Chairman Andrew Peart: “The Saints are delighted to support our new women’s team. We’ve seen phenomenal levels of enthusiasm from potential players. We’re fully committed to doing everything we can to ensure this enthusiasm transfers into team success."

The Saints will be creating opportunities for the women’s team to compete in both flag and contact competitions.

The inaugural session for Oxford Saints Women will be held at the club’s new home venue, under the floodlights at Tilsley Park.

Witney Angels

One of the driving members behind the new initiative is Joséphine Ellen, captain for the Witney Angels. Joséphine reached out to the Saints and told the club how much she and her fellow team mates want the opportunity to play American Football.

The Saints set plans in motion quickly and invited representatives from the Witney Angels to meet with Saints staff and observe the senior team in training. Less than a week later, the first session had been planned and booked.

To further demonstrate their willingness to get started, Joséphine and Co bought themselves some footballs and held their own training session, sending a photo to the Saints to show how keen they are to launch official sessions.

Joséphine Ellen: “I got in touch with the Oxford Saints after realising that, like me, most of my rugby team have always dreamt about playing American Football. We’ve never felt so welcome. Not only am I looking forward to learning the game, I can’t wait to see the first women’s squad run out onto the pitch in their new Saints jerseys!”

Input From BAFA – British American Football Association

Following very productive conversations with Jim Messenger, BAFA Head of Womens Football Development, progress is well underway to grow the team with a ‘Foundation Day’ being planned for 2016 also.

This will see experienced coaches and hopefully players for the GB Lions program coming down to Oxford to put on a great session for women looking to get started with American Football.

Jim Messenger - BAFA Head of Women Development: “Women’s American football is rapidly spreading to nations around the World. The growth of teams and number of players in Britain has been phenomenal and from almost nothing three years ago we have now overtaken other nations to be ranked No2 in Europe.

From Scotland to the South coast new women’s teams are popping-up and we are very excited to see the launch of a team for Oxfordshire.

The Oxford Saints has a proud tradition and a great reputation within British American football, I am sure the Saints’ women’s team will be a great success.”

Coaching Vacancies

With some of the coaching staff already appointed from members of the senior team, the Oxford Saints are now looking for a passionate individual to take on the role of Head Coach.

Ideal candidates will have experience coaching American Football in the UK and should have the appropriate BAFCA qualifications. Previous involvement with a women’s team would be a bonus.

The successful candidate will have the support of the Oxford Saints committee and several assistant coaches to work alongside. There will also be opportunities for the new head coach to expand the coaching line-up further if desired.

The Saints will also be looking to arrange for a BAFCA Level 1 course to be staged in Oxford, which will help build the community of qualified coaches across Oxfordshire.

If you are interested in coaching please email coaching@oxfordsaints.com

Getting Started

Are you looking to get involved with the Oxford Saints Women’s team? We’ll be looking to offer non-contact flag football (ages 16+) and contact football (ages 17+).

Contacting the Saints

If you have any questions or would like to know more you can send us a message, email us at women@oxfordsaints.com or contact us through our official Facebook page www.facebook.com/oxfordsaints

Development Day Countdown Part 4 - Q&A with Louise Lee

After weeks of prep, and our own week of countdown articles, the day has finally arrived. If the day is anywhere near as good as the effort put in by those who have organised it, it will surely be a success. Well done to Coach Andrew Gambrill and his team.

The last in our series of Q&A’s is with Louise Lee, captain of the GB Women’s flag team.

1. What was it like playing in the Euro Championships last summer?

The buzz surrounding us created an exciting atmosphere, making it a trip none of us will ever forget. From the build-up beforehand, to the support we received throughout the tournament, everything just made the whole experience extra special.

Getting to play under the Great Britain name, as cheesy as it sounds, is such an exhilarating feeling and is something none of us will ever take for granted. You get so wrapped up in the football bubble for that week that I forgot I had a job or a life back home, it is that intense. And every feeling is magnified so the team went through every possible emotion together. The adrenaline from the games just adds to intensity. It felt great to get out onto the field and just play after all the training, headshots and organising!

2. Despite a slow start the team got better in each game - how and why did that happen?

It is totally obvious what happened in our first game, we all froze. We all got up in the morning and had no idea how to handle playing for Great Britain so we went out onto the field as total rookies, massively under prepared for the nerves that we experienced. It was a good game to get out of the way! As we progressed, we found our comfort zones. We identified what worked and what didn't and just developed a much more fluid game.

Once we started getting points on the board, and defending tough drives, the level of confidence grew exponentially. We certainly ironed out a few creases and we have a solid foundation to move forward from. It is only natural to take some time to gel as a group, players and coaches together.

3. Did you find there was any added pressure being Captain?

Sometimes I actually felt more pressure due to people worrying too much about me. I am the sort of person who likes to keep busy, keep things ticking over and generally oversee everything that is happening, which allows me to keep a track of any issues as they come up. So when I was advised to take some 'me time', I automatically put too much pressure on myself by delving too deep into my game and also felt very disconnected with the group, which was overwhelming when reintegrating.

Obviously, it didn't feel good when we had the big losses at the start, and sometimes I did have to get involved in some tricky issues like substitutions (which is the hardest thing ever!) but I was never disappointed with the team and I was always superbly supported by my team mates throughout. I suppose there were added pressures, but I am actually quite grateful to have had some distractions. Added to which, nothing will beat captaining these ladies!

4. With the game getting bigger (more teams/players) this can only be good for GB in the future. Where do you see the game in 5 years?

Definitely only good things for GB! As a bit of an oldie, who was playing when there were barely women's teams to play against, I can safely say that more involvement has led to brilliant levels of competition and will lead to even better things in the future. I am definitely an advocate for a league system, to complement the current tournament based series we have.

I believe it will lead to more skilled and tactical longer games, more preparation time and some tense league following! Back before the opal series, the Warwick women loved traveling to other locations to meet ladies from other teams, and socialise, as well as play a game or two. If some kind of league could be established, geography dependent, I think it would be beneficial for the game itself, as well as connecting players from around the country.

5. How are you personally preparing for the new season?

I worked very hard for the last Opal Series by working on my cardio fitness and strength training as I wasn't able to train with Warwick very much (having relocated to London). As for this year, well, I have been in Australia since Christmas so training is very difficult. The weather is a big stumbling block for someone like me who isn't used to the heat, but it is good practice for future championships in hot countries!! However, I am trying hard to maintain my fitness, and my partner, who fancies himself as a bit of a coach, has been helping me with my technical skills. Once I am back in the UK, I will be back into regular training to get ready for the new season.

6. What advice would you give for someone new wanting to try the sport?

My advice would be to not panic about any aspect of the game. It can take a while to find your skill, or feel comfortable in a particular role, but there is something for absolutely everyone. And if you're anything like me, you may end up playing a position you had no idea you would love! In addition to that, I would recommend any rookies to get as much game experience as possible. It is the best way to learn, in my opinion.

With the Wolverines, we would always organise rookie games against local teams (Coventry for us) so that new players could experience the game at pace, but without the pressure of an Opal tournament structure. Then we could pause the game when necessary to explain anything that wasn't clear. Theory is a good thing to know to understand the logic of the game, but putting into practice makes it easier to visualise. It won't take you long to fall in love with the game.

7. What are your long term ambitions within the game?

The Great Britain team is a massive priority for me. The men's team has set a good precedent for us and we certainly aspire to follow in their footsteps and really establish ourselves. We have a huge amount of talent here in the UK and I want to make sure we capitalise on that and create the best team in Europe. That means also focusing on the development of the game, which I enjoy being involved with, whether it be at a player or board level.

For me personally, I hope to start my own team so that I can train regularly and locally (as much as I would love to be a Wolverine forever!) and open the game up to a whole new demographic of people. I can't ever imagine not playing football, so I am very much looking forward to seeing how it develops!

Development Day Countdown Part 3 - Q&A with Jade Archibald

One day away from the BAFA Women’s Flag Development and for those involved the preparation has been thorough and exact. Those words can also carry true to the play and mind set of a player/coach that has been a constant fixture amongst the Women’s flag set up, and beyond.

Today we thank Jade Archibald of the Northants Titans, a Coach, QB, CB, Centre for answering a few questions for us.

 

1. What was your first game experience like?

Wow, what a rush!  I remember it vividly.  At the time I was playing in a mixed team, and only 1 of 2 women, amongst a tribe of men.  It was absolutely awesome.  Stepping onto the field, to start warm up, I was immensely nervous, so many self-doubting thoughts went through my head ‘what if I missed a tackle, what if I let the team down….’  I managed to pull myself together and as soon as the whistle went I settled into the Middle Linebacker role! 

I can only describe it as the most invigorating 40 minutes of my life, and from that moment, I knew I was absolutely hooked!  I managed to hold my own, despite being outsized, I wanted more!  And couldn't wait for our next game day!

2. From that experience, what advice would you give to those wanting to take up the game?

If you don’t try, you will never know!  I was really unfit, I had never played a hand ball sport, (wow that’s a mouth full) I was into hockey, swimming and cross country running.  My first ever session with the Northants Titans was terrifying....but the Coaches were patient, and soon I started to get it.   My fitness improved, and my sense of belonging was overwhelming.   I had joined a team that really cared, that wanted to have fun, and I felt like I was a part of something bigger than myself.

This is a very far reaching feeling, as the culture of American Football, is such a family feel, everyone is so passionate about growing the sport, about building something that is truly sustainable for the future.  I am immensely proud to be a part of the footballing community!  We are making things happen, and we building a legacy for future athletes!

3. Describe your current role within the Women's game setup?

Well, I am a little bit of a sucker for variety and I LOVE me some structure and organisation, so here goes: I am a player first and foremost.  I play QB mainly, as well as Cornerback.  Recently I have been working on my Centre skills.  I, along with a few other Coaches, started the Northants Titans Women's Team, which I now Coach and Lead the team.  I also have a BAFA Role, which supports the setup and organisation of the Opal Series. I am obsessed about growing ladies flag in the UK, so tend to get involved with BAFA behind the scenes to bring things together.

Later this summer the Northants Titans will be hosting the first Summer Series Tournament, as a further opportunity for ladies across the UK to play competitively (in the not so freezing months.

4. How far do you think the Women's game can go in the UK?

Without a shadow of a doubt ALL THE WAY, from being part of our schools curriculum's, to running a Women’s league, equal to or greater than the mixed league at the moment.  More players, more games, more fun!  I have been a part of the sport for 3 short years, and in that time the number of players has almost doubled, new teams are developing every year, across both the flag format and contact.  It's a great time to be a part of women's football in the UK.

The foundations have been set incredibly well, by our very own Coach Jim Messenger and Coach Andrew Gambrill.  The momentum of the sport is about to reach tipping point, and we just need to be ready to embrace developing teams, support them to learn the sport, and provide a competitive route for all players.

Last year we saw the first ever GB Kitted and GB Flag Teams being selected, this was a significant moment in the sports history, and signifies to those getting involved at the grass-roots, that the sky is the limit, if you have the drive and motivation to get there!

Base on the current growth in Women's Football, I believe we will see continued growth over the next few years, which will change the way we play today, with further focus at the grass-roots level, to ensure that we have a healthy pipeline of competitive players coming through.

5. What would you change to spread the word about the Women's game?

There is nothing in particular I would change, but there are a few observations that I have made in the last few years. For me, as a predominantly flag player, the time of year the Flag Women’s League is played is in the coldest of winter…. Now this makes you one hell of a tough player!  If you can play in gale force winds, sleet and very heavy rain, you are ‘BAD ASS’, that said, for Rookie or Developing teams, this can add extra complexity.  A simple change to when the Ladies Season is held, may be the answer. This will also allow women who play other spots, soccer or rugby to enter into the Footballing world, as these skills are very transferable across spots, as most other spots are played during winter months.  This may give the sport an extra boost!

I also believe that every team, every Coach has a duty and a responsibility to support further growth, either through their local sports teams, universities or communities.  It’s up to us, to support Rookie teams, to show them the ropes, and to set them up for success.  The BAFA organised Development Days, are a great way of introducing new players in a safe and structured environment.  BUT we CAN DO MORE. 

6. Who personally, has been the biggest influence on your game?

This is a really really tough one! There are so many people, that have shaped the player and Coach I am today, my crazy husband Dan, for inviting me to my first ever session, without him, I would never have even thought to get involved.  Coach Gambrill for inviting me to take part in my first ever ladies tournament, at which time I was even more hooked!  Which subsequently lead to The Titans starting to explore the concept of our very own Women’s Team.  That said, the most overwhelming thing about Women's Flag Football is the players, the sense of community, the friendships and FUN!  It keeps me coming back week in, week out.

7. How would you encourage someone who was unsure if this is the sport for them?

From my experience of coaching rookie players, who have never picked up a football in their life, or seen a game, it’s all about baby steps.  I have a few ladies in this very position at the moment, and it’s all about positivity and confidence!  I firmly believe that anyone could be great at playing football, with the right mind-set, and the right fundamentals.

I like to work alongside my players, supporting them every step of the way, breaking things down and building things back up, so they understand how certain tasks are executed and their role to play within the team.

For me it’s about really knowing each player as individual's, understanding how they learn, and then adapting myself to get the best out of them.  People are different, and therefore I know I need to flex my style to suit their needs.

I am a firm believer of building trust, a team that trust each other, will excel on the field, I tend to promote a sense of community and fun, so that we can break down a few barriers and get to work!  It’s a really safe environment, and reinforcing that is very important to me.

Development Day Countdown Part 2 - Q&A with Phoebe Schecter

Our countdown to the BAFA Women’s flag development day this Saturday continues, and today we are fortunate enough to have a few questions answered by one of the veterans of the game here. For a long time now Phoebe Schecter has been one of the leading lights both on and off the field. Leading by example she has become in some ways a perfect unofficial ambassador for the Women’s game.

1. What is your current role within the game aside from playing?

My current roles are: Head Coach Staffordshire Surge Women's team and Special Teams Co-ordinator for Staffordshire Surge men.  I also assist with the GB Women's team s&c programmes and fitness advisor.

2. Recently you helped out with a development day with the Staffordshire Surge. How did that come about?

I ended up taking over the Surge women's team from Sarah Jauncey, back in February.  I spoke to the Surge ladies and offered them an intro to contact session, to decide if we will continue with flag, or perhaps progress to contact. This is the girl's team, and I am happy to support them whether they decide to play contact or flag. I had an outline of the day in my head, and knew just the coaching staff for the job as well. I thought it would be a powerful experience for the ladies and the Academy to be taught by women with such experience and all with GB honors. I was so proud to stand on the field with a completely female coaching staff, teaching the next generation.

3. Being a senior member of GB squads, does this put pressure on you to perform?

I would be lying if I said that people don't have certain expectations of me to perform. However, I don't put pressure on myself when it comes down to practice or the game.  I put in the hard work outside of practice, i.e., workouts, playbook, nutritionally, rest, prehab, etc. When it comes to game day, I rely on my instincts, because when I am on that field, everything other than those 22 players are blocked out.

4. What was your personal experience of the Euro Championships last summer?

It was a well organised, professional and unbelievable experience, that I feel honored to have been a part of.  The atmosphere was contagious and you couldn't help but be excited to be there. Our coaching staff and team were all made to feel like complete professionals. The entire week, we didn't have to think of anything other than our job at hand. Women's American Football is so unique, as at the end of the tournament, all the teams gathered together to celebrate the experience together as friends, not rivals.

5. Which type of game do you prefer, flag or contact?

That is a tough one! I love contact and everything about it; I wish I had this sport when I was younger! That is not to say there isn't a place for flag, I really enjoy flag as well! I think it is great for fitness and to teach the game, plus work on your fundamentals. At this moment in my life though, contact is superior. I couldn't imagine not putting on my kit, running onto the field, and tackling someone at full speed.

6. With Women coaches making progress in the States, is this something that interests you in pursuing?

I am actually coaching now, which I absolutely love! It is so rewarding and I am so fortunate to be able to give back to the game. It was a bit of a challenge at first, to change my mind set from player to coach, but now I love to see the ladies and men's progression week in and week out.

7. Your personal ambitions for 2016?

I would love to make the GB squad again for our game against Spain. We are just coming off the back of the close, of our domestic season, where the Birmingham Lions have won the national title for the 3rd year running. I also am going to start playing with the Surge Adult team, as a bit of a challenge for myself. I want to continue to help this sport grow for women in this country, whether they play or coach, we need both.

8. Any advice for potentials players wanting to start playing?

Come down and give it a try, you won't be disappointed! There is a position for everyone and we are a hugely diverse and welcoming community. You don't need to know anything about the sport, most of us didn't when we started. If you work hard and give it 100%, that is all that people ask.  If you are looking for a team near you or upcoming events, check out BAFA Women's Football on Facebook. I can't promise that you won't fall in love with this sport.

Development Day Countdown Part 1 - Q&A with Sarah Jauncey

This Saturday sees another landmark day in the growth of the Women’s game. Andrew Gambrill, the Head Coach of the GB Women’s flag team has put together – with the help of others – the first development day in Chorley. This is sure to be a huge success as it not only gives players a chance to go through the motions on the field but also to test their skills beyond the gridiron. The “x’s and o’s” will come under scrutiny and players will get to know more about why they are running a certain route or why it’s important to keep that block moving.

Over the next few days we have a series of interviews with key members of the coaching set-up and players that will be involved in this fantastic day of learning.

Firstly we have the hugely experienced Sarah Jauncey.

Photo courtesy of Geoff White

 1. What is your current role, and how long have you been doing it?

Currently I am Head Coach with University of Chester, QB Coach with GB Ladies Flag, and Coach with BAFA Ladies Development, Co-Ordinator of American Football for Female Coaching Network. I have been coaching football for 5yrs, coaching in general sport for 24yrs.

2. Within this role what gives you most satisfaction?

The coaching. It's very rewarding watching a player grow and become the best that they can be through guidance and practise. Also being able to communicate and bring together other female coaches from all over the world, whilst raising the profile of women’s football.

3. How did you first get involved in the sport?

I had watched the game, and got hooked. I contacted my local club (which I found on the BAFA website), and they invited me down to a session. I spent a few weeks observing and then started taking the warm ups. From there I was mentored by my then HC Alan Winters, I progressed and when I left the club in 2014 I was Special Teams Co-Ordinator. I moved to Staffordshire where I took on the role of STC, with the team gaining a spot in the playoffs last season. I was given the Head Coachship of the Uni 3 years back, and this year we have made very positive steps to the BUCS league, a very exciting time!

4. What was the biggest obstacle for you?

To be completely honest, I have never really had any obstacles. Everyone in the game has always been very welcoming. There has been some funny obstacles, as I coach both the male and female players in both tackle and flag, asking a player in full kit to run at me whilst I demonstrate a certain skill - and the player looking at me as if I am crazy......I am only 5' tall, so asking a 6'+ guy in full kit to do this normally raises a few eyebrows!

Photo courtesy of Sophie Robinson

5. Where do you think the Women's game will be in 5 years’ time?

It is growing year on year. The women’s game is still very much in its infancy, compared to the men’s game - but year on year both Sapphire and Opal series sees new teams, and Diamond league last year saw up to 80 female players at one session. So we are 3-4yrs in, so it can really only go one way - forward. It will constantly be playing catch-up to the men’s game, as that has been around for over 30yrs in the UK so they have a head start!  As for the coaching side of the game, BAFCA are qualifying more ladies every session, so eventually having a female coach (or 2/3/4/5) will not be so unusual.

6. What are your personal goals for the future?

To keep going! I have reached as high as I currently can, but that does not mean that I will stop!!

7. If you could change one thing in the Women's set up, what would it be?

As it is, the women's set up is a great environment. Conducive to the growth and betterment of the game. As it progresses I see more females coaching females - as there is a plethora of talent coming through the players. We are not at a place yet where there is a progression from playing to coaching, (as there is in the men’s game), but it will happen. Looking towards the future, a junior/youth league for girls would be a great addition!!

8. Any advice for women wanting to take up the sport?

To steal a well-known phrase.....Just Do It! There is tackle and flag out there so there is something for everyone. Give it a try, go along to one of the BAFA Development Days where you can try it in a secure and safe environment. You never know what you can do until you try..... These Girls Definitely Can!

Sapphire Series Round 4 Results - Lions, Wolves and Warriors gain titles

Images supplied by Andy Neale - Whizzyfingers Photography

DIVISION ONE

The 2016 BAFA Women’s Sapphire Series came to an exciting conclusion this past Saturday with 2 new champions crowned and an old yet familiar one retaining their title. Each year the stakes get higher as more players take up the game, and new teams taking to the field, but if ever there was a model of consistency the Birmingham Lions have the formula.

They have set the standard over the last couple of years and this year proved no different going unbeaten over their 7 games to once more top the standings and take away the Sapphire crown for the third time.

The teams behind them were involved in a very close chase for second place that ended in a playoff. The Hertfordshire Tornadoes edging out Leeds Carnegie.

Derby Braves salvaged some pride on the final day of the competition with two wins, but as always its not always about the on field competition but the journey for all the athletes involved. They will be enthused by the great coaching and finding new colleagues over the last two months or so.

DERBY BRAVES 14 MANCHESTER TITANS 0

LEEDS CARNEGIE 56 HERTFORDSHIRE TORNADOES 20

MANCHESTER TITANS 2 DERBY BRAVES 7

BIRMINGHAM LIONS 49 LEEDS CARNEGIE 18

2^nd place playoff – HERTFORDSHIRE TORNADOES 4 LEEDS CARNEGIE 2

SERIES MVP – ROBYN SEWARD – LEEDS, Runners up – HANNAH PYE – Birmingham, FERN ELLIOT – Manchester.

DIVISON TWO NORTH

In Division Two North the games were to decide the placings from 1-4. After the 3 rounds the team were split as 1v2 add 3v4. The game through the Series had been close in the main and therefore it was a shock to see n open game in the 3/4 playoff. Chester winning a high scoring encounter. Edinburgh were to secure the title however in a keenly fought game with Teeside Steelers. All groups of players will have learnt immensely from this division, and will be chomping at the bit for the next set of games.

3/4 Playoff – CHESTER ROMANS 90 EAST KILBRIDE PIRATES 76

1/2 Playoff – EDINBURGH WOLVES 26 TEESIDE STEELERS 7

MVP – RACHAEL MOODY – Edinburgh, Runners-up – HELENA LASOK-SMITH – Chester.

DIVISION TWO SOUTH

The free scoring London Warriors continued their ways through to the end of the day and Series with another two shutout wins. They have been a cut above this year and will surely be eyeing up the transition to 7v7 to have a shot at the teams in Division One. That of course is for another day. Wembley proved to be the closest runner up in the standings, after being beat by the Warriors they rebounded enough to beat the Spears. Sandwell had a strong start beating Portsmouth but hopes of finishing second were extinguished by the Warriors.

LONDON WARRIORS 30 WEMBLEY STALLIONS 0

PORTSMOUTH DESTROYERS 20 ICENI SPEARS 0

SANDWELL STEELERS 25 PORTSMOUTH DESTROYERS 6

WEMBLEY STALLIONS 26 ICENI SPEARS 2

SANDWELL STEELERS 0 LONDON WARRIORS 45

MVP – SYDNEY GREEN – Sandwell, Runners-up – CHRISTINA IBIRONKE – Warriors, ANGIE SOWERBY – Wembley

FINAL STANDINGS

DIVISION ONE                                   F              A             PTS

BIRMINGHAM LIONS                                     295         34           24

HERTS.TORNADOES                                        236         231         18

LEEDS CARNEGIE                                              218         179         18

DERBY BRAVES                                                  47           244         10

MANCHESTER TITANS                                    50           168         8

                                                                               

DIVISION TWO NORTH                                                                 

TEESIDE STEELERS                                            96           20           16

EDINBURGH WOLVES                                    61           37           13

CHESTER ROMANS                                          138         94           11

EAST KILBRIDE PIRATES                                 28           172         8

                                                                               

DIVISION TWO SOUTH                                                                 

LONDON WARRIORS                                      398         6              24

WEMBLEY STALLIONS                                    88           123         18

SANDWELL STEELERS                                      96           128         16

PORTSMOUTH DESTROYERS                       70           222         12

ICENI SPEARS                                                      13          186         5

Saphire Series Final round preview and schedule

Today (April 16^th) is the fourth and final round of the 2016 Sapphire Series. Once again the competition has proved to be an overwhelming success with new teams and players being introduced to the sport. There have been many bumps and bruises along the way but each one will have its own story attached to it.

Image courtesy of Garry Charles - My Lonely Tree Media

The organisation has been exemplary with 12 different hosts across the country, showing that the game is going forwards in a very positive manner.

Old rivalries have been renewed, and new ones established. Overall though it’s the learning curve that even the most experienced players are on that makes the game a success. The drive and ambition of the Great Britain teams’ performances is something that all the new players are aiming for. If they can’t get to that level it’s no big loss as new bonds have been met with colleagues.

DIVISION 1

Birmingham Lions have been the flag bearer for the game for a long time now and this looks set to continue this year. They host this week’s final round of games and should be crowned champions at the end of the day. Hertfordshire and Leeds will be aiming to finish runners up, and Derby will be looking to avoid the wooden spoon.

HOST – Birmingham Lions – VENUE – University of Birmingham, Metchley Park Sports Fields, B17 0JA.

Kick Off approx. 1pm

DERBY BRAVES v MANCHESTER TITANS

LEEDS CARNEGIE v HERTFORDSHIRE TORNADOES

MANCHESTER TITANS v DERBY BRAVES

BIRMINGHAM LIONS v LEEDS CARNEGIE

DIVISION 2 NORTH

Teeside have been the most consistent team amongst this group, but the play has been very even throughout. East Kilbride can take no shame from being the bottom of the pack having played more than their part in a division that at one point was too close to call. Chester will host the final round and has the Steelers looking to hold off the challenge of Edinburgh to secure the title.

HOST – Chester Romans – VENUE – Cheshire County Sports Club, Plas Newton Lane, Upton, CH2 1PR.

Kick off approx. 1pm

TEESIDE STEELERS v EDINBURGH WOLVES

CHESTER ROMANS v EAST KILBRIDE PIRATES

DIVISION 2 SOUTH

It’s been an amazing first year for the London Warriors. Like the men’s team they have been dominant from the word go and look to end their campaign in style. They travel to Norwich with an unbeaten streak and many, many points on the board. If you took them out of the picture it’s been a very closely fought group. Sandwell and Wembley are well matched, and Portsmouth have shown some excellent flashes of the potential they have. Host team Iceni have encountered problems in their rookie year having to forfeit some games. They look to bounce back this week and get their first win.

HOST – Iceni Spears – VENUE – Lakenham Hewitt Rugby Club, Main Road, Norwich, NR14 8DU.

Kick off approx. 1pm

LONDON WARRIORS v WEMBLEY STALLIONS

PORTSMOUTH DESTROYERS v ICENI SPEARS

SANDWELL STEELERS v PORTSMOUTH DESTROYERS

WEMBLEY STALLIONS v ICENI SPEARS

SANDWELL STEELERS v LONDON WARRIORS

There will be the usual hard hits and high scores, so if you can attend any of the 3 events, your support will be greatly appreciated and in the meantime will you will be awarded by seeing the growth of the game in front of you.