Falcons ready for new league

Dubai The UAE version of the Gridiron Gang is here and they look menacing and raring to go with the country’s first ever American Football league set for a roaring start on October 27.

Following an AGM and end-of-season party at Qube Sports Bar in Dubai, the UAE Falcons — who were the UAE’s first and only team — have become an all-star team who will play only a few times a season.

exceeding expectations

In will come four teams to make up a league, called the Emirates American Football League (EAFL), with training camps starting in September.

The names of the competing teams have yet to be fully finalised, but there will be one representing Abu Dhabi, one from Al Ain and two from Dubai.

The organisers are understandably jubilant with the number of 150 confirmed to take part in the EAFL, a figure that has exceeded expectations. UAE Falcons defensive lineman Scott Sample is one of the seasoned players who has helped drive the formation of the league and is delighted that the efforts of many people are now coming to fruition.

“I just cannot wait to get playing again in October and this season we will have a league to be proud of with everyone going for success to win the trophy which is being called the Desert Bowl,” he said.

Fellow lineman Peter Davos is new to the UAE after moving from the US and is just as eager for the EAFL to get underway.

“It looks like I moved to Dubai from Boston just in time,” he said. “The sport here seems to be exploding in popularity.”

Anticipation has been growing over the launch of the EAFL with long-term plans to expand the number of teams and begin to attract spectators to watch the action live.

Those wanting to get involved should e-mail info@eafl.ae

Indian league

The Elite Football League of India (EFLI), like their UAE counterparts, will also begin play in late 2012. There will be eight teams, representing various cities