The Fire will be training young people aged 14-16 in the disciplines of the US sport, giving them a real chance to get hands on experience at this highly charged, physical game.

Headcoach Mark Bramwell explained, “We have a goal to not only establish our sport again in Fife but also to provide a structure for young players to flourish and meet their sporting potential in what is still regarded as a minority sport.”, he continued, “It is true for all sports, that the future is in the children, and if our sport is to survive and thrive, then this is where we need to concentrate our efforts.”

Coach Bramwell, who graduated from Adam Smith College in 2005 where he studied Sports Coaching & Development, is no stranger to building successful football programs. As co-founder of the Kirkcaldy Bulls Flag Football team, he saw the youth team twice lift the Scottish title in 2003 and 2004, and more recently as Headcoach of the Scotland Youth team as they demolished their English counterparts in November 2005.

“The Fife Fire junior football team is a great foundation stone for kids who want to play full contact American Football.”, he explained. “With more clubs springing up around the country, there are more opportunities to play and develop our game. As the club grows there will be for the first time in Fife an organisation able to provide opportunities for young players to participate in the sport of American Football at all age and experience levels.”

Telling us more, Mark explained he has been able to put together an excellent coaching staff that will work together and build this new program. Coach Don Edmonston, former team mate from the one time Fife 49ers, and ex Scottish Claymore, has come onboard as Offensive and Defensive line coach. A student of Sports Therapy at Telford College Edinburgh, his playing experience, knowledge and enthusiasm will be an excellent addition to the coaching staff that also includes Coach Alister Pullen.

Coach Pullen, who holds a bachelors degree in sport and exercise sciences from Napier University in Edinburgh, will be working with the Receivers and Quarterbacks. He brings a lot of experience with him, both as a football coach and as a personal trainer in fitness and conditioning.

The last piece of the coaching staff puzzle is the addition of assistant coach Mark Le Bouedec, a former player with Coach Bramwell, and young aspiring coach. Mark will be assisting in many roles and is relishing the chance to help with the development of a brand new team.

Coach Bramwell is delighted that the Fire has one of the most qualified groups of coaches in the country. “I have worked with all 3 gentlemen before, and I look forward to working with them collectively. We all have a very clear and common driven desire to see this team compete in 2006 and go further in 2007, and see American Football return and grow in Fife.