History

HISTORY OF AMERICAN FOOTBALL IN GLOUCESTER
American Football has been played in the City of Gloucester since the sport's debut in the United Kingdom.

The first league team to play in Gloucester was the Gloucester Boars who participated in the 1985 United Kingdom American Football Association. The team progressed to the Budweiser League, playing as the Cotswold Bears during 1986 and 1987, winning the SW Conference on the way, and even played on the hallowed turf of Kingsholm (home of GLOUCESTER RUGBY) against Cardiff Tigers before a crowd of 3000.

The Bears folded at the end of the 1987 season and a new team emerged from the ashes and played their games at the current home of the Banshees at Plock Court, Gloucester. The team was named the Severn Vale Royals and took part in the British National Gridiron League from 1989 to 1993. The Royals closed their doors at the end of the 1993 season - but not before breaking a hatfull of records in an all too brief 5 years.

The West Country Phoenix appeared on the scene but due to a decline in the popularity of the sport, they didn't last a full season. Several youth teams emerged after this but faded into oblivion. 15 years on and, with a resurgance in the game, senior kitted American Football has returned to Gloucester City in the form of the Banshees. The Banshees played their first full season in the British American Football League during 2009 following a successful 'Associate season' in 2008.

And so, the story of American Football in Gloucester continues.......................................

Memorable Former Banshees

Eamonn Eammon McLoughlin (D) Eamonn played with a full heart during 2008 - 2009. He had a strange habit of barking during the snap. Eamonn left to return to Ireland, we hope to have him back someday. 

Derek "The General" Yenerall (QB) Played for the Banshees from 2008 - 2009. Derek lead the team to four wins and one tie in his thirteen games with the team. The Banshees first import in the team left in the offseason of 2010 to join the Bristol Aztecs.

Matt Milsom (QB) former Hereford Charger played for the Banshees in 2008 and scored the team's very first TD! Left in the offseason of 2009.

Lee "Chewy" McPeak (Center) played for many Gloucestershire based teams and was a day one Banshee. Lee became a foundation for the offence during the early days of the team. Still in touch with the team may return one day.