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Perfect record beckons for American football team
South East Legion under-19s are aiming to complete a perfect league season this weekend.The Legion, based in Maidstone, have already booked their place in next month’s national finals after winning six games out of six in Division 2 South.
South East Legion under-19s are aiming to finish the league season in style this weekend Picture: Gillett MediaThey finish the regular campaign in Berkshire on Saturday with matches against the Berkshire Renegades and Bristol Aztecs.One win would clinch the title but they also have an eye on maintaining their 100 per cent record.“It’s probably the best season we’ve had at this age level,” said coach Lee Parsons.“I put that down to the dedication and hard work of the kids and the dedication from the coaches to step up and give the kids the best opportunity to thrive under the system we’ve got.“Two of the games have been really close and the rest we’ve pretty much controlled the whole game.
South East Legion under-19s (grey) in action. Picture: Gillett Media“In the six games, we’ve scored nearly 150 points and we’ve only conceded 43, so we’ve done really well. “The kids have bought into the system and the structure and the discipline. It’s been great to see. “We’ve had a good influx of talented kids, they take on instructions and learn in every single game.“They’ve stayed together as a group and that’s half the battle with our sport.“It’s about playing for each other and, if someone’s injured, stepping into a position and filling in to help the team.
South East Legion under-19s have dominated their division Picture: Gillett Media“And when players are injured, they’re still coming to training and games to support their team-mates.”Four teams qualify for the national finals and Parsons is optimistic the Legion will go all the way.He added: “It would be absolutely amazing. The way we’re playing, I don’t think it’s beyond the realms of possibility. “If we play as we’ve been playing, and how I think the kids can play, we can definitely be Division 2 national champions.”Coach’s son Adam Parsons plays offensive lineman for the Legion.
South East Legion under-19s in action Picture: Gillett MediaThe 18-year-old sustained a knee injury in the season opener, ruling him out of the next three games. But he’s featured in the last two and wants to help the team end the season in style.“The vibe around the team is really good this year,” said Adam.“Everyone’s coming to the games totally prepared.“It’s been way better than we were expecting. “When you go into your first game, you don’t know how you’re going to do.“The coaches always thought we were going to have a great season and go undefeated but we didn’t believe as players until after the first few games, and now it’s the main focus.
South East Legion under-19s (grey) have won all six league matches this season. Picture: Gillett Media“But it’s not just going 8-0, it’s going to the national finals and winning all those games as well.”Parsons has represented Great Britain at under-17 level.International American football is off the agenda for now, however, as he prepares to start university this autumn, hopefully at Leeds Beckett. “Playing for GB was one of the toughest things I’ve done but I’m a much better player for it,” he said.“When I look back on it now, and look at the photos, it’s something I can be proud of.”