Southwark-based British American Football club the London Olympians are looking forward to a “tasty season” after the release of ‘The Battle for the Capital’ fixture list.
The new 2021 regional format announced by the British American Football Association will pitch all four London clubs against each other in a one-off season.
Starting in July, after two years of waiting due to Covid-19 restrictions, the Burgess Park-based Olympians will take on each opponent – the London Blitz, London Warriors and Kent Exiles – twice for a total of six games over three months.
The first game July 11 will see the London Olympians travel to the London Warriors in their first competitive match since July 2019, following the season’s cancellation as the country responded to Covid-19.
Following this prolonged period of stagnation for the sport, the desire to get back on the field is intense.
“I am so happy for this season to begin – at last,” offensive coordinator coach Murray Dumas said: “It has been a long time coming and our group is extremely challenging, but exciting times lie ahead.”
Olympians team captain and offensive lineman Victor Olamide added: “With arguably the strongest conference in the country, there is no easy way to play out these games.
“An opener as good as a National Championship game leads us into back-to-back grudge matches with a Blitz team that we went toe-to-toe with in our last game played.
“Then, finishing the season off with a Championship sandwich with Warriors wedged between two shots at the Kent Exiles for good measure, it’s going to be a tasty season.”
Meanwhile, the club have made a number of recent signings. Offensive line James Watson previously played for Bury Saints. He said: “I can’t wait to get playing with the Olympians. I’m enjoying the training, the teamwork and the offensive mentality and cannot wait to walk out on that pitch in the team colours.”
Former Brighton Panthers defensive back Libra Campbell-Peel added: “After spending time with the Olympians and experiencing their openness to new talent I believe this is a great place to bring my skill-set after uniball”.
Another offensive line, Frank Rose, was previously a rugby player. “I’m really happy to be signing with the Olympians for the 2021 season, with a great coaching staff. I’m hoping to mark my stamp on the field. [It’s] a very competitive, athletic team to be involved with.”
Running back Adam Spero joins the team as a Rookie.
“Joining the Olympians has greatly improved my love for the sport, and being part of a strong team culture,” he said. “I’m looking forward to running fast and putting some big hits on.”
The club recently got confirmation that they would be moving officially to Southwark Athletics Centre in Southwark Park for their team training each Sunday, starting from June 13.
Meanwhile, they are still looking for players. Anyone interested can email: recruitment@olympiansfootball.org.