Bath Cardinals
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Club Achievements.
The club has achieved so much in a very short time. In 2003, our first season, The Cardinals were winners at the Festival of Football and went unbeaten in the league with a perfect 6-0 record. This was a remarkable achievement in such a sort time and with a complete rookie squad. The head coach and 12 players were selected to represent Team England against Scotland and came out comfortable winners winning 29–3. In 2004 we were again winners at the Festival of Football and in the league we finished on equal league points with Bristol (5-1). Bristol won the league on the head to head league rule but Bath won the game that really mattered, the playoffs. On Bristol soil, we fluently won the playoffs 27- 0 to reach the British finals. Bath narrowly won the finals winning 18 - 14 in a well played and competitive game that could have gone either way.
I am aged between 16 – 19, How do I join the Bath AFC?
W eare welcoming young girls and boys between the ages of 16 to 19 years to join our Cardinal squad. We never exclude anyone who is interested in American Football so regardless of what preconceptions your have contact us for the facts. The best way to join is to simply turn up on a practice date and make yourself known to any sideline staff or coach. To check practice dates and times email the club who will confirm both.
How can I get involved if I don’t want to play?
We need a wide range of helpers from statisticians to committee members. Please note that our club will follow legislation laid down for anyone involved with children/young people under the age of 18 as we arec ommitted to providing a safe environment, therefore the necessary checks will be made.
When & where do you practice?
The team meets up for practice on a Sunday from 11am - 2pm at Avon RFC, Batheaston, Bath. If you need directions, feel free to email us, and we will be happy to help!
Coaching & Officiating.
The club will welcome any coach who wishes to help. The club also welcomes any person who wishes to learn (from scratch) to become a coach. This also applies to anybody wishing to become an official.
F A Q
How much do I have to pay?This will vary depending on a number of factors. Even so no less that£100 no more than £150. Cost are set for a range of items like coach fares to games, medical cover, insurance, replacement playing equipment, field equipment, and so on. No coaching member or club official is paid.
I don’t know the rules!No problem as we are very capable of teaching you. In fact we rather you don’t know any as we can teach you the way we would like you to play.
On TV it keeps starting and stopping, is it really like that?Well in the states they have to consider the numerous sponsors who paythe TV companies a lot of money. Therefore they take a lot of‘advertising breaks’. The game in the UK is alot faster with no unnecessary breaks. This leads to a fast and much more flowing game. Unfortunately too quick for some players who want to play for longer!
How much do I have to spend on kit?Very little, as most of the essential and compulsory items are supplied. As time goes on you will probably find that you will prefer to have some of your own equipment, like gloves, neck rolls, etc.
I have never played Rugby, is that a problem? No! Many of our squad have never played Rugby so this will not affect whether you are considered suitable.
I think I am too small?Think again! The team has built up a good reputation of producing great players although small. There are positions on offence, defence and special teams that do not dictate that you have to have some size.
Can I try before I commit to the team?Of course you can. This is encouraged by the coaching staff that truly believes that once you play you will enjoy this wonderful sport.
I don’t know anybody, is that a problem? No. We warmly welcome all players who want to play football. Our team spirit is first class.
Is it hard to play?Well, American Football is a contact sport played by varying shapes and ability. We do not recommend our sport to those who do not like ‘toughsports’ but remind you that other sideline and committee duties can be as rewarding as playing.
What do I need to bring to training? Rugby or football boots, shorts, gum shield and an open mind! Everything else is catered for.
I have a friend that would like to play, can he also come? Of course. We encourage any new player to bring a friend along.
What position do you think I could play?Well, the sport has many fascinating aspects that require different skills. The coaching staff like to try you out at different positions to try and find the best position that suits your ability.
As I will be a new player (we say Rookie) will I have a chance to play in a game? Yes,most certainly. You will notice that players are constantly changing during a game. We make sure that all players play a part in every game.This way we can all have fun!
Do you play in a league? Yes details are above. As a league side we have only ever lost one game in three years!
My Dad likes American Football, can he also get involved? Yes,we have several fathers that help out with our sides. This could be as an official (we teach you), a coach (we teach you) or a committee member, (we need your help!).
My Mum thinks American Football is dangerous, is it? Well it is a contact sport, but dangerous no! It has its risk like most contact sports, but American Football prides itself on its safety measures, common sense thinking and discipline. At Bath AFC we continually strive to make your game enjoyable fun and safe. Accidents and injuries will occur but no more than you would expect from Rugby, Soccer, Judo etc. Bath AFC have qualified coaches and experienced members who all continually assess these risks and we of course carry the necessary insurance you would expect. However we do stress that if you are concerned in any way that you consider not playing but helping with the various tasks required to run a successful club.
I have a question that is not covered in this section, who do I contact?
Visit the contact section of the site, under the about menu, for any other questions