ANOTHER 25 rookies got the chance to try out American football for the first time as Furness Phantoms wrapped up the first part of their preparations for the 2019 season.

The Ulverston-based club have spent the past two months reaching out to potential players, with rookie days in Kendal, Millom and their home town prior to last Sunday’s session at Furness Academy.

Players of all ages and sizes were in attendance to take their first steps in the sport, with the newcomers having the opportunity to try out the position they wanted to play in.

Among them was Mayor of Barrow Bill McEwan, who took part in training drills along with showing support for the Phantoms.

New players are welcome to join in the team’s training sessions in Ulverston on Wednesdays from 6pm to 7.15pm, and Sundays from 10.30am to 12.30pm. Boots and a gumshield are a must.

Furness Phantoms 2019 fixtures: Apr 14 - Morecambe Bay Storm (H); May 5 – Halton Spartans (A); May 19 – Knottingley Raiders (A); Jun 2 – Halton Spartans (H); Jun 9 – Leeds Bobcats (A); Jun 30 – Morecambe Bay Storm (A); Jul 7 – Leeds Bobcats (H); Aug 4 – Knottingley Raiders (H); Play-off quarter-finals – Aug 11; Play-off semi-finals – Aug 18; Final – Sep 8.