Gridiron comes to Culdrose

Trainees at Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose were treated to a full-on ‘Gridiron’ American Football experience in the form of a training session from the Cornish Sharks.

The invitation from the Culdrose Physical training department was part of an outreach programme that the Cornish Sharks jumped at the opportunity to come along too.

“Everyone has been pretty excited about the Sharks coach coming to Culdrose,” said Air Engineering Technician Megan Bunney, who has helped organise the ‘Gridiron’ visit.

“Not many have actually played the game so it’s pretty new for most people here today. 

“It’s proving to be a great chance to dress up in all the gear and try out a new sport.

“Bringing these grass roots sports to the Air Station shows everybody what they are capable of doing.”

The coaching sessions were also a good opportunity for the Cornish Sharks to search out new talent.

“We get a lot of people coming to our training sessions around the region,” said Brain Smallworth, coach with the Cornish Sharks team.

“Schools, colleges and places like Culdrose always have keen and enthusiastic people who are fit and willing to muck in and play.

“We’ve had some Royal Marines from Plymouth and a few people from HMS Raleigh in East Cornwall interested. I’d like to organise a military get together with them all.”

Coach Brian also hopes the training sessions will be a regular feature in the trainees busy fitness programme. Many of those taking part have certainly taken to the ‘Gridiron’ with enthusiasm!