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CEFL: Defensive Domination

April 25, 2017, 5:10 pm
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Ugljevarevic Photography

CEFL Cup was played over the week in two neighboring countries. On Saturday, Zagreb Patriots hosted Kranj Alp Devils, while a day later in Belgrade, Blue Dragons greeted Sirmium Legionaries.

Game in Zagreb started with the domination of the defenses. Alp Devils were the first to manage knocking on the Patriots' door but where denied entrance by a powerful goal line stand. There four tries from the 1 yard line ended with a turnover on downs. Still, the Patriots couldn’t find their rhythm and where forced to punt. That led to a change of field position in favor of the Slovenian team which marked the end of the first quarter.

Next, the Alp Devils put a solid drive together and finished it with an 18 yard pass for the first score of game. Their field goal followed 3 plays later after the Patriots turned over the ball on fourth down. Finally, the Patriots found some plays to drive over the field for their first touchdown, to lower the difference at the intermission to 6-10.

Offenses were a no show at the start of the second half as well. Then, as the game went on, the Alp Devils broke free of their opponent’s defensive clutches to score another touchdown. Emboldened by this, their defense put even more pressure on the rival, shutting them down completely until the expiration time. Alp Devils offense dispersed the suspense with another touchdown. Patriots attack was reduced to air attempts that failed to find their targets. The definitive field goal by the Slovenian team ended the game with a score 6-26.

Teams were much closely matched up in Belgrade on Sunday, one commonality being a demonstration by the defenses. At the start of the game, a more effective offense was Blue Dragons’ whose quarterback Mladen Zlatic connected with his target Milan Nikolic in the first period. In the next offensive series though, he was intercepted by Denic Suvic and Legionaries tied the score. Those were the only points on the scoreboard that showed 6-6 at the half.

Bad weather, rain and slippery field contributed in the second half and ground the offenses to a halt. Still, the Blue Dragons were more tenacious and Zlatic heaved another pass for a touchdown, this time to Corey Williams. After that, the elements caused the offenses to lose steam and the ball. The game was abound with fumbles and turnovers and no points were seen until the end. When all was said and done, it was a character-building performance, the victor, Blue Dragons, showing more grit in key drives to end the game in their favor 13-6.
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TD[EU] Teams: Allgäu Comets Of Germany

May 3, 2017, 10:17 am
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Allgäu Comets are one of the football powerhouses in Germany, that keeps growing. Team is based in Kempten, but got their name after the biggest Bavarian region - Allgäu, of which Kempten is the largest town. We've been following the Comets for quite some time, and it was only natural to share their team story. We'd love to thank Coach Brian Caler who answered our questions.


Beginnings

Well, in the early years it was all about creating a new public image, a professional image. It all started with everybody wanting to make a change from hobby to professionalism. We also had to create a new attractive Logo and change the uniform colors and order new uniforms.

Within a few years people outside of the club took notice, players from other teams started joining and we started to win games. With the flow of new players and success on the field we strongly started looking for sponsors within the area.

Gearing Up

We didn’t really have much training equipment, a few very old self made bags and one three man sled but as the success came and we added sponsors we were able to add some stuff, like new step over bags and speed ladders. The first practice was all about teaching a culture of professionalism, teaching the importance of staying committed to the team and of course breaking down the practices into segments to teach individual positions.

In picking a coach, it was all about finding a guy who was a teacher of the game and its fundamentals. The ultimate goal for the first few years was simple lay the ground work for success. 

We are fortunate to have a great practice facility here in Kempten. We have two locker rooms, two fields, and a larger room where we can have team meetings. As for games, we have always played in Illerstadion here in Kempten. It is a really nice stadium and one of the best here in Germany for our Sport. In the early years, we as coaches and players were responsible for setting everything up, but as our club grew and we built a larger fan base, we were able to get some help from members of our Fan Club.


Competing & Team Building

We participate in the GFL. We talk a lot about love and support for one another. If you believe in those two words then its pretty easy to keep your team together. Every year we do different team building activities, or in have BBQs during the season.

For our team building we usually do some kind of events like Bowling or Laser Tag. In the past after on a hot day following a game we have gone to the city pool together. During camp we always have a Rookie night, where any new player to the team must do something, singing or dancing.

We will also have an open floor meeting to discuss personal feelings to what the team means or I will ask the players a questions and they have to stand up in front of the players and answer the question.

Community
We do a School project. We have our guys go into the local schools and talk with the students and teach them the game of football.

Support

We have had great support from the city and fans. I have always said we have the greatest fans. They travel to away games and everything. As for sponsors, there great. without there support nothing would be possible.


Rebuilding

Well over the years I have learned to respect the lives of my players, coaches, and our management outside of the team. In the early years it was Football, Football, and Football. Now its respect the private lives, they have jobs and families.

We are currently in a rebuilding phase. We are trying to make a commitment to the development of our own players and are working to develop former players into coaches so we do not lose sight of where and what our foundation is built on.
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CEFL: Super Sandro

May 8, 2017, 4:59 pm
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Photo: Goran Milosavljevic
The Inn valley nestled softly in the Alps was not so peaceful tonight when SWARCO RAIDERS Tirol welcomed Triangle Razorbacks. Austrian team was playing for a place in SK CEFL Bowl XII, while the visitors had something to prove, first to themselves, then to the greater football family.

End score aside, as it did not accurately portray the balance of forces on the field, the game was a spectacle. There was a little bit of everything, great offensive plays, staunch defense, turnovers, and lots of points. That last item on the menu was the merit of two players most of all, both of whom pitched in with four touchdowns each. Quarterback Sean Shelton upped his performance from Wroclaw by one score, connecting with running back Sandro Platzgummer for 3 of them. The latter player added one of his own on a punt return, reproducing the feat from the kickoff play in Wroclaw.

Platzgummer will be the first one to admit that he has some big shoes to fill, thinking of Florian Grein and Andreas Hofbauer, team’s former star running backs. Nevertheless, judging by his performances this season, his feet are growing bigger each game, at the delight of football fans. There are players who can seemingly do it all, and he gives the impression to be one of that sort. Whether running the ball, getting open on passing plays, gaining yards after catch, blocking, returning, he’s a very versatile player. And he’s only 20 years old, a medical student at that. Tonight the viewers have wholeheartedly agreed, voting him the game MVP with a landslide.

The game itself started sloppy. Shelton was dishing out passes to Simon Unterrainer and Kyle Callahan, rushing for a big play himself. His team quickly got one ladder away from Razorbacks’ end zone, when he fumbled the ball on an option play. The Danes took over on their one yard line, with quarterback Peter Linneman going long to Oliver Holmlund and running back Geoffrey Lewis breaking free for a big play. That was all they could do though and had to settle for a punt.

Shelton was eager to recoup in the next drive, finding Kyle Callahan and Fabian Abfalter twice each, all for double-digit yards. Platzgummer’s rush put the ball on the rival 4 yard line, where Shelton picked up a low snap a screen-passed left to Sandro who strolled into the end zone. Thomas Pichlmann’s kick was true on the point after that time and all through the night.

Razorbacks attempted to get back, but Linneman’s 13 yard rush was all they could do, helped by SWARCO RAIDERS 15 yard penalty. Still, they took the chance when their drive stalled and went for the fourth down but did not convert. Shelton continued with long passes to Platzgummer and Callahan before stretching his legs for a run, but Razorback’s defensive lineman Mads Nielsen forced a fumble and his teammate Kaj Sørensen recovered it.

Linneman goes back in, completing a pass to Holmlund for a first down, rushing for a new one himself, Lewis adding another. After a three and out, the kicking unit tries for a 45 yard field goal but Torben Jørgensen misses wide left. From there Platzgummer racks up another 14 rushing yards but his team can’t muster a fresh first down and is forced to punt. Linneman plays hurry-up with two minutes in the half and targets Holmlund two times for 36 yards total, aided by Lewis’ 15 yard rush. They get near the red zone, before a penalty backs them off of it and they’re left with just enough time to attempt a 56 yard field goal which falls short.

Photo: Goran Milosavljevic


In the second half, Razorbacks get the ball again to try a different tactic. Testing Raiders’ front seven, they rush play after play, barely moving the chains. Linneman sees his opportunity and connects with his tight end Mark Nielsen for 24 yards. Lewis and Mathias Nielsen continue with the ground attack gaining big yards and getting into the Austrians’ red zone for the first time. Then, Linneman slings a pass behind his receiver which gets intercepted by Patrick Pilger.

Well rested and determined to stop allowing turnovers, SWARCO RAIDERS’ offense shifted into high gear. Shelton saw to that with a long pass to Simon Unterrainer and running the ball for 41 yards in two plays. Platzgummer joined him with another 15 yards of meandering through the defense. In the next play they connect again for a 12 yard touchdown. Kavon Joyce returns the ensuing kickoff but the ball is stripped from him and recovered by Arno Schwarz. The very next play, Shelton and Platzgummer continue where they left off with a 30 yard pitch and catch score.

Razorbacks’s next drive is more of the same, when Linneman completes a 12 yards pass to Holmlund, before he’s intercepted again, this time by Fabian Seeber. Shelton does better, locating Filip Vlajić in the end zone for a 30 yard touchdown. Danes next drive leads to nowhere and they have to punt again, this time Platzgummer jumping for the ball that bounced and takes off to the races looking for blocks by his teammates. His 95 yard touchdown puts the game to bed with the final score 35-0. A couple of more drives after that make no impact.

After the game, Sebastian Fandert, head coach of Triangle Razorbacks was not too disappointed with the loss: “We arrived yesterday after 20:00 hours, and we came exactly because of this experience, to play against the best team in Europe. We kept fighting throughout the game, we were well prepared, we get what we know, and in the end we ran out of gas a little bit. I’m proud of my team, we played a tough game and I don’t feel so bad, because we played good today.”

Shuan Fatah, head coach of SWARCO RAIDERS Tirol was more critical of his team: “First off, I have to tip my hat to Triangle Razorbacks. They played their hearts out and they did an awesome job. Their head coach and I go back a long time ago, we know each other from Dresden. I’m proud of the way he prepared his team, they gave us hell in the first half. We made mistakes, we didn’t finish drives, I think we had two fumbles and dropped balls, which was very untypical of us, but our opponents were forcing them too. I didn’t like the way we played and I told the team at half time that they better show up because it got to a point where it was concerning. The good thing about the Raiders is that I can get on the team and they respond. That’s what they did this time too and we had an awesome third quarter, got some breaks that we didn’t get in the first half and then we just sailed to the finish.”
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IFAF Kicks Out USA Football

May 8, 2017, 9:40 pm
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IFAF (Paris) has issued a press release on withdrawing the recognition of USA Football. We already wrote about the suspension on anti-doping grounds IFAF put in motion - to read the article CLICK HERE.

Now, we're not sure how this will work since USA Football has become a member of the U.S. Olympic Committee as a recognized sport organization. The formal recognition was granted by the USOC on Nov. 6. - Full press release HERE.

IFAF Press Release:

The IFAF decided to withdraw the recognition of USA Football as National Governing Body of American Football in the USA for multiple, continuous and ongoing violations of the IFAF Anti-Doping Code and terminated the membership of USA Football by immediate effect.

Those actions made it impossible for the Doping Free Sport Unit (DFSU) of the Global Association of International Sport Federations (GAISF), formerly known as SportAccord, to implement an out of competition control system in the USA.

USA Football was not willing to submit names and contact information of any national team players to IFAF, which was blocking DFSU to add any player from USA in the ADAMS Database system of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

USA Football also did not allow a USADA testing officer, who was assigned by DFSU to carry out an out of competition test, the access to the practice camp of USA Football junior national team.

The decision was taken after USA Football repeatedly refused to follow the anti-doping rules and that they have received multiple extended deadlines on which they didn’t reply, or refused to comply.

As a result, the IFAF decided to make a formal motion to expel USA Football from IFAF. USA Football was had a one-months’ notice, according to IFAF Statutes, to respond on IFAF decision. The deadline expired April 17th, 2017. No answer whatsoever has been received.

IFAF Disciplinary Committee already decided on September 16, 2016, firstly to suspend USA Football for serious violations of the IFAF Anti-Doping Rules, article 5.6.6.

USA Football was suspended until they comply fully with article 5.6.6. of the IFAF Anti-Doping Rules.

On February 9, 2017, the IFAF sent a new request to USA Football in order to comply with the IFAF Anti-Doping Rules. The deadline for answering was February 23, 2017. No answer whatsoever has been received.

IFAF, therefore, under the WADA code, the IFAF Anti-Doping Rules and international testing standard, had no other choice but to expel USA Football and terminate their IFAF membership.

USA Football is no longer a member of IFAF and therefore does not hold any of the rights that belongs to an IFAF member.

IFAF Press release can be found HERE.
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Italy: Issues Between QB Micah Brown & Lazio Marines Escalate

May 12, 2017, 9:16 am
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Photo: Beppe Fongaro

Micah Brown is a Hall Of Fame QB, who won 8 championships during his 10 seasons in Europe.  However, this season wasn't as smooth as expected, due to internal issues, which escalated to Brown leaving the team before the season was done. In most cases, when there are issues between a team and their imports, we tend to stay out of it, however, given the fact that Micah has a flawless career behind him, with teams that vouch for him, we're bringing you his story in full.

- There are many concerns and red flags regarding Lazio, even before my arrival in Rome. After talking with previous imports and coaches and people known to the organization, I thought that those were some concerns that I would be able to assist with. Stoked about the game versus Innsbruck, along with competing against the university team from the states, it would've been solid international competition. With The head coach and other import players that were committed, being in the Rome, it was a no-brainer, deal was done.

Upon my arrival in Rome, it was evident that the club was not prepared for us. The house was big enough to accommodate the imports, however the rooming situation was not how it was stated to us. Neither was the vehicle, gas allowance or transportation pass. I was also supposed to have multiple daily meals or a daily meal and special grocery allowance. When it came to be that there were no meal sponsors, I suggested a by weekly food allowance, which they agreed upon and set the amount for.

In regards to the field, the facilities and anything surrounding it, those things or what it was. The equipment and given, I believe my helmet was from the early 2000's, and a practice with this helmet up until the week of the first game, where I demanded to have a safe helmet. No helmet was set, started rolling with games and so on. Then you realize you run out of water during the game, meanwhile the main sponsor of the club is bottled water company. We were doing good on tape until that ran out along with not having a physiotherapist there at the games. Physio post game or during the week was scarce and limited, pending availability, I assumed. Then, you're informed as to why there is no physio at the games or during the week-- because for the past three years that therapist was not compensated for their services.

Continuing on with the fact of me having to buy my game jerseys, 144€ total. I will say they did have "my jersey" with number, however sizing was an issue. I was asked what size game jersey, game pants, sweats and team apparel what I wear, obviously I said my sizes and again they were not anything close to what I ordered. As an athlete you want your equipment including your game jersey and pants to fit a specific way, hence why you give and/or are asked what size you would like to wear.

Moreover, my first payment ended up being a month late. During the time of this late period, I was asked if I would make a new website for the club-- at my expense, create huddle highlight videos after each game, and apparently provide a written proposal on what I feel the club could do to benefit themselves better. If you know me, you know I enjoy doing these kind of things for clubs however I feel it's a bit tantalizing to request such things when it's not even communicated upon when the late salary will be paid. Needless to say I was invited to this managers house for dinner and to chat, which I thought was an awesome gesture, until it later came back that that meal should count as a daily meal (before the grocery allowance was in place). Oh or the gym deal were I would have to basically work at the gym, to train at the gym. I opposed this as gym was included in the contract, tell finally it came that I could gym for no cost.

So as the season goes along we lose a few games, very close, one-score games and the difficulties surrounding the club managements perspective was blamed upon the imports and stated that the imports aren't committed.

Wow! Was the only thing that came to mind.

To add to that reminding you of the Innsbruck game, I asked the manager on numerous occasions in various ways is the game on? Answer, in a roundabout way, Yes! I was tipped off from a current coach there that the game was not happening.

Micah  also said he had a foot injury which was followed by a lack of medical attention: Coach/manager made sure I went to the hospital and got an X-ray and also did a special tape/cast prior to games for me.

It was agreed upon with the general manager and I for me to have a return flight, provided by the club, for pending status of a government procedure in another country. While away when I was should've received salary, and did not, I reached out to the general manager and said "I'm done". He gave me some random, non-caring response and stated that I did not get paid because he was keeping the money for the flight. Again this is a flight that is "covered by the club".

Now we're getting down to it, where payments are still late. Given some amount now, playing the "I didn't know how much" card just to pay the remainder later. Having to be reimbursed pretty much every week because payments on salary and allowances we're not covered adequately. So there is a miscommunication between the president and the general manager. The general manager is my personal contact, any issues I have I should speak with him, when something isn't right he passes the blame on to the president, then says the president's English is limited. The president seemed cool he would see me, shake my hand, ask if everything is OK or if I needed anything. I didn't know how to take him in regards to if he knew and was acting this kind away or maybe he really did not have any idea. So I decided to have a meeting, with the head coach, the president, the general manager and another manager of the team to translate and is known to be 'straightforward'.

My exact words were "if you're late or don't come through on the terms we have, again, I won't say anything, I'll just leave. That's it. I'm done. Period." They stated they understood, they agreed and I felt better that it appeared we were on the same page.

Until what just happened, happened. The club was over a week late on allowance and late paying me full salary when it was due. I sent a friendly reminder to the president saying thanks I received some however I should have more. After about a week of no response, I sent "thanks 👌🏽" as to say you've made your decision. I expressed to the President and general manager that I need my salary and flight home, confirmed by Friday 14:00. Flight was to be the following Wednesday, after my initial plans to play in the must win game on Sunday to ensure a playoff berth.

The group discussion got pretty heated from the president side, and basically came down to he's not paying me, he wants the fight and he's going to come teach me a lesson, and I need to be out of the house by that evening. Among other things that were said from him and the general manager.

TDEU has reached out to the Lazio Marines. Board said it's a simple problem and that Micah decided he doesn't want to play for the team. Payments wise - they stated that he wanted to get paid prior to the due dates, and that right now, he's being uncooperative. Micah is on a flight back home as we speak.
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Leap From Europe To NFL - Can It Be Done?

May 15, 2017, 7:28 pm
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Photo: Patrick Emerson
If you're coming from The States - after finishing college - your dream is to play in the NFL, or CFL, right? However, sometimes things don't really go as planned. What are the options? Continue pursuing your dreams within the Arena Football League or go semi-pro? Or?

Europe is still holding the #1 spot for the "next best thing", although Brazil and China are catching up. We don't hear much about Japan, as it is very hard to get in. But let's focus on Europe.

There are numerous examples of players coming to Europe, even after the NFL - Tony Simmons (2nd round pick, New England), Sean Embree (Denver Broncos), Reuben Droughns (Denver Broncos, NY Giants), just to name a few..

But, there are also some fresh new faces on the scene as well.

Belgrade Wolves signed Lewis Kindle for their 2017 season as their new quarterback. Wolves are on the hunt to regain their titles back – both in the domestic league - SAAF and CEFL (Central European League). Kindle comes from North Carolina AT&T University, and, he may not have gotten the call from the NFL – but, his career can definitely go only up from here – at least in Europe.

According to Sports Betting Dime, odds Kindle would ever make it to the 53-man roster are 999 to 1

If you’d ask any of the veteran imports, who have spent 5+ years overseas – whether it is possible to go to the NFL, after playing in Europe, most would say No, but there’s always a chance. Plus, picking the right organizations and leagues overseas can only help raise your chances.
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[TD]EU Leagues: Ukrainian League Of American Football - ULAF

May 15, 2017, 10:22 pm
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Football in Ukraine is rapidly developing and, hopefully soon - we may see some of the Ukrainian teams competing in European regional leagues.  ULAF just celebrated its first birthday, so we talked to Maksym Shylo, ULAF president, about the league and teams in Ukraine.

Beginnings

Officially, our league was formed January 16, 2016. Before that, all teams were playing under the aegis of NFAFU, which stands for National Federation of American Football in Ukraine. President of the National Federation, being a politician who had nothing in common with American football at all, was only advertising himself. All teams were forced to take care of everything. There was no help or teams' support from the Federation.

Because of such inactivity of the Federation the national team was disbanded, which was a great loss for our players. Also, the local board of referees was extremely close to collapse. We were realizing that NFAFU was not enhancing American Football in Ukraine, but killing it instead.

After the report conference that took place in December 2015, where all the work done by NFAFU was discussed, all teams unanimously decided to stop any collaboration with NFAFU. As a result, in January 2016 the Ukrainian League of American Football (ULAF) was formed, headed by Maxim Shylo. ULAF is following the principle of democracy: each team has a right to vote, and all decisions are made jointly.

Now the league’s leaders with all teams are working on improvement and purchase of technical equipment for exercises. We are working on a search of some patron support (especially for exercise equipment, gears for youth and adults, and requisites for matches.) In addition, the league's administration is looking for any possibility of affordable manufacturing of that equipment. This way, each team could afford a number of training machines. Moreover, we are searching for sponsors who could help us to reduce our expenses for training camps' rent, equipment purchase and broadcasting.

Season #1

Last year was the first season for the league. The championship was formed by 19 teams. All teams were formed in three conferences. This championship was most interesting and memorable one in the whole history of the American football in Ukraine. Right before the season had started, the referees' seminar took place.

During 2016 football season the league has organized 3 games for teams from Kiev and completely covered all expenses. Also, ULAF co-organized the game in Odessa. That was the first time in the history of American football in Ukraine when a match had sponsors and professional broadcasting by a TV-channel 'Most-Video TV.' That game between Odessa Pirates and Kiev Bulldogs was visited by 1500 people. ULAF administration also helped a team from the Kharkov to organize a trip to a game in Minsk (Belarus.) In that situation, we found a sponsor who paid for a half of the trip. Later on, the league with a cooperation of clubs from Uzhgorod (Lumberjacks) and Minsk (Zubrs) organized the final game of the championship between the Lumberjacks and Bandits (another team from Kiev). Throughout the whole season, the league was helping teams from different cities in a search for investors and partners.

Because of the league, one of the teams from Kiev acquired two American coaches. Right before the season ULAF 2017 we held the referees’ seminar. Also, we organized the first American football tournament for youth in the history of Ukraine.


Media

ULAF had acquired sponsorships for two TV broadcasts and received a contract with three network channels: Sport1, Sport2, and Most-VideoTV. With the last one, ULAF managed to design a phone app. In addition, the league collaborates with two large Internet companies (‘KartinaTV’ and ‘DivanTV’.) The league found sponsors for two news programs about American football. In addition, we invited one partner who paid for one TV-program on the ‘1st National’ (main national TV-channel in Ukraine.) After that, the League found sponsors for a national team’s training camp. Once, the ULAF organized a coin toss on television.

Right now league’s administration is looking for sponsors to sew uniforms for the national team and funds for two friendly matches: one at home, and one abroad.

ULAF is collaborating with the ‘American House’ in Ukraine.


Competitions

The main competition in the league is ‘The ULAF Championship’ However, we are planning to launch women’s league as well. We want to organize women’s tournament this year and set the second youth tournament this fall. Again, we are still working on training camps for the national team and two international games. Our plan is to organize sort of an ‘all-star game’ this winter. We have a lot of strong and impressive players who might get into the national team, and I am sure they will show a great game on an international level.


People

Maxim Shylo is the president of ULAF. Being a former player of the Kiev Bandits he and his teammate formed a new club in the capital, Bulldogs. Nowadays, the team is on the 4th place on the national rate. In addition, he used to co-organize most of the games in Kiev.
Fedosova Oksana is a vice-president of the league.
Denis Chernev is the second vice-president. Manager of Kharkov’s team ‘Atlantes’.
Dmitriy Miroshnechenko- manager of the interurban development of the league. A functionary of Lvov ‘Lions’.
Glushenko Alexander is a marketing specialist of ULAF. Manager of ‘Gladiators’ from Khmelnitsky.

ULAF’s administration went with the own right concept of the popularization of the American football. We decided to advertise this sport in our country as simply as it is possible. Our goal was to drag as much attention of Ukrainians to our resources, websites, and games, as we could. Our mission is to introduce American football not as just a type of sport, but as a family event, a big sports event with a showcase. We initiated systematization and improvement of games’ organizations. A lot of effort is being put so everyone, young and adults, could enjoy those games.

The main idea was to write about American football so anyone could read about it, become interested, and keep reading. In order to achieve this goal, ULAF’s administration had to find strong media for partnerships, which ended with a success. We are cooperating with four TV-channels, two internet companies. Recently we started to work with few very famous online sport resources. Now we are preparing a TV show about the American football in Ukraine. Our main goal is to become a well-recognized brand. Thus, every day we are trying to share more news and articles in any media in the country. We are including information about teams, the league itself and basics of the American football.

Plans

There are few more tasks that we are currently working on. One is to find coaches from the United States and Europe. We are lacking well-educated specialists who know all the aspects of coaching. In additions, we are inviting international players in our league. Right now teams are not managing big funds, so we are looking for those people who is ready to help us voluntarily.

A highly important issue for us is to build a common structure for every football club: coaches, managers, marketing specialists, press-secretariats, assistants, etc.

We are looking into add a teaching process for youth teams and women’s league.

A huge problem for us is the amount of equipment for those who want to play but does not have the necessary amount of finances. That is why we are searching for any sort of a patron support.

However, last season did not last without mistakes. We were concentrating on streaming games on the YouTube. Turns out, not that many people are ready to watch sport events on YouTube, so we decided to start broadcasting on television.

That is all we could tell you about the Ukrainian League of American Football. We hope that for those of you in Europe or USA this article gave a clear picture of our league, and thank you for your attention.
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BoxVideos: PLFA I - Week 8 Highlights

May 17, 2017, 6:02 pm
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BoxVideos PLFA1 Week 8 highlights! Guys behind BoxVideos are Dawid Bialy - The most popular American football commentator/speaker in Poland, and Patryk Madmanski (Madman Project) music composer.

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CEFL: Belgrade Thriller

May 23, 2017, 7:32 am
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Photo: Boško Bunuševac

Warm Saturday afternoon held its promise to the fans of two rivals meeting in Belgrade. Equal chances of Belgrade SBB Vukovi and Istanbul Koc Rams in this game gave hope for an exciting game. The expectations were more than met by the drama unfolding on the field.

After a short kickoff by the visiting team, SBB Vukovi opened their drive near midfield. Tenacious runs by quarterback Lewis Kindle and running back Mihailo Josović racked up the yards, aided by a hybrid back Vojin Milić, who cathches a pass close to Rams’ goal line. Josović dots the I with a 2 yard touchdown, but the kick is blocked.

Turkish team doesn’t let up for a moment. Their play caller Quentin Williams heaves a long pass to Charles McCrea who strolls uncovered into the end zone for a 42 yard score. Kicker Mehmet Sarikatipoğlu puts his team in the lead.

Belgraders next drive is not as effective. Milić hauls in another 12 yard pass and Kindle rushes for a few first downs. Next, their offensive line breaks, defenders get to Kindle who scrambles to the left and slings the ball into coverage that gets intercepted by a Serbian international, Ivan Pavlović. Williams gets the ball back on his 11 yard line and puts on a show. Long rushes and precision passes to McCrea and Pavlović take his team to Vukovi 13 yard line. From there, Taha Çokadar finds his way through the defense and ups the difference to 7 points.

Vukovi show up big in the next drive. Offensive line is paving the way for big double-digit runs by Milić, Kindle and Josović. Kindle puts it away with a 5 yard run and Marko Todorović is good for a point after. Rams continue with the ground attack over Williams and McCrea, but falter outside of Vukovi red zone and try for a field goal that falls short. Kindle take matters into his own hands, runs away from the defenders for a fantastic 55 yards dash, and takes the lead for his team at half time, 20-13.

After the break Rams resume where they left off. Taking what the defense gives them, short gains extend a long drive. Çokadar finally powers through the line again for a 2 yard score. On the try, McCrea steals 2 points rushing the ball as the holder on a trick play from the kick formation.

Vukovi are stuck in running mode as well. Josović, Milić and Duane Brady take turns escaping the defense ending up at the 4 yard line. Kindle pierces the front 7 for another touchdown and Milić rumbles though himself on a 2 point conversion. However, visitors and determined to answer in kind. Williams flicks a screen pass to McCrea at midfield, who breaks two tackles and sprints to the end lining up the score.

The home team gets the ball back with 6 minutes left. Brady and Josović chip away at the defense combining for 50 yards between them. Losing steam at opposing 17 yard line they leave it to their special team, but the kick is no good. The clock shows less than 2 minutes when the Rams get the ball and go for it all.

The key moment by the Vukovi defense takes place a couple of plays in. D-linemen chase after Williams who lobs and errant pass to a covered receiver. The ball finds its way into Brady’s arms at the 40 yard line who takes it all the way to Rams’ red zone. Pressures for time, Kindle hurries to locate Nikola Simović who’s open at the goal line near the left pylon for a 20 yard touchdown. With 6 seconds dividing them from the uncertainty of overtime, the scales definitively tip in Vukovi favor, 35-28.

With two wins in the Eastern Conference, Vukovi now look to next week when Budapest Cowbells visit Kragujevac. The Wild Boars are 1-0 and a win away from the finals. If the Hungarian team prevails, the Vukovi will continue with their sequence. A league phenomenon the Belgraders were CEFL bowl participants in all of the past 11 seasons, collecting 6 trophies for their treasure chest.

In the Western Conference in Denmark, Triangle Razorbacks have played Wroclaw Panthers for the bragging rights. The SWARCO RAIDERS have already placed in the CEFL Bowl XII beating both teams. Nevertheless, that fact did not erode the appeal, as the duo approached the game with a playoff zeal.

The game granted a glimpse to a very strange and rarely seen opening act. Panthers’ offense flowed like butter, only to end with the opposing goal line under their noses an astonishing three consecutive times in as many first offensive series. They were not able to close any deals because the Razorbacks played vigilant goal line defense and forced a trifecta of turnovers.

First, quarterback Timothy Morovick and running back Rickey Stevens crossed the length of the field in four long strides and put the ball on the 2 yard line. Morovick tried to push it in, running to his right when Razorbacks’ defensive back Kavon Joyce punched out the ball that went through the end zone for a touchback. After the Razorbacks’ quick 3 and out, the Panthers tried airing the ball. Receiver Bartosz Dziedzic was good for 16 yards, but another Morovick’s lob for the score ended up intercepted by corner back Dian Hansen. Another 3 ineffective plays later a punt by the Razorbacks halts at midfield. Stevens and Adam Skakowski’s dashes advance the ball to the opposite red zone. Morovick stretched his legs again, but can’t get a grip as the ball is stripped from him once more by Joyce, with defensive lineman Mads Nielsen recovering near his own goal line.

Razorbacks get the ball back, their quarterback Peter Linnemann trying harder to make something happen this time. Nothing changes from the previous attempts and they punt the ball to Poles 40 yard line. The Panthers are determined to end the charade by the safe hands of Stevens, who runs for a couple of first downs and punches it in from 9 yards at the start of the second quarter. Adam Nelip is good for point after and the Panthers grow their confidence.

The opening touchdown woke up the Razorbacks to trust the ball to their own workhorse running back Geoffrey Lewis, who get the initial first down. Receiver Oliver Holmlund hauls in Linnemann’s 27 yard pass and their offense starts churning. Lewis takes it from there, getting the ball four times for a total of 25 yards, including a touchdown bull rush from the 1. Torben Jørgensen’s kick is good for the last tie score in the game.

Panthers ensuing drive is another Stevens fest who gains 30 yards before Morovick is sacked by Henning Jensen. After a couple of plays that go nowhere they punt to Joyce who returns the ball for 41 yards. Razorbacks’ new quarterback arrival, Shazzon Mumphrey goes under center. His first ever pass for the team is catapulted deep right and intercepted by Adam Lary.

Panthers three plays end inches away from first down so they go for fourth just 18 yards from their own goal line, coaches showing great confidence in their offense. Morovick is good for 2 yards on quarterback draw and never looks back. Next, he launches two passes for 52 yards total, Stevens picks up another 25 in three runs, last one for a 3 yard score with a few minutes left in first half.

Danes can’t manage to get their drive going and have to punt yet again. Panthers employ Jakub Kłoskowski for two 14 yard grabs near the right sideline to stop the time. On the next play, Morovick is flushed from the pocket, keeps the ball and sprints toward the left pylon for a 21 yard touchdown. In just two minutes before the intermission, the Polish team redeems for three turnovers at the start of the game.

Their coaches’ tongue lashing at the half must have had an impact on the Razorbacks. They seemed like a different team in the first drive after the break, with the offensive line shoring up opening a whole for Lewis’ 11 yard rush. Holmlund jumps and snatches another pass as he falls for a 34 yard gain. Lewis finally finds a running lane for a 20 yard touchdown.

Panthers’ are resolute to impose their will through Stevens and Morovick’s rushes. Nelip contributes a 16 yard catch, but Stevens is the battering ram for another 8 yard score. Mumphrey exhausts his knowledge of the playbook and Linnemann goes back in the game in his team’s next offensive series. His woes continue and the Razorbacks have to punt.

Skakowski relieves Stevens at the running back position, and rumbles on from there. Overpowering offensive line punches holes in the Razorbacks’ front seven at will, with Skakowski benefiting from it. One of their rare mistakes sees Mads Nielsen and Jaroslav Vavrac get a hold of Morovick for a sack of 8 yards. He snaps back in the next play swinging for another long pass. Skakowski takes it to the house in the fourth period for the final 14-34.

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In the Western group of CEFL Cup, home team Zagreb Patriots appeared poised to send Sarajevo Spartans home without a victory. Visting team's offense got the ball inside the opposing 3 yard line only to be forced back and had to settle for a field goal. However, Patriots offense quickly turn the ball over putting the weight on their defense. Spartans quarterback Caleb Hecox threw a perfect pass in the left corner of the end zone to bring the score to 0-9. A failed two-point conversion gave the Patriots defensive staff hopes they were still in the game through the first quarter. Though the Patriots defense literally smothered the Spartans running game they were unable to squelch the hot arm of Hecox. Head coach Matthew Carver continued to go deep defeating the Patriots young secondary. By half time the score stood at 0-23.

Visiting team’s defense helped their offense by intercepting Patriots quarterback Morris Schmidt on three different occasions, providing a short field for the Spartans offense to use. After half time Patriots defensive coordinator John Anderson changed his defensive alignment, stopping both the run and the pass. However, it wasn’t long before Spartans coach Carver found a plan to add 6 more points to the score. On the other side of the field head coach Damir Zupan guided his offense down the field in the fourth quarter to the end zone when Schmidt connected with wide receiver Andrej Barlafa who scampered down the right sideline for a 40 yard score. The Spartans got the ball back and ran the clock out, making the final score 6-29.
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CEFL: CEFL Bowl XII Announcement

May 31, 2017, 6:46 am
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CEFL Press Release:

Sportklub Central European Football League is proud to announce CEFL Bowl XII participants, SWARCO RAIDERS Tirol and Kragujevac Wild Boars. It is our pleasure to inform our avid followers that the hosting of CEFL Bowl XII is awarded to SWARCO RAIDERS Tirol. CEFL Bowl XII will be played on Saturday, 10 June at the Tivoli stadium in Innsbruck, with the kickoff at 19:00 CET.

SWARCO RAIDERS Tirol have placed in CEFL Bowl XII after winning both games in their Sportklub CEFL Championship Western Conference. Their first was an away game against Panthers Wrocław in Poland that ended 20-33. Raiders second win, a convincing 35-0, came at their home field in the Tivoli stadium against Triangle Razorbacks of Denmark.

Kragujevac Wild Boars have also won both games in their Eastern Conference outing. In the season opener of Sportklub CEFL Championship they hosted the Istanbul Koç Rams and won by 21-14. The team had a long wait until their second game that was played in the closing weekend against Budapest Cowbells last Saturday, ending in a 50-15 score.

More information about the CEFL Bowl XII and further details about the participants will continue in our following announcements.
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Serbia: Wild Boars Win Vs Blue Dragons By Forfeit Through Appeal

June 1, 2017, 11:43 am
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Photo: Milos Rafailovic Raf

One of the best teams in the Balkan region, Wild Boars Kragujevac, lost a game to the underdog, Blue Dragons Belgrade – 14:7. The game was excellent, friendly and the outcome was totally unexpected. It was the first time in history of football in Serbia that the Wild Boars suffered a loss from the Blue Dragons.

This would not be so interesting, as the game took place on May 13, however, it still has not been officially registered by the Serbian Association. The reason for this is suspended LB #36 Nebojsa Rajkovic from Blue Dragons, who was ejected from the game against the Indians, prior to the game vs the Wild Boars. From what we were able to find out, Dragons appealed, the disciplinary commission decision was overruled, and he was eligible to play – at least until the appeal process is over.

However, after the game, Wild Boars board has submitted a complaint and requested the game to be registered 35-0 in their favor.

We have reached out both to Kragujevac and Belgrade to get their statements on what is going on.
Nemanja Calija, president of Wild Boars says:

"SAAF has been collapsing since last year, as its being led by incompetent people and others who have their spot in SAAF and who are there to protect their teams and not to promote the sport and the development of American football. The very same is happening now in this case with the Dragons player, who is appeared in the match against Boars, despite all regulations.

SAAF Disciplinary Official, Competition Commissioner and Arbitration Commission have ruled a decision which is against all regulations and rules. On top of that, the whole process has been led, again, outside of all regulations, by the SAAF Secretary General – who also serves as the president of the organization where the suspended player comes from.

This is not an isolated case in SAAF. This is pretty much a standard way for people who sit in serious positions in the Association. It's a violation of the Sports Act, a violation of the Statute of the Association and all other ordinances.

The saddest part is that no one is interested in this, and now it pretty much seems that the Wild Boars are the only ones who are requesting for rules and regulations to be obeyed, while other teams remain quiet.

We aim to fight for a good system and the development of the sport, and not winning the games at the green table. One of the facts to back that up, which can be confirmed by the CEFL (Central European League) as well, is that we could have gotten a 35-0 in our advantage – in one of our biggest games, which is what the opponent was offering, but we made the effort to play and win on the field."

Photo: Milos Rafailovic Raf

We have talked to the Blue Dragons as well, their board said that they have approached the Wild Boars HC, Aleksandar Ristic – Alf, prior to the match, who agreed for Rajkovic to play. Head referee was present during the discussion.

- From our point of view, that is under the jurisdiction of people in SAAF. Decision has been made, but the board of Kragujevac is constantly appealing. The truth is that we should be the ones to file the complaints, because the damage of the wrong decision is completely on our team. Suspended player could play and he had that on paper from the disciplinary commission, as the appeal process was started before the game against the Wild Boars. That was said before the start of the game to the Referee and the Wild Boars Head Coach.

"We were ready to remove that player from the game, if Kragujevac wanted that. On the referee's question, Kragujevac agreed for him to play and he did. After the game nobody wrote anything in any form of compliant, referees or the Wild Boars. Two days later, they filed for an appeal to register that game with an official score of 0-35 for them.

We are going to let this go its way, hypocrisy of Kragujevac management is on them. It’s a shame because of players who suffered their first defeat from our team, as it takes away the dignity they had after the game.

By the way, management of Blue Dragons is currently in process of appealing the Championship game in 2009, when Kragujevac won the Championship. That game was played after the management of Kragujevac pressured the Blue Dragons Head Coach Jovan Bulatovic, to let their suspended WR to play. He scored two touchdowns! We will demand for that game to be registered with the official score of 35-0 for Blue Dragons and claim the champion title 2009 for our team.

There is also a matter of disciplinary procedure in progress, against the management of Kragujevac, because they were threatening, multiple times over the phone, the Disciplinary judge, members of Arbitrary Committee and the Competition Commissioner - in attempt to persuade them to rule in their favor. Also, they were making threats towards the SAAF officials, saying that they will use political influence to take them down from their positions in Association and to endanger the functioning of SAAF.

We are very sorry that a great Serbian team is being dragged into this, because of their management."

How will this play out? SAAF already ruled in favor of Blue Dragons, but the story is far from over. Wild Boars have filed a complaint to the Sport Federation of Serbia to overrule SAAF decision and overthrow the members of the association.

Update: SAAF has made an official decision and has ruled a 35:0 in favor of the Wild Boars. Blue Dragons are set to appeal this decision. The word is that the Blue Dragons failed to pay the appeal fee, they made vs the Wild Boars complaint, to SAAF on time.
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Interview: Srdjan Stanojev - Winning Championships On & Off The Field

June 12, 2017, 9:30 am
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We already featured Srdjan Stanojev, when he was announced as a TDEU Hero, however we never really sat down and shared his football story. From kicking the ball to becoming a coach/GM, Stanojev has proven that one can do it all in football, with a good dose of determination and love for the sport.


- Kickers are not often taken seriously, especially in Europe. What were some of the things you'd do to get yourself better at your position?

To be honest, as a kicker, team will never take you seriously. I could not live with that fact. I was trying to prove myself to the team, that I can be an athlete like everybody else. As I transfered from European football /soccer/, although it seemed as there is no difference, I needed to work a lot on my kicking game.

The hardest thing for me was that I didn't have a kicking coach and my only learning options were YouTube and some kicking sites. Practicing three times per week with the team was not enough for me, so I'd usually go to a field that is close to my place and kick for 1-2h (don't try to over-kick it, it may hurt your leg).


- What piece of advice would you give to kickers in Europe?

Do not let anyone underestimate you. Usually people will say how kicking is easy, "it is simple, just kick the football". In those situations just tell them to try, if they know how to kick it better, you will step away... And believe me they don't know it :)


- Not everyone can transfer from being a player to becoming a coach. What do you think are the things to make this transition a successful one?

After career ending injury it was hard for me to deal with the fact that I will not play football anymore. As I was a football fanatic, the only option to continue with football was to transfer to a coach position. Coaching job was not something completely new to me, as I was helping earlier with coaching of the junior team.

The most important thing is that you really need to love the game and to live it every day, no matter where you go. I was lucky to be coached by a few American coaches in the last 3 season of my career, so I managed to learn a lot from them. Besides that, I read a lot of different stuff online, but my advice is to not take that for granted. If you read something and it sounds legit, remember it and try it at practice. If it does not go well, just forget it and move forward.


- What are some of the most common mistakes players transferring to coaches make (and/or how to avoid them)?

The most common mistake is that coaches (ex players) usually compare themselves to players they coach. They think they can do it better, or when they were playing they were doing some things better. NO! You can't do it better, because if you could, you would be on the field. So, my advice is to use every second to make your players better and stop comparing and think how you could maybe make a play.


- Becoming a GM. At one point of your football career, you have transferred back to Novi Sad GAT Dukes from Belgrade SBB Vukovi to take on a GM position. What are some of the main issues you as a GM had to face and how did you overcome them?

During my time with Vukovi, GAT Dukes got stronger and with one really big sponsor they were candidates for the championship title, but somehow in two seasons prior to me arriving, they did not succeed to accomplish that. I recognized that as a big challenge for me, to come back to my hometown and to try to win the championship title for the first time in teams history, with team that I started my football career.

The biggest issue was that I am not from the "business world" and I don't have connections that could help me at GM job. I was lucky to have a few good friends from the football world, who helped me with that and connected me with the right people. Next big issue that I had was that as a GM you are working 24/7. If you are not doing something for the team, you are thinking about what you need to do. Usually I was going to sleep with thoughts on what I needed to do tomorrow, and no, I did not overcome that issue :)


- Scouting. What are the key notes when scouting for a player and a coach? How to see the red flags in advance? And, how to be sure the person you're looking into is the person you definitely want to sign to your team?

Scout, Talk, Scout, Talk, Scout, TALK TALK TALK TALK. It is not always as good as it looks on film. Even if it's good as it looks on film, maybe that player will still not be a great fit for your team. When you think you found the right guy, based on film you watched, you start investigating about his past. Besides talking to him, try talking to his ex-coaches, ex-team or even ex-teammates, whoever can give you any feedback, it will be good in your final decision.


- What should the teams do to make their imports feel welcomed?

People will probably say that is mistake, but I personally like to treat imports like friends. They are not professional players and in most cases, they are not just here to take your money, play the game and go back home. They are here to live life like all other athletes on your team, the "only" difference is that their home is cca 5000 miles away. Do small things to make them happy. Invite them to your place on lunch, drive them around to show them the city, or, if you can, take them to a trip around your country.
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BoxVideos: Topliga Playoff Highlights

June 16, 2017, 8:57 pm
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BoxVideos Topliga highlights! Guys behind BoxVideos are Dawid Bialy - The most popular American football commentator/speaker in Poland, and Patryk Madmanski (Madman Project) music composer.

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Interview: Denis Czarzasty Is Taking Video Editing In Football To A New Level

June 26, 2017, 8:29 pm
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Everyone involved with American Football in Europe had to see, at least once, one of the game highlights made by BoxVideos of Poland. Denis Czarzasty is the master mind behind BoxVideos, and besides bringing you weekly Topliga and PLFA1 highlights, we had to share his story as well!

BoxVideos

The main goal of BoxVideos is to help clubs promote their sponsors and partners.

I am the one doing all the work. However, I have help with different projects (for example "Topliga") -  photographers, commentator Dawid White, and some other people thanks to whom I can focus on the assembly.

The other side of BoxVideos are the highlight tapes for American football players. This is hard work with materials that are often poor quality. Fortunately, game film is getting better and the productions are more interesting. I always try to be the best at what I do - just like the person I'm making a movie with. I focus the most on the player to be visible and well marked. This is what sets me apart from others.

In Europe there are many people who do highlight tapes, and when I check their productions I see in them that they inspire my solutions. I try to make every next movie better, and my best highlight tape is definitely the next one.

Highlight Tapes

Everyone wants me to make the highlight tape as fast as possible. (Players want to have the lowest price, the highest quality in the shortest possible time :))

To create a highlight tape, I need links to the players games and the time when the player's action begins or prepared fragments in the form of video files. For this I need some pictures. This is the standard, some players want to have a promotional video and not a recruiting film. Then the recording must be very good quality and better from several different cameras. The statistics and recorded statements by coaches or teammates are an additional detail.

Memorable Moments

It may seem simple, but the most important moment in what I do is to satisfy my clients. Thank you, good job, great, it's perfectly the best reward for doing a good job. I try to make every player, club, company satisfied with our cooperation. I work on several levels and my goal is to satisfy a few groups of people: sponsors, clubs/players, fans, and myself.

Future Goals

Highlight tapes market is a tile. I do not know if it is sufficient in the long run. A natural step forward will be making movies for clubs and/or players and not creating highlight tapes, as it is today. Clubs are investing more and more in video content. An excellent element of this are the graphics and in that I would like to specialize on the use of graphics in video materials.

In order to grow football in Europe, we need to create better and more interesting content every year.
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Italy: American Bowl International Camp Trieste

July 1, 2017, 11:21 pm
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:::Press release:::

AMERICAN BOWL INTERNATIONAL CAMP TRIESTE
13 14 15 JULY 2017


The AMERICAN BOWL is reaching its 14th edition and the guest star will be MIKE SINGLETARY.

AMERICAN BOWL was established in 2001, it is a non profit event where all people working around it are volunteers, an event where players and coaches could meet american players and or coaches to develop a better football in Europe.

Trieste city due to its history is the perfect spot as it is the cross-point of latin, slavic and german cultures.

The first edition gave the chance to local players to practice with different High School Teams from USAthat visited Trieste.

Due to 9/11 the event was not possible till 2005 when organization started to set an annual event:
AMERICAN BOWL - THE GAME.

The International game was the main event between 2005 and 2011, during this time frame 6 NCAA
DIVISION III teams, the Slovenian and the Croatian Team played in Trieste. The organization was looking for something more and in 2010 the AMERICAN BOWL CAMP was started. Since 2010 we had in the coaching Staff these former NFL players: BROCK OLIVO , LAMONT WARREN, SAM
ROGERS, BOB AVELLINI, MATT JOYCE, DAVID OLIVO, KEN LANIER, MARK RYPIEN, STEVE BONO and legendary JOE MONTANA !

And this year we will have: KRIS HAINES, EMERY MOOREHEAD, OSHIOMOGO ATOGWE, SHAUN GAYLE and another legend like MIKE SINGLETARY!!! All those big names were always together with best European Coaches available. But Camp is not only for players but also for Coaches.

The coaches attending the Camp are eager to learn how to do it by watching the Coaching Staff on the field. They interact continuously and there are dedicated Class session where they can discuss the work done on the field and/or discuss about x and o's and everything connected to the coaching job.

Having MIKE SINGLETARY here with his experience as an head Coach in the NFL is something unique in Europe!

On this edition we will also do some Charity as we will host organization “DIVERSAMENTE” that organize events for kids affected by down syndrome. T-shirts of the organization will be sold at Camp and on Saturday morning some kids will throw and run the football and have some fun on the field.

This year the Camp will last 3 days from 13th till 15th July !
www.americanbowl.org
www.facebook.com/camptrieste/
americanbowlcamp@gmail.com
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Serbia: Novi Sad Led By OC/QB Griggs Is Headed To The Serbian Bowl

July 5, 2017, 1:48 am
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If we were to ask anyone in Serbia, prior to 2017 season, which teams would go to the Serbian Bowl - the answer would be Belgrade SBB Vukovi and Kragujevac Wild Boars. However, once the season started, Belgrade Blue Dragons jumped in with a winning strike making the season more interesting, while the Novi Sad GAT Dukes were still being overlooked. No one thought Novi Sad could pull it off, even after they advanced to the playoffs.

Novi Sad played Belgrade SBB Vukovi in the semifinals, and the game was pretty much done if the first half - where QB Griggs along with his teammates put 33 points on the board, and the defense allowed Vukovi to score just one TD. This was the very first win for the Dukes against the Vukovi in Belgrade, ever! The only other W Novi Sad managed to score in Belgrade against Vukovi was during a U19 season, years ago.

We were quite surprised by the playoff match outcome, so we had to sit down with Christopher Griggs - who is both OC and QB, as well as Luka Vujnovic - LB and who is also one of the team GMs.

"We started this season knowing that 3 teams (Vukovi, Wild Boars and Dukes) will compete for the championship. Although we lost those both games in the regular season, we managed to raise our performance before the playoffs and won semifinals in Belgrade 7:33 and here we are - fighting for the championship title. I think that good chemistry in the team and hard work payed off. The hardest part was the start, where we were getting our team together and once all the 'pieces of the puzzle' were there, we started grinding for the final goal." - says Luka Vujnovic.

Luka is the one to "take the blame" for signing Griggs. Prior to the season kick-off, we saw a Facebook post by Griggs, where he talked about his football experience in The States, and how he would constantly get overlooked as a QB. We checked out his film, and now, one thing is for sure - his highlights don't show what he can actually do.

Photo: Bosko Bunusevac

Once we asked him about it, this is what Griggs said:

"I’ve been playing football since I was 6, as QB. Once I got into high-school scrutiny started - I wasn’t tall enough, no one would give me a fair opportunity to play QB. I would usually get: “Go another route and play WR”, because I didn’t fit the QB stereotype. Even when playing at QB, I wasn’t getting a fair opportunity to do what I wanted to do. I was ready to do all it takes – one play at a time.

I wanted to come to Europe because I knew I will have a better chance. I would love to build a long term career in Europe, and my experience is so far great, and this is something I’m willing to do down the line, or to even make a permanent move to Europe.

Before coming to Serbia, I was still supposed to be at college, but at the same time, I knew I wouldn’t get a fair shot playing in school. I would be labeled as the guy who runs the ball. I had less options, so I told myself I will take a chance and prove my worth and ability that I can lead the offense as QB.

That’s when I came across Luka Vujnovic and the Novi Sad GAT Dukes. They were willing to let me do what I wanted to do, and here we are, ready to go to a Championship next week!"

Luka couldn't agree more with his OC/QB, and has pretty much confirmed everything Griggs said: "We signed Chris as our QB because he showed a lot of interest in our program and truly wanted to be a part of it. He also showed us a lot of football knowledge which he inherited from his father who has been a college football coach for many years. Also our head coach Vladislav Petkovic recognized his physical abilities and we pretty much found the same language with Chris from the very first message and we knew he was the right guy for us."

Photo: Igor Lazarevic

The quality of football played in Serbia may vary from team to team, where there'd usually be 3-4 top teams, and the rest would try to catch up. Not too different from other leagues that are still developing. However, Serbian national team has had quite a success. The level of club competition is on the rise, especially on the European scene - within CEFL and the recently shut down IFAF Europe Champions League. However, Serbia is still not the "hot spot" or the #1 choice for most American coaches and imports, so why signing with the Dukes?

Christopher Griggs: "Dukes were a team that was willing to give me a shot to come in and be myself, not be a robot who does what they want me to do. They let me run my own offense. You can’t ask for nothing better than that. Be the QB I know I can be, and not controlling my type of play at the same time. Everywhere else before that, I’d be controlled, and Dukes let me be me.

Other teams I talked to weren’t as engaged as the Dukes - Luka wanted to know the real me, and kept communicating with me. No one really communicated with me as much as Dukes did.

When I first saw the Serbian league, I could tell the league is starting to expand. More teams were getting imports, and that’s how teams would get better. The league is in young stages of development compared to Germany or Austria.

The only thing that Dukes lacked were the fundamentals. People need to learn the mechanics to be the best player they can be. I was hoping to help everyone get their fundamentals, and get the coaching they weren’t able to get. It’s about getting everyone to be consistent and do their job. I wanted to implement everyone working as a team. Be the best player for your team, without thinking like you’re the only one on the field.

Being the OC as well, is everything you can ask for, running your own show. When you’re running an offense, it’s all on you to make sure everything is in the place where it’s supposed to be in. My dad has really helped me and grew me into the QB I am today, which helped now when I got the chance to coach and play. It’s not too much pressure being the OC, I love it!

At this point, I get respect from my guys. They listen and do what they need to do on the field. They know it translates into our team getting better.

I was looking for a long term deal, and most likely, I’ll re- sign with the Dukes. The impact I’d like to make – I wouldn’t do many changes, but just getting the consistency on a higher level. I'd love to work more with the juniors and younger guys, who are becoming more interested in the game, to give them the opportunity to help expand their game and one day be able to play in the first division or even move up to the big team.

I am so grateful for having the opportunity to be a part of the Dukes, where I can be the QB I want to be. Without them giving me an opportunity I’d still be at home looking for a place to play QB."

Photo: Ivan Miladinovic
Which does bring us to the most recent Novi Sad game - the semifinals. It was a win no one saw coming for Novi Sad. However, Griggs was confident.

"My gameplan vs Belgrade SBB Vukovi was rather the same like we played them the first time, during the regular season, although that time around we lost. My main objective was to beat them at the line of scrimmage. Set the speed and tempo to get their players tired. We have a very good offense and we’re hard to match up against, and it was all about getting our team fully together to go, and keep banging on them until the game is done.

Bottom line is that we were focused on our game and getting our job done.

We look at the upcoming Championship like any other game. We will train a little harder though, but it’s nothing different than any other game we played. We will go in like we went to play Vukovi in the playoffs. We’re not really changing anything with our approach in coaching. Preparing like we were preparing for the whole season, but just a bit more focused."

Novi Sad has always competed in the CEFL (Central European Football League) with a few breaks. 2 years ago, they managed to get the double title - both in CEFL and SAAF. This year, it was quite a surprise to see them in the CEFL lower division - The CEFL Cup. The new rule stated that only max of 2 teams from the same country can compete in the league, and those two spots were taken by Vukovi and Wild Boars.

"I honestly think we can compete in the CEFL league, after winning the CEFL Cup. Dukes are on a bigger level than teams in the Cup, our level would be a better match for the CEFL, and Dukes did play in CEFL for quite a few years, and won the Bowl a few years ago. I’d love to have the opportunity for the Dukes to play in CEFL next year, to get the exposure they deserve. It would be great to play against some of the biggest teams in Europe."


What's even more interesting, is that this is Griggs' first season in Europe. However, he seems very comfortable, like he's been playing in Europe for a longer period of time.

"Be prepared for a culture shock. Many people speak English, but they don’t speak English. It’s a learning process and something you need to adapt to for the 6+ months.

In America, the game goes to another level every year. Coming to Europe – field is different a bit, not as big as in USA. Maybe your roster will not be a big one. Understand the territory you’re coming to – but football in Europe is not bad at all, although it’s been up and running for a lot less than in USA.

When negotiating with the team make sure that accommodation is taken care of and that all you have to do is focus on football, without stressing out on other things."

Serbian Bowl is scheduled for July 8th, between Kragujevac Wild Boars and Novi Sad GAT Dukes. Game will be broadcasted on TV, as well as online.
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Hall Of Fame: Lee Hlavka, Coach

July 6, 2017, 3:59 am
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Touchdown Europe Hall of Fame, or, TDEU Approved, features some of the best coaches and players (domestic and import) across Europe. A place where coaches and players are highlighted for their work on and off the field.

For more information on how to get nominated, visit our HOF Nomination Form page.


HALL OF FAME

LEE HLAVKA, COACH

American football and Baseball coach with 30+ years of coaching experience. Inducted in the Wisconsin baseball Hall of Fame.

Head Coach at Budapest Wolves - 2004-2014, leading the team to 5 Hungarian champion titles.




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Hall Of Fame: Anthony Stitt, RB

July 27, 2017, 11:50 am
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Touchdown Europe Hall of Fame, or, TDEU Approved, features some of the best coaches and players (domestic and import) across Europe. A place where coaches and players are highlighted for their work on and off the field.

For more information on how to get nominated, visit our HOF Nomination Form page.


HALL OF FAME

ANTHONY STITT, RB






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The World Games: "Team USA" or Team USA? Or, What Happened In Wroclaw?

July 28, 2017, 11:30 pm
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The World Games in Wroclaw had American football as an invitational sport, where Poland, Germany, France and USA competed for the gold. World Games are set to be a platform for non-Olympic sports, such as Lacrosse, Tug of war, Artistic rollerskating, Sumo, Lifesaving etc. Hosting country has the right to add in a few sports - where Poland chose American Football as one of the invitational sports.


To become part of The World Games programme, the sport must be widely spread in the world and the specific international sports federation must be a member of the IWGA. In each sport, only the best athletes or teams may participate, as determined by the international sports federations. In most classes, it is necessary to qualify by a top ranking at the world championships or a qualification tournament to be able to participate. (source: Wikipedia)


Allegedly, World Games requested for Team USA to be a part of it. Again, this paragraph is an alleged story that has been going around for a while. Since USA Football doesn't recognize IFAF Paris as the International Federation (plus USA Football has been suspended along with a few other top football countries) - IFAF Paris kicked out USA Football, and recognized a new federation - The U.S. Federation of American Football, which would deliver the "Team USA".

Now, the question we all ask is - How can any international federation take away the National Team rights from one country federation and give to another, since, the government of the country is the one to give the national team rights to an organization they recognize (in this particular case - United States of America recognize USA Football).

USFAF was formed in 2009, and was operating the "USA Eagles" program, led by Coach Rudy Wyland. You can read more about the IFAF USFAF recognition HERE.


“We will form National Teams for all the disciplines governed by IFAF”, he (Coach Wyland) stressed. (source: ifaf.info)

Preparations for World Games started, however, players who were chosen for the 45-man roster didn't know what was going on until 4-5 days before the kick off. Due to lack of funds - scheduled camps were cancelled, and players would fly straight to Wroclaw. Training camps were cancelled last minute - where guys were pulling connections to even book the venues (Poland, Germany, and then USA).

During this time, we started following the story, as quite a few guys were expressing their concerns if the team would even fly to Poland. At this point everyone took leave from work, and was waiting for the green light to head to the airport.

- We were told to stay on a 24 hour standby for a week and a half to be ready to travel as sponsor money went through to book our flights. We all took off work in preparation of this travel standby. 

After numerous requests for information by just about every player on the team multiple times a day with no concrete information, we received word 4 days prior to kick-off that the sponsor fell through and we would have to cover all travel costs ourselves.

We were required to produce our own playing equipment and helmets, but jerseys were to be covered by the team. - said one of the players.

At the same time there was an on-going crowdfunding campaign, which raised less than 2,000 dollars, out of 75,000. CLICK HERE to see the campaign. Campaign is still active.

At this point, most guys decided they will not be going, as this would turn into 'pay-to-play'. Other federations were contacted to help fund plane tickets to bring the team over. The new problem was (besides that there was no budget) that there is no team. World Games were close to having football removed, however IFAF Paris promised they will deliver a team from USA.

4 days prior to kickoff, IFAF Paris changed the rule so that the 45-man roster can be changed, and now, anyone within football, with an American passport could join in, as long as they could get to Wroclaw on their own, and a letter has been sent out to invite the guys, as well as a few invitational posts on Facebook.


American players were the ones to bring IFAF Paris/USFAF a win, since IFAF Paris/USFAF didn't really have to do much, nor bring the players over, while the players did represent their country, however, not via the official USA national team. Quite a few Americans had a change of heart, after deciding not to participate, due to seeing some of their fellow Americans trying to make this team happen.

The biggest concern was getting the team prepared. Players were arriving a day or two before the kickoff, while some came in on the day of the game. First practice was the night before the game. Guys were risking major injuries. Poland gave up their practice time and gave it to the Americans the day before their game, while France also offered any help the team may need.

A few GFL teams didn't let their imports participate, which is understandable, due to such a high risk or getting injured. There were rumors that the teams didn't want to let their Americans play, since the first game was Germany vs USA. Also, the German national team staff seemed to be divided on the issue about the rule change about roster submission. HC and manager were really trying to work with the Americans for the betterment of the tournament, in fact, the HC brought a WR on 1st gameday and said if IFAF Paris was cool with him playing - he could suit that day, but a few other coaches didn't agree, and addressed that it would be cheating.

Lets get down to numbers. Guys were told they'd have to pay a fee to stay at the dorm, as well as a fee for the food in the cafeteria (140eur per day to be exact). This requirement was later dropped. We tried checking the information whether the LOC was charging a fee for accommodation/food - and we were told that LOC was taking care of these things for the World Games participants.

Guys wanted to keep their jerseys, which would be fair, as they pretty much sponsored the team showing up at the World Games, but despite that, they were told they could buy the jerseys for a bit less than 150 dollars. Players passports were kept, and would get returned once the uniform was turned in. What did the players do? They stole their passports back. Police was called, where the only response from the police who arrived to the dorm, was that the guys didn't do anything illegal, and that the illegal thing was for non-government personnel to hold their passports.

How everything around the team from USA was unorganized, reflected on the field (last minute arrival, no decent practice), where Germany beat USA 14:13, while USA won against Poland for the bronze 14:7.

Despite all the mess and chaos, players have proven again that football starts from them. They are the ones who carry the game on their backs, and everyone holding titles/positions in organizations should be there to help the sport advance.

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Malaga Corsairs Are About To Hit Their Crowdfunding Goal - You Can Help Too!

July 29, 2017, 5:52 pm
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Malaga Corsairs are a new football programme in Spain, and coach Rafael Marquez Montes has been working hard to get everything ready to start the season. Team currently has 30 players an 6 coaches.

Malaga's vision in the following seasons is to create a steady program in the Andalusian league and start youth and women's selections too, as well as form a football school. They want to create a team that everyone is proud of.

Campaign is currently at 8,500eur, where 10,000 is the goal.

- The crowdfunding campaign is receiving a massive response from the city. About 300 people have member's club card assigned already. Sponsors are starting to take interest in our project. Restaurants, hairdressing saloons, pubs, stores, etc which have been long in our city want to become a Corsair business and show their support in their businesses. People from all ages is joining this boarding with their Corsairs. We are very happy of the response of our City, our people, to the team. We feel really proud. - says Coach Rafael Marquez Montes.



Coach Montes has been around football for quite some time, where currently, besides Málaga Corsairs (Spanish C Division), he is also the OC for Portugal National Team.

He was also an asst coach, and later the HC at Zilina Warriors, where the team went from 0-10 to a 12-2 record within only two years, and almost one the championship, unfortunately team lost in the last second. He also served as the HC's Offensive Asst at Slovak National Team, and was awarded with Slovak Coach of the Year in 2013 an 2014. At Barbera Rookies, Coach Montes served as the OC and Consultant, with 10-1 record and promotion to Spanish Div 1.

To check the crowd funding campaign, please click HERE.
Malaga Corsairs Facebook page - click HERE.


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