Having only lost twice domestically over the previous 4 years, defence has been the bedrock of the Coventry Cassidy Jets' success. 2009 has so far been a different story as the National Champions have already lost three times whilst giving up a worrying 20 plus points a game. Such concerning numbers have prompted yet more new signings with the capture of Dustin Dlouhy and Frank Herlihy.
Born in Boise, Idaho, Dlouhy graduated from the University of Montana with a degree in Finance whilst earning an All-Conference Player award on the field. A major part of four Big Sky Conference Championships, Dlouhy ranks in the Grizzlies top ten all time for both sacks and tackles for loss. Joining the Jets he'll be reunited with Stuart Franklin as both recently helped the Valencia Firebats retain the Spanish Title with Dlouhy picking up the MVP award.
Dlouhy is no stranger to awards and was named to the All-Tournament first team after leading the US to the 2007 World Championship Title in Japan. A Valedictorian at his High School, Dlouhy commented that he'd decided to play with the Jets because "they are the premier team in the UK. I'd like to have a positive impact on the local community and the help the sport grow but most importantly I want to win another Championship with my new friends and team-mates".
Whilst Dlouhy will line up at defensive end his compatriot, Herlihy, will slot in behind him at linebacker. Recently relocated from Washington DC the 24 year old entrepreneur graduated Holy Cross College with a degree in economics and accounting whilst captaining the football team and earning Academic All-Conference honours twice. An all-state linebacker whilst at Bishop Timon High School, Herlihy, has since turned his attentions to business and is Founder and President of the H2 Modelling Agency.
"I've decided to play for the Jets because I know from playing EFAF Cup in 2008 for the Carinthian Black Lions (Austria) that they're a well respected organization and a team that wins football games" stated the well travelled Herlihy. "My goal is to win the Britbowl whilst I'm in the UK and to have a positive influence on the way American Football is viewed internationally. If I can spark some interest and persuade some of the junior players to pursue playing NCAA in the states while studying, then I've taken a step towards my overall goal".
In just 7 games in Austria Herlihy played both ways racking up an impressive 90 tackles on defence while also scoring five rushing touchdowns. Jets' quarterback and offensive coordinator Stuart Franklin was enthused by the quality of the signings "Dustin and Frank are class acts, they've impressed me with their attitude and ability. They're more than just players too, their coaching ability should see our defence improve no end". The duo look set to play together for the first time against the Sussex Thunder next Sunday as the Jets make the long trip to the south coast.