The Coventry Cassidy Jets have tapped into the University of Warwick pipeline once more and sprung to young linemen from the ranks of the Wolves. German offensive lineman Simon Volkwein slots in at guard replacing Pete Downes, another former Warwick student, whilst Jon Dwyer will help out at defensive end.
Volkwein made his debut in Zurich during the season opening loss to the Renegades and showed plenty of promise as the Jets were comfortably able to move the ball. After a difficult first season with the Wolves, Volkwein has settled well with the Jets as their revamped line begins to gel. Undersized for a guard, what the diminutive German lacks in height he more than makes up for with speed and power.
Joining the National Champions with Volkwein is Dwyer, an imposing figure standing at 6'6". The athletic end made his debut in the win over Bristol, registering one tackle and a quarterback hurry in limited minutes. Dwyer and Volkwein join former Wolves Dave Cowen, Adam Biggs, Andrew Smith, James Luce and Adam O'Reilly with the Jets. Last year's title winning side also featured Downes and GB running back Steve Coles.
Head Coach Gerry McManus has been pleased with the contribution of the youngsters "Simon has just come straight off the back of a long season with the Wolves and, although he is a little undersized for a Guard, at present he's put in some very solid performances against some of the better opposition that Europe has to offer. He's held his own after been thrown into a far higher level of competition than he'd have seen in the University league. Time is on his side to develop and he is certainly one to watch for the future. Jon has impressed me with his athletic ability, he's an intelligent young man who is quickly picking up the art of playing defensive end. He's new to the sport but has a tremendous work ethic and is already contributing on the field".