Gridiron: Edinburgh Wolves trio picked for GB team

Published on Friday 6 March 2009 09:16

Edinburgh Wolves, the Capital's Gridiron team, are celebrating this week after three members of their squad were selected to play for Great Britain Lions this year as the national side moves toward their goal of qualifying for the 2010 European Championships.

Offensive lineman Ed Forrester, running back Jordan Hepburn, and defensive end Duncan Tanner have been chosen to represent the Lions.

Wolves coach and former Lions player Don Edmonston said the city squad were proud of the trio's accomplishment.

"We're very much a team on the rise, and I the call-ups for Great Britain squad confirm that. It proves we're heading in the right direction. We're really proud of the lads.

"Two of our GB players only started last year, having joined from other sports. So this is a great accomplishment.

Hepburn joined the Wolves from a background in rugby, while Forrester has experience in rowing at University at national level.

Edmonston added: "I think the fact that they've reached this level in only their second year shows that we can offer athletes great opportunities in the sport, due to the facilities and experienced coaching staff we have here.

"This means that in Scotland, only East Kilbride have more representatives on the GB squad than us. Our guys have worked hard to make the team and they should be pleased with their achievements."

The trio face a series of tough challenges this weekend during training camp at the sportscotland National Centre in Largs. Their abilities will be put to the test in anticipation for their first GB match in July, against a soon-to-be-named opponent.

Meanwhile, the Wolves are gearing up for the 2009 season opener on May 3 at Manchester before their first homegame at Meadowbank Stadium on May 17 versus Highland Wildcats. Edmonston says he hopes to announce pre-season games against two upper-division sides in the coming weeks.