Olympians looking for back to back league titles

The London Olympians face one of their biggest tests of the season on Sunday, when they travel to Ipswich to take on the Cardinals in the BAFA Community League Divison One South.

The Olympians beat the Cardinals 34-20 at Crystal Palace National Sports Centre back in April in a hard-fought victory and face them again on enemy territory on Sunday.Victory would all-but guarantee the conference title, the Olympians are 7-0 atop the conference with three games left and their nearest challengers, Sussex Thunder having already lost two games this season – both to the Olympians.

Offensive coordinator Warren Smart was Head Coach last season, when the Olympians won the Divison Two crown, and has been delighted with the team’s progression and strength in depth this season.“I don’t think there are that many differences between this season and last,” Smart said. “The new defensive coordinator, Scott Rowe, has made a big difference and the offense just keeps pushing forward.

“In the three years since the club has rebuilt everybody has contributed. At running back, Toyin Omodara continues to be our best running back, but has had injuries for the past few games and Adrian John, Junior Davis and Jordan Stokes have all stepped up.

“At receiver, Steve Leonard was studying last season and his return has helped us greatly. Bishop Adkins has given us experience at quarterback, but what has been most pleasing in the play of the offensive line.

“Steve Higgins at centre, Stephen George and Adam Hall have been great on the left with Richard Lasowski and Matt Luck solid on the right. And the backups, such as Alex Biberovic and Luke Whitney, have stepped in and when they go in there is no drop-off.”

The Olympians are interested in players aged 16 and older, potential coaches and helpers. They practise every Sunday at Crystal Palace National Sports Centre, SE19, every Sunday when there is no game and at Bellingham Leisure & Lifestyle Centre, SE6, every Wednesday night.

For more information contact team manager Marlene Price on 07956 520466 or e-mail: manager@olympiansfootball.org.