Coventry Bears

The Carvell Coventry Bears Ladies team will be traveling to Stanningley in Leeds today for their second festival of the season. The trip brings back fond memories for team captain Debbie Drake, Stanningley was where she played her last game for Coventry University as captain 4 years ago. That day they played Manchester University in the BUSA final.

“Coming into that game we were the massive underdogs and knew we had to play better then we ever had before” said Debbie. “With 10 mins to go we were 10 points down but we came from behind to become BUSA champions in the dying seconds of the game. I remember shedding a few tears that day but also being so proud of the girls that played that day. Most of those girls have played for the Bears since that day”.

Speaking about the festival Debbie commented “All the girls are apprehensive about going up there. We remember watching the mens games a couple of years ago against Bramley Buffalo’s who also play at the Stanningley ground. The crowds get really into the game and this can be quite intimidating. We know what kind of reception to expect. Rugby league is very strong up there and we know its going to be a tough test for us and also a very physical confrontation. All sides at the festival will be strong. We should have a good squad to pick from this weekend and are hoping to do ourselves justice against some of the more experienced teams” Next weekend the Ladies will be away playing on the Sunday at RAF Cranwell in the first of their games against the armed forces. Debbie was upbeat about playing “Unfortunately we will be playing with some of our most experienced players missing due to their England Student’s call up. But I’m confident however we will put on a good show” she said.