Not many teams from this part of the world have ever achieved national glory -- and fewer still have done it back-to-back.

But after seeing their youth section enjoy UK Championship success in 1992 and 1993 the Southend Sabres are seeking a new generation to keep the club going.

Giving no quarter - Southend Sabres quarterback James Dawson and his colleagues fight on despite a lack of numbers Picture: ROB BROWNE

They are already the oldest surviving team playing competitive American Football in the UK, forming 20 years ago and playing their first season in 1984.

And as the British game went through a boom in the 80s Sabres were one of a host of Essex-based clubs involved in a 60-strong league set-up.

Since that high point things have declined -- England no longer even has a franchise in NFL Europe, despite producing the inaugural World League winners in London Monarchs -- but Sabres battle on in Division Two South East of the UK league.

And chairman Hugh Cumberland is determined that the current depleted playing staff will not bring about the end of the town's club.

"I want to be chairing the AGM when I'm hobbling in on my zimmer frame," joked the former player.

"We brought over Jamie Foster, our first American coach, who was a former kicker who had a try out for the NFL and even if the seniors were just getting by the juniors were getting better and better."

Under the guidance of Jim Messenger -- regarded as one of the greatest coaches to work in Britain -- the juniors won the National championships in successive season, a feat matched by only one other side.

That squad formed the nucleus of the side for the 1990s, and many of them remain at the club today.

In the 2003 season the Sabres have been unable to field as many as 20 players on a matchday, putting ever more strain on those who take the field.

But Cumberland believes a brighter future could be on the way for the club, which is now back at its Southend Rugby Club home.

"Interest in the game is building up," he said. "NFL Europe is helping that and the NFL itself is putting up cash to promote the sport around the world.

"We are always looking for new players, but we need sponsorship to help us -- this is not a cheap sport to play."

Anyone interested in playing, coaching or sponsoring the Sabres should call team manager Denis Richards on 01702 619941.

Published Wednesday, June 11, 2003

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