Coventry Cassidy Jets have unveiled Jim Roberson as their new Head Coach. The former Rhode Island Rams standout defensive back has agreed to step into the void left by the departure of Gerry McManus. Roberson has been involved in American Football since he began playing as a 9 year old in his hometown of Tuckahoe, New York. Roberson spent most of last season with the Jets' arch-rivals the Bristol Aztecs and his signing will no doubt add extra spice to a pair of fixtures that already looked set to be amongst the most heated of the BAFL Premier schedule.
Receiving a 4 year football scholarship at Rhode Island, Roberson set records for interceptions and passes defended drawing the attention of the Hamilton Tigercats who drafted him to play professionally in the Canadian Football League. A back injury put paid to a promising career on the Gridiron but opened the door to an impressive career off it.
Taking over as Head Coach at his local high school, Roberson quickly turned around a 1-7 team, winning a County Championship in just his second year. Returning to his alma-matter under Bob Griffin, the Head Coach who'd recruited him as a player, Roberson began to learn the intricacies of offense which would serve him well as he embarked on a Coaching career in the UK.
Apart from working with the Portsmouth Warriors & London O's, Roberson has previously served as Head Coach with the Brighton B52s, Winchester Rifles and most recently the Southern Sundevils. "I love to coach, I love practice and I love helping players improve their game" said the infectious Coach. Former NFL Europe players Tony Mackenzie and Tom Tovo both made huge strides under Roberson as did NFL linebacker Sean Smith.
"Gerry did a tremendous job in the 5 years he was in charge here" continued the new man at the helm, "I was honoured when I was offered the job, there's a fantastic tradition at this club and it's a winning tradition. We're in an incredible position and have the opportunity to achieve a magnificent double". The Jets are looking to become the first team to take the British crown and win a European title in the same season since the Olympians achieved the feat 15 years ago.
Roberson is well known within the game for his stellar work ethic and prides himself on the work rate of his teams. "We need to step it up if we're to move up to the next level, I want us to behave like a major (US) collegiate programme training at least 3 times a week. If we lose any games this season it won't be due to a lack of effort, no one will outwork this ball club, no one!"