QUICK 10 WITH.....REDDITCH RAPTORS

 

Redditch is a town in Worcestershire, south of Birmingham. It was during the 19th century it became the international centre for the needle and fishing tackle industry. At one point 90% of the worlds needles were manufactured in Redditch.

The name of the town allegedly derives from the term 'Red-Ditch', in reference to the red clay of the nearby River Arrow. Aside from the needle and fishing tackle industry, Redditch was a prominent industry location for motorcycles and springs. Halfords and GKN both have their headquarters in the town. There are several historical sites such as the National Needle Museum, Moons Moat and the ruins of Bordesley Abbey, a 12th century Cistercian abbey.

Notable people born in Redditch were actor Charles Dance and former One Direction member Harry Styles. The Commish would also like it mentioned (through his love of motorsport) that British rally champion Russell Brookes was also born in Redditch.

Redditch is twinned with Auxerre in France and Mtwara in Tanzania.

In sporting terms both Redditch United F.C. and Redditch Borough F.C. play their football in non-league, Southern League and Midland League respectively, as well as a rugby league team, a rugby union team and the town was home to the Redditch Arrows who played American Football in the UKAFL, Budweiser League and BNGL from 1986 until 2009. They qualified for the playoffs on 11 occasions during that time.

Redditch Raptors were a re-brand from Thurrock Thunder in 2020 after that GM left. The current GM was in charge of the then Birmingham Reapers in the BFA and took the offer to step up into the BFC. He is also now part of the media team.

This is James, the GM of the Redditch Raptors, and these are his Quick 10 Questions.

1. How did you get involved in the league?

After seeing some murmurings about a new league with teams having their own Twitter accounts, I made it a mission to try and get in. I went on to lose many one-hundred 5 Yard Rush races and gave up hope, but then I believe someone dropped out and Murf threw me a lifeline to join the BFA as the Birmingham Reapers. Midway through the season I jumped into the BFC as the Redditch Raptors.

2. What team do you support and why?

I am a Colts fan. Watching the playoffs a few years ago, I enjoyed a Colts vs Broncos game and became a massive Andrew Luck fan.

3. How did you get into NFL?

It was really driven by fantasy football. I had a few friends who followed the game and I got invited into a league, not knowing too much about the game. Being as competitive as I am, I was not about to go in half-hearted and here we are today. Fully addicted to both fantasy football and NFL in general.

4. Who is your favourite player and why?

Andrew Luck was my favourite, which is now very sad to think of! I am a massive fan of Darius Leonard, love his energy and his impact on the team.

5. What is your experience with fantasy football?

I started about 6 years ago with a home redraft league. It has snowballed over the years to dynasty, keeper, Superflex, IDP and way too many total leagues! I really enjoy unique leagues (like this) where your player values are tested and particularly getting involved in some of the big competition and charity leagues running.

6. What are your views on a potential London franchise?

Whilst I agree that people won't abandon their teams to support a London franchise, every time I go to a game in London it feels more like an exhibition game than anything. Even if I didn't support the team, it would be great to have more of a home team feel to really take the atmosphere up a few notches.

7. What other hobbies/sports do you enjoy apart from NFL?

I play and follow cricket, mostly just internationals due to time. You may guess from the subtle colour scheme of my Redditch team that I am a big Aston Villa fan. Also follow other sports like golf and rugby.

8. What's your favourite film?

Pulp Fiction, no competition.

9. What's your favourite music?

Music tastes are buried in my uni days, so most dance and trance music. Spend my time listening to podcasts these days rather than radio or music.

10. Who is your Super Bowl tip this year?

Colts! - But seriously, I expect the favoured teams like the Chiefs, Bills, Packers and Bucs to be there or thereabouts. I love watching teams who make a few acquisitions and come on strong from being average the previous year, perhaps the Cardinals can push on this year with the acquisition of JJ Watt and then hit on some draft picks? I also think the Browns could be there too.

We would like to thank James from taking the time out as Redditch GM, cricketer, Villa fan, fantasy football player, media team member, chat-guru, Ravens co-GM........you get the message.

His first draft as a Raptors GM in 2021.

The Commish

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