American Football scores a hit in UK
“Try it!” — a rallying call from Portsmouth Dreadnought player
American Football is the biggest sport in the United States, with over 37% of people claiming it as their favourite sport.
However, up until recently, opportunities for people to play American Football in the UK have been few and far between.
But that could be changing — with every Superbowl the sport grows in popularity, and recently Portsmouth’s very own American Football team have had some success.
The Portsmouth Dreadnoughts recently achieved a second-place finish in their season, earning a spot in the play-offs.
While preparing for life in Division One, Dreadnoughts player Tom Usai discussed how he found the sport he now adores.
Like many others in England, Tom hasn’t always played American football, and found his route into the sport through a friend.
After falling out of love with rugby, Tom was encouraged to attend a training session four years ago with the Dreadnoughts and was immediately hooked.
Tom said: “I instantly caught the bug for it and all the players made me feel part of the team.”
He now plays Offensive and Defensive line and has been with the Dreadnoughts his whole career.
Getting promoted from Division Two is one of Tom’s greatest achievements in American football and he also takes great pride in his recent step into coaching.
“I now coach at a university level and am entering my first year as Offensive Co-ordinator at the University of Chichester.”
It is very rare that, other than the NFL, American football will get any media coverage.
“It doesn’t get the coverage due to our culture of rugby and football in England,” said Tom.
“Most people you talk to won’t understand the sport and that is why they don’t tune in and watch.
“It’s definitely growing here but information being readily available is the only thing that will raise its profile.”
Tom speaks highly of the sport and said it was the best decision he’s ever made to join the team.
“Try it! It’s a great way to get active and has a wonderful team environment.
“The best part is anyone can do it and when I say anyone, I mean anyone!
“If you put your all in to it, you will get better and enjoy your progress — so just try it out.”
If you’re looking for a new sport to play, or even just to watch and follow, visit the Portsmouth Dreadnoughts website — it could be the perfect sport for you!
