Basildon-based Essex Spartans could be heading to California to round off their winter training.

The American Football club, which returned to the new town last season after a three-year absence, will begin training on November 3 on the AstroTurf at Gloucester Park.

And head coach Dean Gibson is hoping to arrange a trip to Panama College in San Diego to give players the chance to work in an intensive NFL-style environment before the new season starts in the spring.

Gibson is a former student of the college - which has supplied 23 players currently on the roster at NFL sides - and is keen to work with his old school to help his new side.

"We are arranging a team mini-camp over there, working with former NFL players," he said. "I've spoken to their head coach and the door is open for us.

"As soon as their season is over in December we can get together and work something out. It would be a great experience for our guys to go out their for 10 days, and hopefully we can bring back some of that."

Before that the club is looking to attract some new players, after struggling in division two of the Southern Conference last season.

nyone interested should contact general manager Tony Palmer on 01268 583995

Published Friday October 11, 2002

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