An American revolution in Shropshire

The sport has taken the country by storm over the last few years, with sell-out NFL games at Wembley Stadium becoming a part of the British sporting calendar.

And Revolution are looking for the next generation of wannabe quarterbacks and running backs.

Revolution, who play in the British American Football Association NFC 1 Division, were formed in 2006 by a group of like-minded individuals who found each other on an American Football forum.

After generating plenty of media interest, including a competition to choose the team name, the Revolution were born.

Their first game, in front of 200 local supporters, was a 30-6 win over the Lincolnshire Bombers.

That was followed up with a 28-14 victory over the Leicestershire Falcons and they completed their 3-0 inaugural season with another defeat of the Falcons.

They were given full membership into the league the following year.

One of the longest-serving members, quarterback Rob McLean, said: "The squad size has varied from the low 50s to the high 20s and anywhere in between.

"The first season was a combination of pure rookies and older veterans. The club has developed over the years, in a number of different ways.

"The most exciting being the youth programme run by former Revolution head coach Dave Reid."

The Revolution finished 2007 with a 2-8 record and from there built a strong platform to grow the team and organisation further.

They have reached the play-offs on three separate occasions. After losing in the semi-finals in 2010 and 2011 they were crowned champions in 2014 and had a shot at national glory.

The Revolution's bid to become national champions was ended by a 36-16 semi-final defeat at the hands of Merseyside Nighthawks, who went on to claim the title.

The current season has been a struggle for the Shropshire outfit as they still await their first win.

A number of veteran players have hung up their boots to focus on coaching while many rookies are just getting their first taste of competitive football.

Head coach Gideon Beddows said: "The results this season have been massively disappointing and the lads don't deserve what has been dished out this year.

"Once we get that first win under our belts it can only boost the confidence of the whole team.

"The vets know what it's like to win tough games and close games and I suppose the rookies just need to experience this too."

The Revolution attracts new players by holding regular rookie camps during the off-season. This is a chance for anyone aged 18 and over to try the sport out for themselves.

The camps, held in Telford and Shrewsbury, focus on the basics of the game as well as giving an overview of the different playing positions and tackling techniques.

These taster sessions have proven very successful for unearthing new talent who have seen the game on TV and want to give it a try.

Defensive line coach Brad Tipping said: "The NFL is probably the biggest reason people seek the chance to try it out themselves.

"It looks awesome on TV, under the lights and in big stadiums. I think people initially like to try the shoulder pads and helmets out."

The Revolution are always on the lookout for new players or anyone who would like to be involved with the clubt in some way.

So if you fancy yourself as the next Odell Beckham Jr or Tom Brady, or if coaching is more your forte, then get in contact with the Shropshire Revolution at shropshirerevolutionaf@gmail.com.