A HEREFORD American Football team have appointed their first head coach.

Paul Kent has joined Hereford Stampede having been a successful player.

He started as a quarterback for several years and also coached on the sidelines for teams such as Swindon Storm.

Kent will head up the coaching team at Stampede, which also includes an offensive and defensive co-ordinator and will have a mix of experienced players and rookies at his disposal.

Following a successful couple of years in the on-contact 'flag football' version of American Football, the team are now making the step up to full contact.

"Having a qualified head coach signed up is just one of the criteria’s that the Stampede have been set by the games governing body BAFA and they are now looking to fulfil these over the next 12 months in their first associate season," said Hereford Stampede spokesman Steve Williams.

"This will see us have a minimum of five officiated “friendly” games to show that we are ready to be entered into the National League Division Tweo for the 2019 season.

"We are still on the lookout for new players.

"After running three successful taster sessions in September, which saw our member levels swell, we are offering free training sessions for anyone out there thinking about getting into the sport.

"All of the equipment is supplied so all you need to do is turn up with your boots and gum shield and have some fun."

Training sessions take place at Hereford City Sports Club (also home to Greyhound Rugby Club) from 6.30pm to 8.30pm every Wednesday and from 9.30am to 12.30pm on a Sunday.

The club are also seeking sponsorship opportunities.

Anyone that maybe interested in sponsoring the club can contact them via their Facebook, Twitter or Instagram accounts or by emailing sponsorship@herefordstampede.co.uk