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New youth coach for Blue Raiders
The Bedfordshire Blue Raiders are
pleased to announce the appointment of Ian Papworth as Director of Youth
Operations. Coach Papworth will also be the Head Coach of the Blue Raiders
Youth Kitted Team (open to players aged 16-19yrs) while coordinating the
development of the '5-on-5' Junior and Cadet Flag teams for younger players
(for players aged 7-15yrs).
Ian began playing in the Mid-80's before qualifying as a BAFRA Official in
1987, and went on to officiate in four Bowl Games. His coaching career began in
2006 and after a short break away from the sport he will be spearheading
the Blue Raiders ambitious youth program.
Coach Papworth said, “I am delighted to take on the role of the coach for
the Bedfordshire Blue Raiders youth program, I have been a fan of American
football since 1984 and a huge Tampa Bay Buccaneers fan. I have
played and officiated the game in the UK and I am now looking forward to
passing on my knowledge as a coach again.”
Blue Raiders Director of Football, Chris Wallis, added, “Our programme of
school visits has paid off and we've had so much interest from potential youth
players over the past three or four months that it's essential we start
practice as soon as possible.”
“This is an important appointment for the whole organisation. The youth team
hasn't practiced since former coach, Phil Cottier, moved to the Northeast of
England last August. I'm looking forward to seeing our young players develop
their skills under Coach Papworth's guidance.”
Youth practice will begin on Sunday 1st March 2009 at Bedford International
Athletics Stadium, Barkers Lane, Bedford, MK41 9SB. The sessions will begin
promptly at 1400 and finish at 1630.
For more information about joining the Blue Raiders, or any aspect of American
Football in the UK, contact Chris Wallis on 01353 720008, via email at
bedsgridiron@aol.com
or via the team’s web site:
www.bedfordshireblueraiders.com