The
Judges are pumped up and ready to take the American Football championship! The team has
started preparing for the new season, with their first meeting taking place October 2. I
had the opportunity to interview offense captain Oğuz Karataş (IAED), and Demirhan
Öztürk (PS). They explained the issues with the previous regulations for American
Football teams and the changes that have been made.
In the past two years, the Judges were playing against pro teams with players that were
much older and had already graduated. This definitely had an impact on the outcome of
games. As Oğuz stated, The Judges could lead the game for the first two periods, but they
couldn't keep the momentum going through because they were not as experienced as the
opponents.
This year, there will be one championship for professional teams and one for university
teams. The Judges will take part in the university challenge, where they will consistently
square off against opponents within their age and weight range. Eighteen teams in 4 groups
will be working hard to qualify for a birth in the semi finals. The Judges are in the same
group with Gazi, Ankara and Konya Selçuk Universities.
As we continued to talk, I found out a bit more on the characteristics of the teams,
players and officials involved. Anyone weighing between 70 and 142 kg can play American
Football. Players with stronger, heavier bodies have a greater advantage.  Additionally, athletes with other sports
experience can adapt easier to playing American football. The current coach of The Judges
is Alper Angın - the first coach of the Turkish National American football team. After
praising his coaches and the trainers from the Physical Education and Sports Center, Oğuz
acknowledged that as a captain he has important responsibilities. There are 4 captains on
each team. He is responsible for the offensive line. After the team coaches, captains are
team leaders who are involved in maintaining discipline and working with team players to
keep up morale and motivation.
The Judges appear to be confident that they will be championship contenders this year.
Their main concern is student support. The first game in their championship bid will be
held at Bilkent campus in the first week of November against Gazi University. This
promises to be a tough game! The Judges have a challenge ahead of them. So, head out and
show your support and pride! Paint your faces, put on your Bilkent shirts, make some
banners and get ready to make some serious noise for YOUR team. The more student backing
they can get, the more of on edge they will have to completely CRUSH...no, make that
ANNIHILATE their opponents!
Candost Volkan (IE/II)
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