University of Birmingham Lions American Football

With just hours to go before the BUAFL season kicks off, the focus is on Birmingham where the Lions will take on the Nottingham Trent University Renegades in their annual season curtain-raiser xpLosION.

Despite many returners coming back, Birmingham will be fielding a large number of rookies in their first game and for many this will be their first taste of American Football at full speed against a real opponent. Not only that, but they will have the projected crowd of around 3000 students to contend with. With NTU expected to bring a supporters coach to add to the number of screaming fans, all players would be forgiven for feeling a little nervous as the kick-off gets ever closer.

However, with the knowledge that they are supported by their faithful cheerleaders, the Birmingham Pussycats, the mood inside the Lions camp is one of excitement and anticipation. For veterans it is their first chance to demonstrate how far they have come since their disappointing loss in the final last year. For rookies and new-comers it will be an opportunity show their coaches and new teammates their off-season progress and earn experience that will be valuable as the season progresses.

The Pussycats themselves are very much looking forward to the game and no doubt want to provide excitement of their own at half-time when the football takes a break. The girls have been training hard and have a fantastic display ready to show off to the crowd.

Many Lions have played in xpLosION before and will undoubtedly provide a steadying influence for the entire team. Despite this, all the players will be reminded that this is a game to be enjoyed. With countless past Lions also being in attendance in the crowd, the game will be a great chance for the whole squad to have fun and play to the best of their ability. If every player is able to play at the high standard the coaches know they can then the Birmingham Lions will no doubt be celebrating a winning start to the season.