The Coventry Jets celebrated a return to action with their 2011 testing day. The event was open to incoming rookies as well as a select handful of young players from last season's squad and a handful of players from the Coventry University Jets. Youth team Head Coach Adam Biggs oversaw the event and was delighted with the effort of those that took part.
"We've got a great group of rookies again this year" stated Biggs, continuing "the application they've shown and their desire to work hard and improve has been nothing short of inspiring. The veterans will need to be on their toes when they return next month, these guys will push them hard." Rookie Tom Anderton topped the day's final event as he showed an exceptional level of fitness in the bleep test, smashing the standard expected of the Royal Marines.
Most impressive on the day was second year receiver Chris Shorey. A star of British Open Grappling, Shorey is looking forward to making his mark in American Football after seeing his rookie season cut painfully short by a severe break to his upper right arm. The speedy wideout took the plaudits in no fewer than five events; the 20 and 60 yard shuttle drills, the 40 yard dash, the vertical jump and an NFL calibre showing in the broad jump.
Alex Preece and Toby Etheridge won the 3 cone drill and push-up trials respectively. Both looked good in their rookie seasons for the youth team last year and will be looking to build on their impressive showings with their remaining two seasons of eligibility at junior level before joining the senior team. With a bumper crop of rookies and a packed pre-season schedule there are exciting times ahead for the Jets as they build towards their first fixture, away to the Paris Cougars on April the 23rd.
If you'd like to know more about the Coventry Jets and to find out how you can be part of their 2011 campaign, please visit their website www.covjets.com or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/CoventryJets.