Unforgettable Season Ends in Bowl Victory for SGS PRIDE

The season concluded in spectacular fashion as the SGS PRIDE American Football team secured a bowl victory, marking an incredible achievement given the circumstances. With numerous new faces and second-year sixth formers stepping up to compete in a university-level competition, the journey was anything but easy. However, the resilience and determination shown throughout the season have been truly remarkable.

Head Coach Benjamin Herod reflected on the team's success, stating:

"For this season to finish with a bowl win, with so many new faces and second-year sixth formers competing in a university competition, is a fantastic achievement. We had really tough narrow victories over Portsmouth and Cardiff during the regular season where our young players had to dig deep and mature as athletes and then a really physical semi-final against a well-coached Leeds team that pushed us far closer than the scoreline would suggest. Warwick, in the final, was the best defense we have faced all year but it was also the best our offense played all year in response. It was great to see our defense keep a clean sheet with how important they have been to our team’s success all year."

The regular season was a test of character, with hard-fought, narrow victories over Portsmouth and Cardiff demanding that our young players dig deep and mature as athletes. Each game served as a stepping stone, shaping the team’s identity and sharpening their skills in preparation for the challenges ahead.

The semi-final against Leeds was a particularly physical encounter, proving to be much closer than the final scoreline might suggest. Leeds, a well-coached and disciplined team, pushed us to our limits. However, our players rose to the occasion, demonstrating the grit and perseverance that have been the foundation of our success all season.

In the final, we faced Warwick—undoubtedly the strongest defensive team we encountered all year. Yet, in response, our offense delivered its best performance of the season. It was a battle of strategy and execution, and the team rose to the challenge with skill and determination. On the defensive end, our players put up a flawless performance, keeping a clean sheet and further solidifying their crucial role in our season-long success.

Winning the bowl is a testament to the hard work, commitment, and resilience of every player and coach involved. This season will be remembered not only for the silverware but also for the growth and development of a young team that embraced every challenge and emerged victorious. Congratulations to everyone who played a part in this incredible journey!

At SGS, you can be part of a high-performance American football team while pursuing your degree. Our program allows students to balance their academic and athletic ambitions, providing top-tier coaching and competitive opportunities. If you're looking to take your game to the next level while earning a qualification, join SGS PRIDE and become part of our winning tradition!

‍