By Rian Fearnehough
Leicester Panthers prepare for their first game in 27 years as they take on Edinburgh Wolves in both team’s opening game of the British American Football Association premiership season.
The Leicester Panthers have returned after disbanding in 1996 and are looking forward to their first game back as they face the trip up to Edinburgh to play the Wolves.
The Panthers and Wolves will both be hoping to get their seasons off to a strong start and send a message to the rest of the division.
Panthers head coach Stuart Franklin said: “I’m extremely excited by the return of the Panthers. I hope the whole city of Leicester will celebrate the Panthers return by coming to support us this season.”
The Panthers will be hoping to build on the success of the Falcons last season as they won the NFC South going unbeaten throughout the season.
Despite the strong season, the Falcons lost to the East Kilbride Pirates 29-21 in the playoffs. However, winning the NFC South promoted the Falcons to the Premiership for the first time since 2019.
The Edinburgh Wolves finished the 2021-22 season with a record of 4-4 in the BAFA premiership north.
The Wolves will be hoping they can make it into the playoffs for the first time since 2016 as they head into the 2023 season.
Coach Franklin added: “Edinburgh are an established top 6 team in the Premier division in British American Football. They are well-coached and are always physical.
“It’s tough as it’s both team’s first game of the season and you just hope you’ve prepared enough to give a strong performance on the day.”
The game will take place in Edinburgh at Peffermill playing fields at 2 pm on Sunday.
