Meet Alonso Muñoz, the rising star cornerback of the Zaragoza Hurricanes, as he takes us on a journey through his football career, filled with resilience, determination, and passion. From his humble beginnings in a small neighborhood on the outskirts of Zaragoza to becoming a cornerstone of his team's defense, Alonso shares his experiences, challenges, and aspirations in this exclusive interview. Get ready to delve into the world of Spanish football through the eyes of a promising athlete who embodies the spirit of perseverance and dedication. Getting to Know Alonso Muñoz As his former coach, I know Alonso well. I know the kind of player he is and I know about his game assets, but also about his resilience, his will and his passion. When he was a junior player I pulled him out of a senior game because I saw the rival Head Coach and Quarterback were looking for the wide receiver Alonso was covering. I changed him for a more experienced cornerback (after explaining to him that a “go route” on his side was coming), the expected play came and the pass was easily deflected without danger. While the substitution was happening, Alonso was very upset with me. His gaze, his facial expression... He just wanted that play. And maybe I was wrong for that, I don’t know. There are things you have to do when you coach and you live with those decisions. I tried to explain to him why I did that. I always tried to explain my decisions to my players in order to make them know. But he was definitively angry. The next day he came to me and apologized for his actions. He said “I don’t want you to not count on me because of my behavior”. And I, of course, didn’t. Because I understood him, more than he thought I did. And also because of his work ethic, his everyday behavior, and (why not) because it was a joy to see him playing. I like to think that these kinds of decisions also helped him to develop, but what I’m completely sure about is that we’ll see Alonso balling outside Spain very soon. Alonso Muñoz Answers the tough Questions Alonso, please, introduce yourself and tell us about your current team? Hi! I'm Alonso, I’m 21 years old and I play cornerback for the Spanish team Zaragoza Hurricanes, where I've been playing for 5 years. Zaragoza Hurricanes is my hometown team and we play in Serie A, the top league in Spain. Can you share a memorable moment from your football career that truly defines you as a player? The first thing that comes to my mind is a game against L’Hospitalet Pioners, at home. Before that game, we had lost the first three games and had a 0-3 record, almost ending our expectations for the playoffs. It was a close game, and I was playing well, but in one broken play Pioners scored a touchdown on me, closing the score to two points and giving them the momentum to win. Our next offensive possession was a 3 and out, so everything was against us and overall on me, but I’m a resilient player that doesn't give up, and when we were almost in red zone I intercepted a deep pass to the end zone, ending their moment and giving back the ball to the offense, who scored a touchdown on the very next possession to win the game. Early Life and Entry into Football Where did you grow up, and how has your hometown influenced your football Journey? I grew up in a small neighborhood from the outskirts of Zaragoza, knowing nothing about football until I was 10 years old. I started playing soccer and I wouldn't ever imagined that I would end up loving football. Obviously my environment has taken a big part in my career, because here in Spain, this sport is so small and expensive, and you have to give up a lot of things to play and you don't have many opportunities to grow up and develop as a player as in other countries from Europe. What sparked your interest in football, and who were your early influences in the sport? I've always loved American culture, things such as hip hop or the NBA have interested me a lot. It was my father who showed me the sport and the NFL. It was the Superbowl between the 49ers and Ravens, and I just loved the sport, the spectacle and everything about it. So it was love at first sight. My early influences were my dad and my older brother (Joel Muñoz, also a young and talented DB), who also plays with me in Zaragoza Hurricanes. Career Development and Major Achievements Can you walk us through your football journey, from your early days to where you are now? I started playing football at 15. I was super skinny and not even the most athletically gifted player, so at first everyone laughed at me but I didn't care because I loved football with all my heart. I played for three U-19 seasons in Zaragoza. I couldn't try to go to the national team because of Covid 19, but I was still able to play the game I love. Then at the preseason of my first year as a senior I tore my left knee meniscus and couldn't play the whole season. Last year was my comeback year and I was able to play until mid-season where I broke my arm. But as I said I am a resilient player and I hardly give up, so I came back again to keep doing what I love and pursue my dreams. What are some of the proudest achievements or standout moments in your football career? One of the proudest achievements in my career is that interception against L’Hospitalet Pioners that I mentioned before. Also, in my first year, the senior team staff honored me by giving me the chance to play in a friendly postseason game and be one of the team captains because of the hard work I put in the whole season, double training everyday, junior and senior teams.All the hard work paid off at that moment. I would tell you one more moment, which was when we reached the playoffs last year, but I couldn't enjoy that feeling because I got injured midseason, and I wasn't able to play in the playoffs. Personal Narrative Are there any personal stories or challenges you've faced that have significantly shaped your journey? The meniscus comeback is an experience that truly defines me, and changed the vision that I had of life, to not take things for granted and much less football. It was something I had never faced before. I had to give up a lot of things in life, and it was a very challenging experience for me. To take a year off and a step back, to take two steps forward, was challenging but I wouldn't change a thing because it made me the man and the player that I am today. Beyond football, what are some of your interests or passions? Are you involved in any philanthropic activities? Beyond football, as I said I love sports, music and hip hop culture but one thing that i really like is graphic design and visual art, things such as filmmaking and photography. At this moment I’m the graphic designer of my football team, the Zaragoza Hurricanes. Other things that I love in life is to be around my family and friends and travel around the world. Playing Style and Impact How would you describe your playing style and the skills that set you apart on the field? I like to define myself as a technical and aggressive player to the ball, I really like to make big plays on the ball and make turnovers. As a cornerback you have a lot of weight on your shoulders every play, so you have to be disciplined and don't risk everything for the big play, but I understand the game, and I know when to make the play on the ball and when to make the play my team needs. I would like to be known as a lockdown and a ballhawk player, those would be two adjectives that I would love to define my playstyle. In what ways do you believe you've made an impact on the sport of football or inspired others? I don't think I have a big role in my country at this moment, I don't really know if i have made an impact on someone or something, but I also have been coaching the female team for two years, and been able to spread the game of football is something that I love, but inspiring others in the future is something that would make me very proud. Current Role and Future Outlook What is your current role within your team or the league, and how do you see it evolving? I think I have a big role in my team, one of the cornerstones of the defense and to teach the new players that come to the team is something that I love, and to be able to give back what other players gave to me in the past. In the league I've heard that I am one of the promises for the future of my country. I am ambitious and I would like to be the best in what I do, so I have nothing but work in front of me to get to that point. Looking ahead, what are your aspirations and what goals do you hope to achieve in your future football endeavors? Some of my aspirations and dreams are to win the national championship with Zaragoza Hurricanes, be the best cornerback of my country, travel all over Europe and the world (if it is possible) playing football and the ultimate goal is to keep playing the game I love and live experiences with it. Reflection In your own words, how would you summarize your legacy and the mark you've left in football? What I can tell you is that my legacy is nothing that will be at the end of my career and life, because I plan to be in this game for my whole life, by playing, coaching or whatever I can contribute to the sport. To conclude, is there a particular quote or message you'd like to leave with our readers that encapsulates your journey and philosophy? Since I started playing football everything I’ve heard are doubts about me, my physique or even my capacity to avoid injuries, if there is something I can tell you, is to believe in yourself no matter what, because you are much stronger than the doubts or problems that come in life. So always believe in yourself and don't take things for granted. Keep working with passion and discipline and good things will come. Do things with passion and appreciate the good and the bad moments because that will separate yourself from the rest. Keep going!

The Guelfi Firenze are looking for a revenge in the IFL 2024 season. After the defeat in last year's Italian Bowl in Toledo, they aim to reclaim the title. Let’s hear  from the voices of new Head Coach Jeremy Males and the key players, Quarterback Andrea Fimiani for the offense and Linebacker Diego Rinaldi for the defense, how the Guelfi are preparing for the upcoming season and news both from their offense and defense. Also, we hope to find out how they’re motivating themselves to win the title . Let's start with the questions for Head Coach Jeremy Males, who was already the Defensive Coordinator of the team in 2021 and is now ready and motivated for his new season as Head Coach. GOALS FOR THE NEW SEASON It's your first year as the Head Coach of the Guelfi. How do you feel? How will the team change tactically and mentally? What are Guelfi's goals for this season? Since my first contact with the Guelfi in 2019, I have been impressed by the team's excellent organization from a managerial perspective. The coaches from previous seasons, especially Coach Briles and the other Italian coaches, have done a good job of being consistent in their schemes and practices methods. So, nothing about this will change in particular. Obviously the goal is to win the championship, last year we fell short against Parma. Even if we didn't win the championship, we wouldn't consider the season a failure. NEW OFFENSE, OLD AND NEW IMPACT PLAYERS Last season, offensively , we saw a lot of running plays, because of Gerbino's physical strength and ability to run the ball. This year, after his retirement, how will the team's offensive game plan change? Are  we going to  see  still a lot of running plays, or will the game plan be more balanced? What impact will the new American import Ryan De Luca have on the team and on offense? Yes, possibly more balanced, because of Ryan’s versatility, who can play both quarterback and wide receiver. He’s a great athlete, so hopefully we may have a more balanced offense than last year's,  just because we lack a player like Gerbino, who, like you said, was a great player with a great body. Last year Jared  could get 3 yards just by falling forward, so it was easy to run. We had some changes  on the offensive line, so obviously, not having him, our scheme will be just a little bit more balanced. But at the end of the day, we do want to run the football and be successful running it , because  we think that is the best chance for a long time success. ITALIAN BOWL LOST AND TEAM MOTIVATION Surely, the defeat in the Italian Bowl last year left a lot of regrets. How did the team react mentally? How much motivation is there after such a defeat for the new season? Are you ready to reclaim the title? Yes, it was absolutely a disappointing game. I was there watching the game, and we didn’t play very well, especially on offense . A couple times we could have done things on defense to keep the game manageable, and we jumped offsides and gave up first downs. There’s the little things like that, which you can fix, having taken so long to work on it. We’re in February now, the final was in July. So to put in all that work and then come up short like that Is  obviously disappointing for the team . We have several of the guys who were on the roster last year, who are already working hard for the team. I think that the organization and the management  has done a great job to improve the roster, we’re getting better. We’re really good on defense. CEFL CHAMPIONSHIP What about the CEFL championship? Do you think the team’s ready to compete in Europe? We’re definitely ready. I think we have the roster to do it. I mean it’s football, so anything can happen. For example, I’m a Cowboys fan and this year was supposed to be Dallas's year , but we lost in the playoffs against the Packers by 3 touchdowns .  That's one of the beautiful things about football  and that’s why it is such a big deal to people to get involved with it, because really it's anybody's game , anybody has a chance to be victorious. So we’re ready to play the CEFL,   but  you really never know what’s gonna happen. QUARTERBACK ANDREA FIMIANI Let's continue with Andrea Fimiani’s words ,who in recent years has been a key player in Guelfi's offense, demonstrating great athletic abilities as quarterback. NEW OFFENSE FOR THE GUELFI This year, the announcement of Gerbino's retirement, certainly changes the offensive dynamics of the team, and obviously you may have even more importance on offense compared to previous years. How do you think the offense will react to his absence? What type of offensive game do you want to play? How are you getting along with Offensive Coordinator Fabrizio Bocci and the new import Ryan De Luca ? Certainly, Jared's absence will weigh on the team and force us to change our strategies. However, he was just one player, and in football, you play with eleven people. So, his absence, as I mentioned before, will be significant, but we won't change our playbook too much. With Coach Bocci and Coach Jeremy, we have had a relationship for many years, we know each other well, and we've been working well so far. Everyone is looking forward to the first game of the season. Ryan hasn't been here for long, but he's a very intelligent guy, super enthusiastic, and helpful. He's the type of person everyone wants as a teammate. We're working on getting him into the playbook, and it won't take long, like I said he’s so smart . I'm sure he'll be a great weapon for us this year. NEW YEAR , SAME GOAL. The defeat in a final is always difficult to overcome. How did the team react mentally? How motivated are you this year compared to last year when you started as Italian champions? What do you think is the strength of the Guelfi? And why will you be difficult to beat? Certainly, the defeat has left its mark on us. There's a different atmosphere during training, but in a positive way. We're much more nervous and hungry. We all have the same goal. Some players have chosen to play for other teams this year, and this aspect has brought us even closer together because those who wanted to stay have remained with the team. We're a group of brothers hungry for revenge, and we're all focused on winning the championship. Again, we can't wait to get on the field and give it our all. LINEBACKER DIEGO RINALDI Let’s finish with the linebacker Diego Rinaldi’s words , who’s returning with the Guelfi this year, after a season spent with Seamen Milano in ELF. RETURN YEAR , NEW DEFENSE FOR THE GUELFI This year, after a season with the Seamen Milano, you're returning to play for the Guelfi. Compared to two years ago, which aspects of the team have remained the same and which have changed? What impact will your presence in the Guelfi defense have from a tactical standpoint? And what are your expectations for the new season? The core of the team has remained quite the same compared to the team that won the Italian Bowl with the Seamen in Bologna two years ago, so it's still a solid team. Last year, the Guelfi showed that they were a tough team to play against for everyone. This year, I'll be playing as a middle linebacker, a position that I really enjoy and that excites me. I hope that, thanks to the experience I gained in the ELF championship, I'll help the team by giving them security. I believe I can contribute a lot to this defense, both tactically, physically and athletically. For the new season, I have no other goal in mind than winning the championship. CHEMISTRY BETWEEN TWO TOP LINEBACKER  AND EUROPEAN DREAMS FOR THE GUELFI You and Alex Ferrari will be the starting Linebackers for the Guelfi defense this year. Is there chemistry on the field between you two? Do you believe you'll be able to play together without any issues? What about the CEFL Championship ? First of all, Alex and I are great friends. From a tactical point of view, we work very well together. It's not easy to find the right chemistry between two linebackers, but between us, we found it immediately. Since the first practices, we noticed how easy it was to understand each other and work together. We found a good balance in dividing assignments and managing the defense together. Neither of us prevails over the other; we are both on the same page and at the same level. I want to be honest; I want to win the CEFL with the Guelfi. It's a very complex championship, but despite that, I believe it will be a great experience for us, and we are ready to win it all. 2024 Firenze Guelfi Perspective The Firenze Guelfi, led by new Head Coach Jeremy Males, aim for redemption in the IFL 2024 season following last year's Italian Bowl loss. With key players like Quarterback Andrea Fimiani and Linebacker Diego Rinaldi, they're gearing up for a balanced offense and a solid defense. Motivated by their defeat, they're determined to reclaim the championship title and compete fiercely in the CEFL championship. ANDREA FANTIN

The Parma Panthers are gearing up for the IFL 2024 season! Hear from Head Coach Brian Michitti, Wide Receiver Simone Alinovi, and Defensive Lineman Gianmarco Grossi about their strategies, player dynamics, and expectations for the upcoming campaign. Get an insider's look into the team's tactical advantages, offensive game plans, quarterback connections, defensive strengths, and integration of new talents. With insights from key players and the head coach, discover how the Panthers are poised for success on both sides of the ball in their quest for another championship title. Head Coach Brian Michitti Let's begin with the questions for Head Coach Brian Michitti, who led the Panthers to the Italian bowl win last season and certainly changed  the team’s mentality . MEMORIES FROM 2023 What was the most important tactical advantage your team had last season, leading you to your eventual championship win? What was the most important mental aspect of last year’s squad? “Well, our most important tactical advantage from last year was definitely having an offense characterized by a strong running game and the presence of tough players. This feature of our offense allowed us to strengthen our mentality and team culture. I was also very satisfied about the way we played in defense : we worked a lot during practices on technical aspects like tackling and turnovers, and that helped us a lot during the season making turnovers and avoiding missing tackles. About the mentality, I can say that as a coach, it was very easy for me to work with the Panthers for several reasons: they are mentally tough, they have a winning culture, and they don't let negative events affect them. So, I felt like  we definitely have a tough team”. INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION What statement will your team make by competing in the CEFL this season? What makes this year’s team more prepared to compete for a European title? “The statement  that we’ll make this year is that we’re gonna play the best football that we can at the European level.We were competing last year but we fell short. We feel like we're one of the teams that can compete and represent Italy on an international level . We’re gonna take every practice and every game as a chance to improve. Last year we made our mistakes both from technical and tactical aspects, we really killed ourselves in the semifinal but we learned a lot from that trip as a team and as an organization. So I just feel like all of these things are really gonna help us in this year’s tournament. YOUTH IN ACTION How many of your youth players have experience playing on the Seniors level? How much impact will those young players have on the success of this year’s team? “We had quite a few juniors that practiced with us last year, all of them did a great job, because of their fantastic attitudes.Two of them really showed up at the end of our senior year, and they also did a great job showing up and helping the team on our junior winning season. So all of them made big improvements, they really have grown on attitude and mentality”. Wide Receiver Simone Alinovi Let's continue the analysis with Simone Alinovi’s words , one of the best wide receivers in Italy, who will return to the field from week 1, after last year's injury. COMEBACK SEASON Last year, you were absent for most of the season due to injury. Despite winning the championship, how much do you think your absence weighed on the offensive game? How do you think the offensive game of the team will change tactically this year? “Last season we certainly lacked a playmaker on offense, so our offensive game was based  around running plays and therefore on managing time and possession during games. With my return to the field as a receiver, I hope that deep passes and big plays will return to our games. The arrival of Jon Eagle as Offensive Coordinator is a huge luck for us because he is the one who created our game system and has been collaborating with our team for years”. QUARTERBACK CONNECTION Robbie Patterson will be your quarterback this season. What are your thoughts? Have you already built a good connection during training? Is he the right quarterback for your offense? “Robbie is already practicing  with us, he's a very calm guy who doesn't want to overshadow anyone but he  wants to be a part of our offense day by day . I was very impressed by his ball release, which is very quick and soft . Together during these practices , we are trying to figure out if my position on the field will be better as an inside receiver or an outside receiver, and we are working on our timing. Robbie has made a very good impression on both me and the rest of the teammates; he already knows the entire playbook and all of our plays. The game of Anthony Paoletti, the quarterback from last year, was very focused around running and power football. This year, with Patterson's arrival, we have returned to our old style of offensive play, so we will see more passes. Defensive Lineman Gianmarco Grossi Let’s finish our analysis with Gianmarco Grossi’s words. He’s one of the best defensive linemen in Italy, and this year is ready more than ever for the back to back season. ATHLETIC DEFENSE You are undoubtedly one of the leaders on your defense, what were the key aspects of your defense last year? How much did the work of the new head coach Brian Michitti influence the team ? Certainly, one of the key aspects of our defense last year was the athletic preparation, which undoubtedly allowed us to reach very high levels of endurance. It enabled us to stay strong on the field until the end of every game and to give 100% on every play. Then, there was a lot of on-field work during training sessions, with many reps. Coach Brian, added to our defense new plays, and motivated us in the right way, so he expected the best from us. We will always give him our best. 2024 DEFENSIVE LINE The defensive line has been one of the strongest units of our team for years, and you are certainly one of the leaders. Do you believe that also  this year you will be impactful in the trenches? How has the new Linebecker Jaylin Parnell integrated into the defense? And are there any young players you want to talk about? We've recently started practicing with full pads, and I've already seen a competitiveness that isn't often seen in early practices. This season, we're highly motivated, we want to do even better , we want to achieve our goals at all costs, so we're ready to win again. Jaylin is a beast, you'll see him soon, how much he’s gonna help our defense. I'd like to talk about a teammate in my unit, Defensive Line Michele  Minuti, who played really well last year. 2024 Parma Panthers Perspective As the IFL 2024 season unfolds, the Parma Panthers' preparation and strategic outlook, as made clear by Head Coach Brian Michitti, Wide Receiver Simone Alinovi, and Defensive Lineman Gianmarco Grossi, offer a compelling narrative of determination and adaptability. With Michitti's emphasis on tactical prowess and a winning mentality, Alinovi's return heralds a shift in offensive dynamics, while Grossi's insights underscore the team's defensive resilience. Their collective vision and commitment to excellence set a promising tone for the Panthers as they navigate the challenges ahead, poised to leave an indelible mark on both the Italian and International Football Landscape.

The Badalona Dracs (2-0) will take on the Mallorca Voltors (2-0) at home in Montigalá this saturday at 16:00 (Central European Time). This game will decide the top place in the LNFA Serie A´s eastern conference as both of these teams are still unbeaten entering Week 4, which is still pretty early in the season but the stakes are really high. This game has a lot of playoff implications and when it's all said and done in the regular season, the top seed of the east is probably gonna be the winner of this game. Team Analysis The home team is highly favored. The Dracs this season want to win it all and establish once again the dynasty they had for more than five years. They have  made that pretty clear with the signings of Americans Runningback Ra'von Bonner and Athlete Alpha Jalloh. One is a first timer in Europe and an explosive beast at running the ball in Ra'von Bonner, who is coming out of Temple and Illinois University. The other one is the European American football veteran Alpha Jalloh, known in the whole continent for being able to dominate at almost every position on the field, with experience in the ELF (Germany), Finland, Sweden, Spain, Romania and France. This is probably the best backfield in Europe this year and they are already putting up astronomical numbers (Badalona´s offense has put up 99 points so far), but the Dracs are not satisfied with that as the catalonian team has signed mexican Quarterback Marco Durán. The 27 year old will be the QB1 for the remainder of the season after playing with the Reds of Mexico City of the LFA (Mexican professional football league) and is ready to put on a show against the Voltors for his Serie A debut. The Mallorca Voltors is a well established team in the Spanish first division and has been that way for some years now. They enter this duel as the underdogs, but they are gonna put up a fight for sure. The balear team is led by Quarterback Zahir Malik Wilder, the American import started the season as a wide receiver but had to step up as a passer when national Quarterback Tolo Flaquer was injured in Week 1 against Barcelona Pagesos. One of the strongest assets of the team is their defense, which has only allowed 7 points on the season so far with names that stand out such as their Canadian import Defensive back Michael Jurus, Defensive back Marc Carbonell or Defensive Lineman Nicolás Barrieros. Also, on offense, players like Scottish Wide Receiver Calum Davidson or Wide Receiver Santiago González will be key in the game for Mallorca with an arm as strong as Malik´s, who is also a huge dual threat with his legs when it's needed. Key factors in the game The Badalona Dracs have a clear thing to do to win this game, and it is to let their Running backs Bonner and Jalloh eat. That also opens up the passing game for the new Quarterback of the team Marco Durán to connect with one of the league's top national receiving corps, composed by names such as Iván Caballero, Eric Ladero and David Martínez. If they continue to do what they have done in the season so far they will be good to go in this important battle at home for the top spot of the conference. Mallorca Voltors´ path to victory passes through one key factor, stopping the Dracs' run game. If the Voltors´ front seven is able to slow down the power house attack of Badalona´s backfield, they will get a chance for Zahir Malik to take responsibilities as the dual threat he is and carry the offense for the upset. Prediction This will probably be one of the most intense matchups in terms of play this season, but with that high scoring offense that has put up 99 points in just two games played, I see the Badalona Dracs as the winners of this game.

The Barcelona Pagesos and the Zaragoza Hurricanes are two very talented teams with their first win of the season in view. The Barcelona Pagesos are young, but have not shown the ability to score effectively this season. Could this be the week the young team puts it all together? The Zaragoza Hurricanes know what it takes to win, but have not done so in the 2024 season. Can this game be the start of a winning streak for a team expected to be a playoff contender? These questions and more will be answered this Sunday February 11, at 12:00 at La Teixonera stadium! The Youth of Barcelona Pagesos Barcelona Pagesos is a humble team. With barely ten years of history, and a fast and brilliant career in the Catalan League and the Spanish Serie B, Pagesos face their very first year in the highest category of Spanish football. The key to this young team is working on the base. In a metropolitan area in which Pagesos must compete in recruiting with teams such as Badalona Dracs (the Spanish team with the most national titles) and the six-time Spanish champions L'Hospitalet Pioners (in addition to other historic football teams such as Barcelona Uroloki or Barcelona Bufals), Pagesos has found his formula teaching football from the base, with cadet and junior teams and also different flag categories. After becoming champions of Serie B last season and being promoted to Serie A, Pagesos close the first round of the league this Sunday February 11, at 12:00 at La Teixonera stadium) against Zaragoza Hurricanes looking for their first victory. To do so, they have a young national squad, in which names such as wide receiver Luca Rusca, Linebacker Pol Soto or Defensive lineman ​​Rafa Fernández stand out. The import Defensive backs Joshua Green, who has left very good impressions in his first games, and the Mexican Genaro Alfonsín (former CFL player) are the key on the secondary. On the offense, the Mexican Quarterback Brian Macias, from the Linces of the University of the Valley of Mexico (UVM) will have to improve a team that has scored only seven points so far in the season. The Experience of Zaragoza Hurricanes On the opposite side, Zaragoza Hurricanes know about playing with the best. In their sixth season in Serie A, with two appearances in the play-offs (the last one, last season, losing against OL OLED Black Demons), they have a squad well established in the category, in which players such as the wide receivers Luis Sánchez and Aaron David or the Defensive Backs Alonso Muñoz and Jesús Murillo stand out. On their offensive line they have the experience of one of the most popular signings of Madrid Bravos for the next ELF season: Offensive Tackle Gabriel Rodríguez, who played for Barcelona Dragons and Helvetic Guards. Their coach, the Mexican Renan Santana, has lots of experience despite his youth, and has established a winning culture, although this season Hurricanes have not yet won. That is why the match against Barcelona Pagesos is so important. After the defeats against L`Hospitalet Pioners on the first week and against Badalona Dracs on the second, Zaragoza Hurricanes cannot fail again. The arrival of the Mexican player Edgar Ulloa, a decorated quarterback from Borregos CEM, should give wings to a team that hopes to take off.

David Yu is one of the top national players at the quarterback position in the entire Spanish American football landscape. The young prospect is the QB1 for the Alcobendas Cavaliers of the LNFA Serie A and has been part of the team since his junior years with the Royal Oaks Knights (Cavaliers U-16 and U-19 team). Already in his career he has accomplished achievements such as leading the Cavaliers to be the 2022 LNFA Serie B champion, marking the first time in the organization's history to move to the first division. Also, he is part of the National Team and was part of the Barcelona Dragons roster in the first ever season of the European League of Football. Yu has given an interview talking about his beginnings in football, struggles throughout the years, accomplishments in the sport, personal life and more: Introducing David Yu Could you please introduce yourself and tell us about your current team? My name is David Yu and I’m the QB of the Alcobendas Cavaliers. Can you share a memorable moment from your football career that truly defines you as a player? I’ve got several memories regarding football, some of them on the field and some of them off it. But one of the memories that I would say defines me as a player is the fact that I’ve never started as a starting QB. I’ve always had to work my tail off to get where I’m at. I know that this doesn’t really count as just one memory or moment but several moments. All the lonely training sessions after hours practicing and studying that I had to do to get where I’m at. Usually one would think of a highlight play or game, but none of them would have happened if I didn’t train and practice what I have. Where did you grow up, and how has your hometown influenced your football journey? As an American that grew up in Madrid, getting the opportunity to play football was a privilege and playing for the Royal Oaks Knights gave me the opportunity to not only play, but also to learn a lot about the sport and its values. So I would say that it had a huge impact and I feel very lucky that I grew up where I did. What sparked your interest in football, and who were your early influences in the sport? My interest in football began from trying to reconnect with the US. So in my efforts of trying to do so, I started watching football and ultimately playing. But what really got me into it was watching Tom Brady play. That and that one Lamar Jackson clip that went viral on Vine back when he was still in high school. David Yu’s Football Journey Can you walk us through your football journey, from your early days to where you are now? My football journey has always taken the same path. I started playing when I was 17. I’m 24 now. I started as a backup and earned my spot as a starter. Moved up to the Sr team. Back up again and earned my spot as a starter. Made the Barcelona Dragons team. Came back to my local team, won the national championship which would move us up to the first division. Made the Spanish national team and currently looking to help the team to perform as best as possible. What are some of the proudest achievements or standout moments in your football career? I would say that my proudest moment in my football career was earning the starting position and winning the national championships that same season. Do you have any noteworthy statistics or records that you believe reflect your contributions to the sport? I’ve never been a guy that tends to focus on individual statistics cause at the end of the day it’s about winning or losing. You can have a hell of a game but if you end up losing, it doesn’t really matter, does it? Are there any personal stories or challenges you've faced that have significantly shaped your journey? The biggest challenge I had to face was coming back from a back injury that I had a couple years back when I joined the Sr team. I had a spine hernia that wouldn’t allow me to walk without being in severe pain. But my love for the game pushed me to work hard in my recovery and push through the pain to come back and continue playing the game that I love. David Yu: The Player & Person How would you describe your playing style and the skills that set you apart on the field? I would say that my playing style is very similar to Josh Allens. I can throw the ball but I can also run. I’m not super flashy but I get the job done. I wish I could be as athletic as Lamar, but I’m a big guy and I can break a couple tackles and still make the play. In what ways do you believe you've made an impact on the sport of football or inspired others? I would like to say that my biggest impact is made off the field, trying to be a good teammate, player and even coach. I love to share my knowledge and help others improve their game. Beyond football, what are some of your interests or passions? Well, I’m currently doing a masters degree in Sports Marketing so I think that pretty much talks about how much I love sports in general. But besides that, music, movies and playing video games with the boys are some of my favorite things to do. Past & Present Outlook What is your current role within your team or the league, and how do you see it evolving? As hard as it is, I’m getting older and every year younger guys join the team. I’m becoming a vet and my main role is to guide these younger guys in their journey of adapting to the league and becoming not only a leader but also a role model. Looking ahead, what are your aspirations and what goals do you hope to achieve in your future football endeavors? My mind is set right now on hopefully joining the bravos team and becoming a well known player in the ELF. Final Words from David Yu In your own words, how would you summarize your legacy and the mark you've left in football? Knowledge. In the end the only thing I want is the sport to grow both in Spain and in Europe. And if I can help make that happen by sharing my knowledge, so be it. To conclude, is there a particular quote or message you'd like to leave with our readers that encapsulates your journey and philosophy? Both Football and Life will give you as much as you want as long as you’re willing to put in the work. David Pinto Maeso.

In a surprising move, the Ingolstadt Dukes announced last Friday their withdrawal from the ERIMA German Football League for the 2024 season. This decision was communicated to the American Football Association of Germany (AFVD), which received it with regret. However, no written termination of the license agreement or return of the game license has been carried out so far. The Dukes' intention to withdraw their 1st men's team from the ERIMA GFL raises questions about the league's future. The AFVD and the league association GFL e. V. are in contact to discuss the implications of these considerations and to find alternative solutions. A replacement procedure is currently not planned, which means that the ERIMA GFL South will play with 7 teams. The withdrawal of the Dukes' first team also marks the end of their cooperation with Head Coach Eugen Haaf. The decision was made by mutual agreement, and the club thanks Haaf for his many years of dedicated work. However, it remains unclear in which league the Dukes will compete with their first team in the future. The financial situation of the club is a decisive factor in this development. The Dukes justify their withdrawal from the GFL 1 by aiming to avoid another over-indebtedness. The club's financial situation has turned out worse than expected, leading to radical cost-cutting measures. The future of the team is uncertain both in terms of sports and finance. Players who had already committed will leave the club, and the Dukes will need to rebuild their financial base to attract long-term partners and ensure the club's financial stability. There are also rumors about the club's financial situation, which are denied by the officials. The club is not insolvent but aims to prevent another debt crisis. The measures taken aim to protect the club and its various teams. The Dukes will take their time to make an informed decision about their future league affiliation and emphasize the need to stabilize their financial situation before taking further steps.

Week 1 of the FFFA ELITE league brought fans three thrilling games, showcasing the competitive spirit and talent of teams in the D1 Elite French league. In the Northern Conference, the La Courneuve Flash clashed with the Asnières Molosses, while the Southern Conference witnessed battles between Toulouse Ours and Aix-en-Provence Argonautes, and Cannes Iron Mask against Nice Dauphins. The Parisian Derby The standout matchup of the week was undoubtedly the Parisian "derby" between the La Courneuve Flash and the Asnières Molosses. The Flash, former French champions in 2022, found themselves in a fierce battle against the Molosses, ultimately securing a hard-fought victory with a score of 21-13. The defining moment came in the form of a remarkable Hail Mary play on the last snap, propelling the Flash to a 1-0 start in the season while the Molosses fell to 0-1. French Riviera Showdown Down in the South, another derby unfolded between Cannes Iron Mask and Nice Dauphins, two neighboring teams with a history of intense clashes. Iron Mask, the newly promoted team from D2, made a statement with an impressive 19-6 victory over Toulouse Ours. This win positions Iron Mask at 1-0, signaling their potential to disrupt the current balance of power in the Southern Conference. Battle in the South In Aix-en-Provence, the Argonautes secured a crucial 21-16 victory against the Nice Dauphins, marking a strong comeback for the team after a challenging season last year. With a renewed sense of determination, the Argonautes (1-0) overcame a formidable opponent in the Dauphins (0-1), setting the stage for an exciting playoff race in the Southern Conference. League Setbacks Unfolded Unfortunately, Week 1 was not without its share of setbacks. The Pionners de Tours announced an official forfeit for the season due to a shortage of players and structural challenges. As a result, the Northern Conference will now comprise five teams instead of six: Rouen Léopards, La Courneuve Flash, Thonons-les-Bains Black Panthers, Asnières Molosses, and Saint-Ouen L'Aumône Cougars. Additionally, the scheduled match between the Cougars and the Black Panthers in the Northern Conference was canceled for several reasons. The game will be rescheduled as soon as possible, pending a decision from the federation. As Week 1 concludes, the FFFA ELITE league has already provided fans with excitement, unexpected outcomes, and a glimpse into the intense competition that lies ahead. Stay tuned as teams continue to vie for supremacy in the quest for the championship.

Last Sunday, the French Elite division saw a classic Côte d'Azur clash as the Iron Mask Cannes faced off against the Nice Dauphins in a hard-fought regular season battle. While Free Lucas shirts were shown during the warm-ups by the Cannes team due to an 18-month suspension of Lucas Fontenil for using Ventoline in medical treatment, the real heat was on the field, where both teams displayed grit and determination. Cannes Soars Early, Dauphins Claw Back The Iron Masks started strong, their first drive showcasing impressive plays culminating in a 1-yard touchdown pass. However, a bad snap on the extra-point attempt prevented a perfect start. Nice responded with a punt, having trouble keeping the offense working and the Iron Mask mirrored their effort and also punted the football. The Dauphins found their rhythm in the second quarter, stringing together good passing plays before a crucial turnover on downs halted their progress. Cannes capitalized, with a 15-yard run followed by a back-to-back 15-yard pass. Eventually, the Dauphins defense made a stand and held them to a 4th down, that the Iron Mask used to throw a pass to the middle hash of the field and ran 2 yards after the catch conquering a touchdown by their number 4, Menden Marian. Despite a failed two-point conversion, Cannes held a 12-0 lead. Defensive Struggle and Turning Points The second half became a defensive chess match, with both teams struggling to move the ball consistently. Cannes had a glimmer of hope with an interception, but Nice responded with a sack, forcing a fumble deep in their own territory. Still, they didn´t manage to put some points on the board in that drive, making another turnover on downs. However, the Dauphins wouldn't be deterred, and a 60-yard touchdown pass on a Go route brought them within striking distance. The tension mounted in the final quarter as Nice converted a 4th down pass for a touchdown, but the extra point attempt sailed wide, keeping Cannes well ahead. The Iron Masks then showcased their offensive powerhouse again, with a short pass to the running back, Bakhanti Yanis, turning into a 40-yard reception and an 8-yard touchdown run. The extra point sealed the deal, securing a well-deserved 19-6 victory for Cannes. Key Takeaways and Looking Ahead This game was a testament to the growing depth and competitiveness of the French Elite division. The Iron Masks displayed offensive explosiveness and a resilient defense, while the Dauphins showed their fighting spirit and never gave up. Although disappointed, Nice can build on their strong second-half performance as they look to bounce back in their next game. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on these Riviera rivals to see if they can maintain their winning ways and challenge for the championship title.

The Aix-en-Provence Argonautes got the better of the Ours Toulouse, cruising to a convincing 21-13 victory on Saturday. Dominant First Half The Toulouse started strong, controlling possession and efficiently moving down the field. The Argonautes' defense struggled to contain the Ours' passing attack. Late in the first quarter, quarterback Nicola Jazz connected with wide receiver number 16, Hilderald Pierre, putting Toulouse ahead 7-0. More Points and Turnovers in the Second The Argonautes kept applying pressure in the second quarter, forcing an Ours punt and responding with a 25-yard pass to the outside but punting at the end of that drive. Though unable to convert the drive into points, the Argonautes' defense shone, intercepting the Ours' quarterback with just one minute remaining in the half. The away team capitalised, with number 27, Giglio Antoni, rushing for a 20-yard touchdown and making the game tied 7-7. Decisive Third Quarter The Ours attempted to fight back in the second half, but the Argonauts' defense remained relentless. Early in the third quarter, they intercepted the Ours' quarterback again with Masterpnak Paul and capitalized with an inside run touchdown, widening the gap to 7-14. By the end of the third quarter, the Argonautes got another offensive possession, making another inside run, making it a hat-trick of inside rushing touchdowns and creating a larger margin, putting the score on 7-21. Late Response from the Ours The Ours finally got on the board in the fourth quarter with a 40-yard touchdown pass. However, the two-point conversion attempt failed, leaving the score at 13-21. Both teams tried to score again, but the defenses held strong, securing the final score of 13-21 for the Aix-en-Provence Argonautes.

On Saturday, February 3rd, at the Géo André stadium in La Courneuve, the "derby" of the Parisian region took place, featuring the reigning CEFL European champion, the La Courneuve Flash, against the Asnières Molosses, a team with strong potential in reconstruction. After an electrifying evening, with an insane atmosphere in the stands and a closely contested match until the last second, the Flash emerged victorious with a score of 21-14 on the final play of the game, thanks to a miraculous Hail Mary. On Saturday night in La Courneuve, an electric atmosphere prevailed at Géo André. In this intense "derby," which marks the opening of the ELITE 2024 season, tension and the level of both teams were palpable. In the stands, the U20 players of each team engaged in chants, responses, banter, and trash talk. The tremendous atmosphere added to the intensity and tension surrounding the match. The Molosses, undergoing restructuring for several seasons, came in determined, strengthened by the arrival of American head coach Brayden McCombs and American import Brody Hahn, a quarterback who played in the elite in 2022 with the Cougars de Saint-Ouen l'Aumône. A young, highly physical team that narrowly missed the playoffs last season and aims to break into the top 3 this season. Facing them, the favored Flash, the most decorated club in France (12 national championships), CEFL European champion in 2023, and French champion in 2022, aims to perform well in this new season as they strive to reclaim the Diamond Helmet after last season's elimination in the semi-finals. The Molosses quickly surprised the Flash in the first half, where the Molosses' defense contained the Flash’s offense with 4 turnovers, stifling the passing game of the Flash and their French Quarterback Léo Crémades. This was notably achieved by Mathis Delobel, a talented Defensive back trained by the Molosses, who recorded 4 tackles and an interception. The Molosses and their new dual threat American Quarterback destabilized the Flash defense with a good mix of passes and Hahn's runs. The quarterback had an outstanding rushing performance with 101 yards in 11 carries. They took an early lead of 7-0 with a run by Brody, then extended it to 14-0 with a catch by Sylvain Selga. Just before halftime, the European champion closed the gap to 14-7, but the Flash was struggling, and the Molosses controlled the game. In the second half, the Flash's defensive coordinator Arnaud Mboucha seemed to have made adjustments; Hahn's runs were better contained, and the Flash managed to execute their running game. Thanks to the tremendous effort of the La Courneuve Offensive Line, Running back François Pion gained 184 yards on 27 attempts, averaging 6.8 yards per carry with 1 Touchdown. The Flash tied the score at 14-14 with a Touchdown run by Judson Saint-Louis, a young running back trained in La Courneuve who had an excellent game (8 runs, 48 yards, 1 Touchdown). The two teams remained deadlocked until the last second. For the final play, a Hail Mary was called by Nicolas Simoneau, the Flash's head coach. The Flash's Offensive Line, definitively dominant in the match, protected Quarterback Léo Crémades well, allowing him to throw a brilliant pass of over 40 yards to his receiver Yannis Soummar, who caught a Touchdown in the very last second to bring victory to the Flash, ultimately winning 21-14 at home. We witnessed a beautiful football match that heralds a superb ELITE 2024 season. The Molosses are in contention, and the Flash remains the team to beat in this northern conference. The Flash will travel to Thonon-les-Bains to face the Black Panthers in their next match on February 17, while the Molosses will confront the Rouen Leopards on March 2.

The European League of Football (ELF) is not just about the thrill of the game; it's also a showcase of unique branding and design. Each team's logo is a critical part of its identity, embodying the team's spirit, history, and ethos. Here's a discerning look at the visual branding of the ELF teams, from the earnest efforts to the pinnacle of design excellence. 17. Fehérvár Enthroners The Fehérvár Enthroners' logo is a stylized golden 'E' capped with a crown, with a blue outline. Simple and straightforward, it conveys a sense of regality but lacks the visual impact seen in other logos. 16. Munich Ravens The Munich Ravens' logo features a minimalist raven using a misshapen V for its beak, creating a stark contrast on a dark background. The design aims for simplicity and mystery, but it could benefit from a touch more detail. 15. Vienna Vikings The Vienna Vikings' unveiled a new logo that is modern, minimialistic, and truly original. Unfortunately, the heavy emphasis on the letter V turned the overall look into more of a bull character instead of an Viking reference. At least the color scheme is still pretty good. Can't go wrong with Purple and Gold. 14. Prague Lions At 14th, the Prague Lions' logo boasts a multicolored lion against an orange background. The design is very busy with a complicated color scheme. A simpler approach to the colors would have allowed the design to capture the lion's majestic essence. 13. Helvetic Guards The logo of the Helvetic Guards is straight to the point - A guard with the Switzerland Flag. The design is great for a national team, but doesn’t evoke much emotion for the casual football fan. 12. Berlin Thunder Berlin Thunder's logo is a streamlined lightning bolt that intersects with the Thunder text. It does have a sort of AC/DC vibe that resonates with a certain generation of football fans. The red and gray color scheme is striking, but the design lacks the dynamic energy typically associated with thunder. 11. Barcelona Dragons The Barcelona Dragons' logo features a fierce dragon head in green and gold. The design is bold and encapsulates the mythical creature's strength, although it could be more intricate to fully embody the dragon's grandeur. 10. Madrid Bravos The Madrid Bravos' logo showcases a stylized black bull, symbolic of Spain’s cultural heritage. The design is powerful and assertive, yet it maintains a minimalist approach that makes it seem more like a cartoon character than a professional team logo. 9. Stuttgart Surge In the 9th spot, the Stuttgart Surge's logo is a vibrant yellow lightning bolt set against a dark background, conveying energy and forward momentum. The design is modern and indicative of a high-powered team. 8. Paris Musketeers The Paris Musketeers' logo, with its elegant fleur-de-lis, speaks to the rich history of Paris. The navy blue and white color scheme adds depth and sophistication to the logo, ranking it in the ninth position. 7. Tirol Raiders The Tirol Raiders’ logo is a bold black bird in mid-flight, next to a sword representing the weapon of choice for “raiders”. The sleek design is both contemporary and commanding, earning it the eighth spot. 6. Hamburg Sea Devils The Hamburg Sea Devils' logo leans heavily into the Devil aspect, with the color schemed implying that the sea is involved. This logo says, "We're here to play football and rule the seas, and we're all out of water." 5. Cologne Centurions At number five, the Cologne Centurions' logo is a silver Roman helmet with a red striking plume. The design is robust and evokes the spirit of ancient warriors, setting a formidable tone. 4. Milano Seamen The Milano Seamen’s logo is a stylized anchor intertwined with the block letter S, reflecting the connection between the team and the sea.. The silver and blue palette is sleek and gives the logo a distinguished appearance. The Football is over the top, but gets the point across to non-football fans. 3. Wroclaw Panthers The Wroclaw Panthers' logo, a stylized black panther head, exudes power and agility. Set in front of the team name text, this logo looks NFL ready. The minimalist design is both modern and timeless, capturing the predatory essence of the panther. 2. Rhein Fire The Rhein Fire’s logo stands out with a fiery red 'F' that appears to be ablaze by the letter R. The flame design is dynamic and encapsulates the team’s energetic and passionate approach to the game. 1. Frankfurt Galaxy At the top of the ranking, the Frankfurt Galaxy's logo is a galactic swirl, combining elements of football with the infinity of space. The color palette is deep and resonant, with the gold accents suggesting a futuristic and universal appeal. Each logo in the ELF brings its own unique story and visual appeal to the league. From traditional symbols to contemporary designs, these logos are a key part of each team's identity and fan experience.

2024 is already here and with that another season of the LNFA Serie A (Liga Nacional de Fútbol Americano, or National Football League), the earliest league in Europe to begin competition. The league is now entering week 4 of the season, using the same system established last year, consisting of 10 teams divided into two geographical conferences. It seems that FEFA (spanish federation of american football) wants to establish the 10 teams and 10 regular season weeks for the foreseeable future. Something pretty important for a federation known for the constant changes in their competitions every year. 30 YEARS OF LEAGUE HISTORY The Spanish league itself turns 30 this year. Liga AEFA, Liga Beefeater, Liga LNFA, LNFA Elite, Serie A… a lot of names and different number of teams, more or less economic problems and even a pandemic in between. Spain is certainly not the oldest country with a league in Europe, but it is steadily growing and evolving every year. After 30 years there have been eight different champions. Badalona Dracs is the winningest team in spanish history with 11 titles, then L’Hospitalet Pioners with 6, Valencia Firebats with 4, Osos de Rivas and the extinct Madrid Panteras with 2 championships. There are 3 different single title teams, the Vilafranca Eagles, Fenix Vallés, and the reigning champion Las Rozas Black Demons. TWO CONFERENCES FOR 2024 Like last year, the league is divided in two conferences, the east and the west. The east conference is formed by: Badalona Dracs, L’Hospitalet Pioners, Mallorca Voltors, Zaragoza Hurricanes, and the Barcelona Pagesos, who are newly promoted after conquering the Serie B last season,. The west conference is formed by: the reigning champion and recently crowned Spanish Cup winner LG Las Rozas Black Demons, Osos de Rivas, Alcobendas Cavaliers, Gijón Mariners and Camioneros de Coslada. Everything is well under way and as of week 4 the standings are the following: On top of the east conference are the Mallorca Voltors and Badalona Dracs, both with a 2-0 record. Currently in 3rd place is L´Hospitalet Pioners at 2-1 and tied at the bottom are Zaragoza Hurricanes (0-2) and Barcelona Pagesos (0-3). In the west, the top teams are Las Rozas Black Demons and Osos de Rivas at 2-0. 3rd place belongs to the Camioneros de Coslada standing at .500 with a 1-1 record, followed by the Gijón Mariners at 1-2, and at the tail of the conference is the Alcobendas Cavaliers at 0-3. STRUCTURE OF THIS SEASON IN SPAIN The regular season will end in April, while the playoffs and the Spanish Bowl (the Spanish league final and most important game of the year) will  take place in May. This format is relatively new, as it was created so as not to interfere with the training camps of the European League of Football (ELF). Scheduling is something that caused a lot of controversy a couple of years ago, when the season started and ended later in the year, resulting in a lot of the country’s best players having to leave their teams in the playoffs due to the ELF season. Now everything is set up for another year of American football in Spain. It seems that this season is going to be an interesting one, not only in the national competitions but at European level too with the arrival of the Madrid Bravos, the new franchise of the ELF. This marks the first time ever that Spain is going to have more than one representative at that level, with the Barcelona Dragons and the already mentioned Bravos being ELF representatives.

The 2023 Italian Football League (IFL) season left us with the Parma Panthers' historic victory in the Italian Bowl played in Toledo,Ohio. It was undoubtedly an exciting and surprise-filled year, but the new season is now approaching, and expectations are high. With 9 teams competing for the championship, I've categorized them into three groups based on my point of view: Contenders, Solid Teams, and Underdogs. 2024 IFL CONTENDERS Panthers Parma , Guelfi Firenze, Dolphins Ancona PANTHERS PARMA: The Panthers, coming off their championship win last season, remain one of the favorites to clinch the title. Demonstrating both offensive and defensive solidity and led by Head Coach Brian Michitti, they aim to build on their success from the previous season. Reconfirming Michitti as HC, along with new Assistant Offensive Coordinator Jon Eagle, and Defensive Coordinator Daniele Rossi, the Panthers are in good shape to continue  their success. With the addition of 4 American imports, they aim to enhance their chances, especially in preparation for the CEFL championship, which the team certainly wants to win this year. GUELFI FIRENZE: Last season's runners-up showed offensive strength characterized by a powerful offensive line and running plays led by Quarterback Jared Gerbino. Despite the bad defeat in the Italian bowl, the Guelfies,  after restoring their logo, immediately made good trades. They signed American wide receiver Ryan De Luca and offensive linemen Robert Macaj & Mohamed Kane to strengthen an offensive unit that already demonstrated a lot in the previous season. On the defensive front, the Guelfi secured the return of Defensive Back Dejion Lynch, and made significant signings, including Diego Rinaldi (Linebacker) and Giacomo Insom (Defensive Lineman and captain of the Italian National Team ), both from Seamen Milano in the ELF. DOLPHINS ANCONA: The Dolphins Ancona are no longer a surprise in the Italian championship, through the years they have established themselves as one of the most solid teams in the IFL. This is attributed to a roster comprising both talented young players and seasoned league veterans. There are numerous updates and confirmations for the Ancona team this season, starting with the new logo, the signings of Americans Hayden Kelly (Linebacker) and Bo Sanders (Defensive Back), and the confirmation for the fourth consecutive year of American Quarterback Colin Digalbo, now a veteran of the team. Through  the years, the Dolphins have consistently demonstrated efficiency in selecting imports, and this, combined with the availability of young Italian talents, has made them, game after game, an increasingly challenging team to beat. Is this the year for the Dolphins Ancona to secure a championship victory? 2024 IFL SOLID TEAMS Skorpions Varese, Rhinos Milano, Marines Lazio SKORPIONS VARESE: The surprise of 2023, the Skorpions Varese enter their second IFL season after reaching the semifinals in their debut year. Last season Varese showed the great ability to win close games despite playing without an American player in defense. Factors contributing to their solidity include team unity, strong youth teams, and Head Coach Nick Holt's leadership. Key signings from Seamen Milano like linebacker Nicolò Fonti and Free Safety Christian Sottura on defense , Offensive Lineman Edoardo Sandonati on offense, and the addition of Quarterback Ryan Griffin, an ex-NFL player from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, raise expectations for Skorpions Varese. The question remains: is the hype justified, or is Varese truly ready for the big step? RHINOS MILANO: Despite struggling in 2023 due to offensive and defensive inconsistencies, Rhinos Milano has made strategic moves in the offseason. Thanks to the hard work of Head Coach Christian Nobile and the team’s community, notable Italian players, including Defensive lineman Claudio Nicola, Running back Manuel Savoia, and Offensive lineman Matteo Lodovichi, have joined the team. The signing  of Quarterback Hamish McClure from the University of Nevada, and experienced coaches like Offensive Coordinator Khalil Steward and Advisory Coach Brian Pariani adds strength to the Rhinos Milano lineup. If they find offensive rhythm and defensive solidity, Rhinos Milano could be a difficult opponent this season. MARINES LAZIO: The 2023 season for the former Ducks Lazio was not brilliant. The team from Rome faced various challenges due to defensive injuries, lack of experience in the offense, and the absence of a solid offensive line, making it difficult to establish a good rhythm throughout the season. The new year began with a rebranding of the logo and name, transitioning from Ducks to Marines Lazio, and a victory in the youth championship COPPA ITALIA, where the Marines dominated with a significant offensive strength. The expectations for the team this season revolve around the talent of the young players, combined with the crucial signings of new imports, Linebacker Jaren Banks and Defensive Back Charlie Dallape from Vanderbilt (Division 1), and the re-signing of Quarterback Austin Albericci, who showed great performances last year. It is hoped that these factors will be winning elements for the Marines, helping them perform better than demonstrated in the last season. 2024 IFL UNDERDOGS Warriors Bologna, Frogs Legnano, Giaguari Torino WARRIORS BOLOGNA: The union with Vipers Modena in the "Stainless Steel Warriors Romagna" project last season was nothing short of a failure. The expectations for the project were high, but the team won just  two games (one of which was a forfeit by Frogs Legnano).This year, Warriors Bologna, after ending the collaboration with Vipers, return to the IFL, announcing Samuele Rigato as Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator, and Renato Gargiulo as Defensive Coordinator. Both are highly experienced names in the Italian panorama. The team has also signed Americans Ashley Brooks (quarterback) and Warren Bartlett (linebacker). The Bologna team is an unknown entity in this championship, and it is hard to predict how the season will go. Therefore, the first home game on March 2nd against Giaguari Torino will provide answers about the true value of the team. FROGS LEGNANO: With a season marked by ups and downs, the Frogs Legnano had some difficulties finding a good rhythm during the 2023 year. The team, full of  young talents, struggled with the inexperience in the IFL championship, being in their inaugural season. They alternated between excellent performances, characterized by great performances from American Quarterback Eystin Salum, and heavy defeats. The Frogs' season begins with the signings of three key Italian players from Seamen Milano: Offensive lineman Marco Colombo (European champion with the Italian National Team), Free Safety Tommaso Calegari, and Cornerback Saad Alí. Additionally, they announced the signing  of two high-level US imports: Damon Sheehy Giuseppi from the Cleveland Browns and Quarterback Eystin Salum, mentioned previously. These signings strengthen the Legnano team and raise expectations for their performance. Despite being considered underdogs, will they manage to secure a spot in the IFL 2024 playoffs? GIAGUARI TORINO:  The Giaguari Torino is the only new entry from IFL2 in this championship series this year. Last season, they lost the semifinal in the second division against Aquile Ferrara. Despite this, they decided to take the big step and return to IFL after a 4 year hiatus. The Giaguari's season begins with the signings of former ELF players, both on defense and offense, such as wide receivers Tamsir Seck, Andrea Serra, and Lorenzo Bassi, Linebacker Enzo Mensah, and Cornerbacks Felix Proulx and Bismark Yeboah. Concerning American imports, Defensive Lineman Luke Dunsmoor and Tight End Adrian Tolber have been announced. These significant additions to the roster raise expectations considerably for the Torino team, which will show a mix of young talents and players with considerable European experience. Therefore, in my opinion, despite being defined as underdogs, the Giaguari will be a significant surprise in this season.

At the 2016 HBCU Celebration bowl, in a one-on-one matchup, the offensive team’s receiver catches a touchdown for his team. But after a replay, it was determined that the receiver was not in full control of the ball, therefore it was ruled an incomplete pass. This story is NOT about that receiver claiming redemption, it is about the defensive back who used that moment to gain his confidence back. Nolan Corpening responded two plays later with a crucial breakup to get his unit off the field. “3 years of coach ripping my confidence doesn’t matter anymore. This moment made me remember who I was as a player.” Fast forward to 2024, and Nolan Corpening II is a professional football player for the LG OLED Las Rozas Black Demons in Spain’s LNFA 1. The Corpening Origin Story Corpening grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina, where his dad got him involved in track and field at a very early age. By the time he was 6 years old, Nolan was playing flag football, and it became his preferred sport by the time he was 12 years old. “Being an inner city kid with other talent around , it created a certain competitiveness that carried on throughout my athletic career.” Corpening is a defensive specialist, and credits some of his play-style mentors to former NFL stars Ed Reed and Champ Bailey. To Be the Best, You Have to Beat the Best Success was the norm for Nolan as a youngster playing football, whether playing offense or defense. He finished his High School career as one of the best skill players in the Charlotte area, being rated a 2 star recruit at the time. “My proudest high school moments come from me competing on the college camp circuit constantly shutting down D1 receivers at Corner and winning co-mvp my senior season in the hardest conference in all of North Carolina Football.” Football Can Change A Life Nolan is very open about his personal growth through the game of football, and was willing to give me great insight into his journey. “My challenges came mostly in college , where my attitude and confidence needed to be molded into a positive manner. Walking through the door I look more like a track athlete than a football player. So at times, a younger Nolan would put myself out there so I would have no choice but to defend my ability. In a team atmosphere where we have to compete against our teammates first in fall camp and practice, it was not as healthy as it should’ve been. My production was consistent but not falling in line or respecting who was in front of me was an issue for our Cornerback room my freshman year. My love for the game and community has been the same since my beginnings. I have always given back what I learned and passed on confidence and resilience to others.” Playing Style of Nolan Corpening Charlotte produces athletes, and Nolan Corpening is one of them. The defensive back credits his playing style directly to where he was raised. Quick footed, fast, and the ability to compete would be a brief description of Corpening on the field. Having seen him play personally, I would had that he has the “it” factor that makes him a big play type on either side of the ball. His ability to play both sides of the ball allows him to have a greater impact on a single game, making him the complete x-factor. “The way I play is a direct reflection of where I’m from. I am the outcome of this and it led to me teaching others and continuing to set the standard for those who came behind me." Player/Coach Life Nolan Corpening is currently playing for the Las Rozas Black Demons, but he is much more than that. Corpening is also the Defensive Backs coach for the Black Demons Junior and Senior teams. He has always been a leader/teacher when it comes to the game of football. “My high school showed that elite athletes were in Charlotte, mainly because we were the first to have the right coaching . This led me to teaching the coaching what I had learned in high school to the little league players and the middle school players. Even into my overseas career, I am consistently coaching Defensive backs and junior teams. Giving back the knowledge is huge to me and I will continue to coach after my playing career is over.” Reflection “The most beautiful aspect of my football career is that I can truly say I grew as a man with the game . From finding success and confidence with my talents , to understanding that the response to competition will make or break an athlete, to seeing what is too much confidence and it can blind you to the reality , and finally seeing what a championship culture is and feels like. I won 3 conference championships in college. Coming overseas my first few seasons, I was thankful for the opportunity, but then I wanted others to learn what a champion's mentality really is. In my last 3 seasons I have played in a championship game. Winning only one, but learning along the way on how to show my team how to walk , talk, and to think like a champion . Pressure is the privilege of the capable; added with the heat of our environment will eventually cut that diamond out the rough or crumble those who are not."