WHAT IS REQUIRED FOR YOU TO BE ABLE TO PLAY FOR THE BARRACUDA?

BUAFL ELIGIBILITY RULES:

You must be a University student at The University of Bristol, in any year of study prior to graduation.

You are eligible to play whether you are on a part-time or full-time course

If, for whatever reason, you don't meet either of these requirements then email Coach Stone, and he will explain what you have to do to meet eligibilty requirements, or put you in touch with a team that you can play for.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

"I have never played American Football before, does that matter?"
Most of our players have never played American Football before joining the Barracuda. Our experienced and extensive coaching staff will teach you the rules and techniques of the game, and turn you into an American Football player in no time at all. All you need is the ability to listen, learn and have a will to win.

"Do I need my own equipment?"
No! American Football Equipment is expensive, roughly £300 for an average full set of equipment. The club has a supply of equipment which it loans to its players for the season. But some of our players have purchased their own equipment, and if you are interested in buying any items, then get in touch with Coach Fear, and he can negotiate you a discount price with our suppliers.

All you need to bring along, is a pair of Rugby Boots, Trainers and a coloured mouthguard/gumshield.

"How far can I go in the sport?"
How far you go is really up to you? Our coaches will give you the best coaching available in the UK, from there it is down to you! You will have the opportunity to represent the Southern Allstar Team, and even the chance to represent Great Britain in the Bulldogs annual tours of the USA. In addition to this many of our players go on to play Summer Football with local Senior side, the Bristol Aztecs.

AIM HIGH! If you're good enough the Barracuda coaching staff will recommend you to the National Programme where you will get looked at by NFL Europe. If you have the desire, the coaching staff can put you in touch with NCAA College programmes.

In addition to the above, various clubs in Europe, North America, South East Asia and Australasia pay players to play. Impress with the Cuda and you could spend you summers with free accomodation, food, car and a wage, sunning it in New Zealand, Germany, Norway or the like.

"How can I learn more about American Football?"
If you are a complete beginner to the sport, check out the NFLUK beginners guide to American Football. Other good ways to learn more about Football, are to watch the NFL Coverage on Sunday evenings on Sky Sports Extra and Sunday & Monday evenings coverage on Channel 5. American Football films also give a good insight into the game. Unusually, EA Sports' John Madden American Football Video Games are an excellent way of learning more about the sport. But there is no better way about learning the sport than strapping a helmet and shoulder pads and going out and playing it!

FRESH AND BEYOND...

You can join the Cuda at any point in the season but the majority of our players join the team at Bristol University Fresh in the first week of October. If you are an experienced player an are coming to play, we'd like you to get in touch before Fresh if possible. Drop Head Coach Tim Stone and email to make us aware of your intent.

If you want to join the best university sports team in Bristol, and miss us at Fresh, then drop Coach Stone a line on 07970 233951. He will let you know about how you can go about joining the team. Likewise if you are not a student at either of the Bristol University but attend a college in the Bristol area, Filton College, or City of Bristol College.