Kingston Cougars American Football team make it to Division One 

Photo by Elvis Ahfoe

For the first time since the coronavirus pandemic, the Kingston Cougars American football team have climbed the rankings and won their division.  

The team aimed high this season, setting their sights on reclaiming their spot in division one for the first time in seven years. Players have pushed themselves to the limit, and only lost one game throughout the six-match season.  

President of the Committee Jonny Kelsey said: “Winning the division means everything to me. This has been my fourth season with the team, so I’ve seen it grow from a few cones in a park, to what it is today, and it makes me feel immensely proud. 

“This year has been tough for everyone, as individuals with their own battles, and also as a team, but the resilience to overcome adversity is what’s really impressive about these boys!” 

Their first win of the season was a sweeping 22-0 victory against Greenwich Mariners. 

Their final win of the season was 14-6 against City St George’s University Wolfpack. Wide receiver Mohamed Al-Dawoodi made a catch leading to a 40+ yard gain that helped turn the game around.  

Hopeful for next season and a shot at new competitors, kit manager Ben Huddleston said: “I can’t wait for the upcoming games and the new challenges they will present next year. I know the team has what it takes to succeed in the higher division. 

“Even though I haven’t been able to participate in all games whilst I recovered from illness, seeing the boys return the kit covered in mud and scrapes after every practice and every game I could tell how much effort they were putting in.” 

The team are hopeful their new spot will help to secure further sponsorship next year. 

“The better we play the more coverage and vision we get from outside companies, increasing our sponsorships and how valuable our team can be. More sponsorships means better kit, and better kit means training more efficiently, our players can be safer and more players can kit up for each match so a chance for everyone to have time on the field,” said Huddleston. 

When asked his highlight of the season, Team President Jonny Kelsey said: “Watching everyone’s attitude change win after win, slowly believing we could actually do it. Those are the moments that really stay with you.” 

Training will continue for the team over the summer ahead of the beginning of the next season in September. 

“Next year is a challenge that we are confidently embracing. We’ve set realistic goals for the position we expect ourselves to be in and we’re all hoping that we exceed them like this year.”