Have you ever harboured an interest in playing American Football like all the stars on the NFL?
If yes, then why not head for a trial, sorry ‘try-out’ with the Donegal Derry Vipers American Football team.
This Sunday, Nov 20th, at The YMCA Grounds Drumahoe Derry /Londonderry 10am-1pm – management at the North-West American football team will be hosting try-outs for new players.
A further try-out will be held Sunday Nov 27th at Colaiste Ailligh, Letterkenny from 10am-1pm.
The Donegal Derry Vipers won promotion to the Intermediate ranks of the Irish American Football League in Ireland last season.
They did this by going on a 7 game unbeaten streak to lift the IAFL2 Bowl Trophy after beating the Wexford Eagles in a hard fought final.
The Vipers had the perfect season and much credit has to go to the coaches Jason Brock a Chigaco native and Paddy Maguire a local Limavady man.
“Initially we’re looking at different strengths for different positions, speed and agility for receivers and corners and power and reactions for linemen. your best chance of becoming a Viper is to turn up and try hard.
“We as coaches can spot someone who is determined and is giving it there all advises Paddy Maguire the Vipers Defensive Coach.
“We’ll be assessing your fitness and aptitude for various positions. Also we are a family so we’ll be assessing your ability to fit in with us as players and the team.”
Captain Niall Lyons added, “To become a Viper, it takes dedications and an openness to learn a new sport (being mental helps to), everything else will fall into place as you go.
“What I look for in a team mates someone committed to the team and willing to put themselves on the line on the field and at training.
“Advice for rookies first and foremost, have some fun, try you best and listen to what the more experienced players tell you as they’ll keep you right on the day.
“Why you should join the Vipers is simple, its some of the best fellas about, you’ll need a thick skin though, because the grief is serious.”
Two years ago when the Vipers started out they set their stall on one day competing in the top flight of the Irish American Football League, the Shamrock Bowl Conference, they are one step closer to achieving this after their breakout season last year but it can’t stop here explains head coach Jason Brock.
“We have amazing talent at this club with some really hardworking committed guys, but we cannot become complacent, we need fresh blood in the team each year and we need guys to show up for tryouts and push the current players for their positions.
“This is football Yo !, we as a club have a goal, it is my job to see that goal become a reality in the very near future”.
Everyone is encouraged to visit www.ddvipers.com to sign up for the tryouts, age, ability and fitness levels are no substitute for hard work determination and guts. Everyone can become a Viper.
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