By SOPHIE MCCARRICK [email protected]
With high hopes of establishing one of America’s most renowned sporting acts in the Algarve, an American football team is currently in the process of being set up in Portimão.
American Algarve resident and member of the social action association, Rede Vidamais (Life-Plus Network), Don Dixon is heading up the new team with aims of building partnerships with the three-year-old Portuguese League of American Football within a year or two of establishment.
Appealing to all Algarve residents and those who share a common interest or passion for the sport, Don is seeking all the help he can get from anyone who has knowledge, experience or interest in the game that will enable them to help coach or become a player on the team.
The team will be open to anyone from 16 years of age and up.
As it stands, more than 30 young residents have already registered to experience the sport of American football and assist in the initiative’s growth.
While the necessary protective equipment is arranged and collected, practices will begin in Portimão as Flag Football, which will allow for players to learn the rules of the game and develop game skills in order to begin full-contact American Football in September.
American football is a commonly played sporting game in America that consists of two teams of 11 with the objective of scoring points by advancing the ball into the opposing team’s ‘end zone’.
Don told the Algarve Resident: “Almost all of those playing in the Portuguese League are men who love the sport and the nature of the game. The league is currently comprised of six teams, all of which are amateur teams and non-professional.
“However, the number of teams is expected to increase, probably double, within the next year or two as interest is growing rapidly and new teams are being organised in a number of different Portuguese cities,” he added.
The first organisational meeting for the new team will be held on May 29 at 7.30pm in the downstairs banquet room of restaurant Sabores, Satisfação Gastronómica, located on Rua 25 de Abril, Lote 20, Portimão 8500.
All with interest in the sport and who wish to participate in the new team are welcome and encouraged to attend.
For further information or for anyone interested in assisting with coaching or in playing for the team, please contact Don on 960 387 408 or [email protected]
