The excitement of American football came to Barstable School as Basildon-based Essex Spartans joined forces with NFL Europe to bring the sport to pupils.

And for Dean Gibson, head coach of the Spartans, it is a vital part of the club's plans of aiding their youth section.

"We are trying to become a part of the community and hopefully we can encourage some of these kids to take up the sport and maybe come and play for us in the future," he said.

"We know there are some other schools interested and we would like to set up a local junior league."

Representatives of NFL Europe -- where the UK is represented by the Scottish Claymores -- showed a group of youngsters some of the basic drills and tactics for the game.

Published Monday, April 7, 2003

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