Running back Harry does it the American way at Blue Raiders

A SHOP assistant from St Ives is causing a storm in the world of American Football after signing up with the Bedfordshire Blue Raiders.

Harry Burdon, 21, has impressed Raiders head coach Chris Wallis since signing up with the team for the forthcoming season.

Wallis, who is also from St Ives, said: "Like many of our players, Harry is a rookie and has a lot to learn. However, he is big, strong and has a good burst of speed for a man of his size."

Burdon, who uses his 230lbs to good effect at running back, said: "I always wanted to play American Football when I was growing up. It's a tough sport but it is very rewarding and is different to everything I've tried before.

"I enjoy the contact and there is an excellent team spirit at the club - a group of us travel to Bedford from St Ives - which makes it all the more enjoyable."

Burdon, who works in the Rainbow Store in St Ives, travels to Bedford International Athletics Stadium every Sunday for intensive, three-hour coaching sessions.

Wallis added: "Harry has a lot of natural ability and, if he continues to train hard, looks to have a very bright future in the sport."

Bedfordshire Blue Raiders recruit players from a number of surrounding counties as they look to build a squad to compete in the British American Football League.

Wallis said: "I'm pleased with the way our squad is developing at the moment. We have good competition for places but we are always looking for new players to enhance the squad.

"It is rewarding to see that players like Harry are prepared to travel from quite far afield. It shows that players find the training sessions constructive and enjoyable."

INFORMATION: Anyone interested in playing for Blue Raiders should contact Chris Wallis on 01954 231355 or visit www.bedfordshireblueraiders.co.uk