Joe Kinahan.

Minotaurs name their captains for the season ahead

Continuing their preparation for the upcoming season, the Westmeath Minotaurs named their four team captains for the 2020 campaign.

The process of selection required those desiring a captaincy to put their names forward for a team wide vote by the players.

The team was asked to consider the club’s core values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honour, integrity, and personal courage (both physical and moral) when considering who they would vote for.

This past Sunday, the club announced that J O Coyne (Mullingar), Steven Nally (Athlone), Joe Kinahan (Kinnegad), and Niall King (Athlone) were selected by their teammates to lead the 2020 squad.

Coyne, Nally, and Kinahan all return to the team captain post from last year’s team and they welcome Niall King who is serving for the first time.

Head Coach Bill Dougherty had this to say about his team captains:

“All four of these individuals are great American football players but more important than their playing skills is the leadership they bring to the club both on and off the field. It's not a coincidence that all of this years’ captains also serve or have served in important off field roles such as committee member, youth coach, social media officer, and flag football coordinator.

“The passion they have for the club and the sport is exceptional. All are fierce warriors on the field. The players respect and will respond to their leadership. These captains will ensure the team maintains focus on the task ahead; which is essential to our success this year as we work our way through a demanding schedule.”

The Minotaurs continue preparations for their first home game at the Mullingar Rugby Football Club on March 15th at 1pm against the Belfast Knights.

This is a test match for both clubs as they seek to set the tone for the upcoming season in the very competitive first division of the American Football Ireland League.

Belfast is rebuilding after relegation from the Premier Division last year while the Minotaurs look to return to the Division One championship game for the second year in a row. All eyes in Division One are looking at this game to see if two teams with massive potential can turn in a solid performance. No doubt league planners had a test of potential in mind when scheduling this early match. Attendance is free so come out to experience what will sure to be a cracker of a game.