THE Black Country Vipers American Football Club have had five members selected to represent their country at international level.

Three players, Theo Eddy, Louis Gallagher and Max Reynolds, have been selected for the Great Britain under-19s whilst Jack Marks and George Mason will line up for their under-17 counterparts.

All attended open trials and competed against hundreds of players from the four corners of the British Isles. They will now attend a series of training camps in preparation for the forthcoming European Championships.

The players are understandably excited about their selection and the opportunity to represent the national team.

Eddy said: "Every one of us is over the moon, without the Vipers we wouldn’t have had this chance. This will be something we remember for a very long time."

Chairman of the Black Country Vipers, Stuart Potts-Perkins, said: "For a team with such a short history having five players selected to the National squad is an outstanding achievement, for the individuals and the club.

"This goes to show that American Football offers great opportunities for young people. We at the Vipers would love to give more young people the same opportunities, if anyone is interested in playing American Football they should contact the club as we are always on the lookout for new players."

The Vipers run teams at youth (13 – 15 years) and junior (16 – 19 years) levels, they play and train at Stourbridge Rugby Club and can be contacted via Facebook or the club website blackcountryvipers.com.