Team crowned British American Football Association National Plate champions
Edinburgh Napier University’s Youth American Football team claimed silverware last weekend as the Edinburgh Napier Knights Under 16 team won the British American Football Association National Plate.
The Knights travelled overnight to play in the National Finals weekend at Stafford Stadium and secured an 18-6 win over the Kent Exiles after defeating the Northants Knights 36-14 in the semifinal.
Leo Colvin was named the tournament MVP and was one of three younger siblings of players in the university varsity team, making it a real family affair.
The under 16 team is part of the Youth American Football teams run at Sighthill campus by current students and graduates from the University.
Founded in 2017 by lecturer Pete Laird, the team was created to integrate the University with the local community, with the aim to engage young people in sport, increase their self-esteem, and improve their quality of life in the local community. There are currently more than 100 young people registered at Under 19, 16, and 12 (Flag) playing the sport under the Napier name.
The project has been an outstanding success both on and off the field with players continuing to further and higher education and graduates progressing on to professional teams. This summer Knights players have played professionally in Finland, Germany, Austria, and in Arena Ball in the USA.
The Varsity team returns this September as they aim to defend their Scottish Championship after claiming their fifth title last season.
Plate Champions graphic copyright: BAFA.