Defensive lineman Duncan Gray joined the Tigers early in the 2019 season and made an immediate impact – blocking a field goal in only his second game.
The big man in the trenches added an imposing physical presence to the defensive line, especially after starting tackle Antwan Givens went out of the season opener away to the Northumberland Vikings and missed the rest of the year.
Looking ahead to his second year, Duncan is putting in off-season work and getting set to rejoin his teammates in January when the Tigers pre-season kicks off. We looked back over his first year, and why he would recommend trying out for Glasgow’s American Football team.
Tigers: Why did you decide to try out for the Tigers this year?
Duncan: Been a fan for the game for decades and I’d always wanted to play and never took the step. I decided it was now or never and did some research online and dropped the club a line – the rest is history.
T: What was the highlight of your rookie year with the Tigers?
D: Genuinely been a season of highlights, but the last game of the season sticks out. We lost, but everyone that played really dug in and took it to the wire – and the bus trip back was a real team bonding experience.
T: What was the biggest challenge you faced in your first season?
D: Personally, my fitness was my biggest challenge but training with the team has really helped that and drove me to redouble my efforts in the gym.
T: What surprised you most about your first season?
D: How laid back and welcoming everyone was. Didn’t know anyone on the team and felt really included from the get go.
T: Why would you recommend trying out for the Tigers to any new players?
D: Not only is it a great game and great team to play for but the coaches and players are a great bunch of folk too – the camaraderie and support is impressive.
Interested in following Duncan’s lead and trying American Football for yourself? Join us at our Open Tryouts in January at Toryglen Regional Football Centre – get all the information and let us know if you’re attending on the Facebook event page.
