Exiles Academy 2024 Season Review
Read what Academy lead Steve Lewis had to say about the 2024 season…
Our regular season began with a home tournament in April; with a roster of 13 players (only two of whom had ever played contact football before). Turnovers were key as we lost both our games by just 4 points each. A crucial lost fumble during an opportunity to run out the clock was the deciding score in game 1, whilst, what would have been a winning touchdown for us, was called back, correctly for a holding penalty in game 2. We suffered another 4 point loss in game 3. A 45 yard touchdown run on our very first play in game 4 was a false dawn, as we failed to score again and were well beaten with injuries becoming a significant factor. Following a fumble recovery we took an early lead against our eventual Division Champions in our 3rd tournament. A 13-22 half time differential widened after the break but perhaps did not truly reflect how competitive this game was. New recruits to the team playing in their first ever game had made a tremendous difference, particularly on offence. Game 6 ended with our player tackled on the opponent’s 1 yard line as time expired and a 7 point loss.
Our final tournament began with a resounding 40-0 first win of the season. The defence, including 2 new Linebackers in their first ever game, contributed 14 points and prevented a score from first and goal from our 2 yard line. 26 Points from the offence was also a season high. The final game was a rematch against the already crowned Division Champions. A 6-6 tie at the half remained deep into the second half. On 4th down with less than a minute to go, we conceded a second score but regained the football. Unfortunately, the clock expired during our last drive with a final score of 6-12. Our opponents said that this was their toughest game of the season thus far. The team of 19 players at the 4th and final tournament represented a significant increase (46%) from the beginning of the season. Of these, 18 are eligible to return to our Under 16 Team next year.
Changing practice from Sunday to Saturday has helped recruitment. We also now have a solid coaching staff with 3 other enthusiastic young coaches joining during the season. I am very much looking forward to what I believe will be a strong season next year. Plans include a preseason friendly home tournament, a zoom call for parents to explain and hopefully help their understanding and enjoyment of the game and referring player(s) to GB trials, the NFL & SGS Bristol Academies.
My appreciation and thanks to: – The other coaches for their help and support. Our players for their time, dedication, effort and concentration. Kenny Ibronke (player parent) for his ongoing recruitment efforts for the team. Parents for helping with transport, your support and entrusting your young men to our care. Claire and Dave for help with registrations and kit.
