Foy leads gridiron rookies in defence and offence

IN a team full of novices, linebacker Benny Foy is a unique Cairns Falcon with almost a decade of experience playing gridiron.

Foy, originally from Alice Springs, played the North American-loved game in Can- berra for five years and continued playing after relocating to the Far North.

In the Falcons third game of their seven-game series against Townsville, Foy scored Cairns’ first points with a sixyard touchdown run last Saturday in Townsville.

Coach David Tibbetts labelled Foy a “a veteran play- er and a team leader” for the inexperienced Falcons, a job the defensive stopper enjoys.

“Every week we have taken another step forward,” Foy said. “We have so many rookies, every player is taking it on themselves to improve for the club.

“It is great to watch these guys soaking up the infor- mation to do the best we can. We have a big chance this weekend to get this first win.

“There are four team leaders, we take it upon ourselves to do as much as we can for the team and help out.”

The Falcons host the fourth game of the seven-game series against the Cyclones this afternoon at Holloways Beach Sporting Complex from 5pm.

As well as recording the first touchdown of the season, Foy also contributed four runs for 40 yards and two kick-off returns for 110 yards in the unusual slot of running back.

With the Falcons short of players, Foy played both offence and defence, a role he said he enjoys.

“It was a great feeling,” Foy said. “I do not usually play a lot of offence but we were very short on numbers last week.

“Everyone pulled together. I jumped in on offence and got the first score of the season.

“I love getting my hands on the ball as much as possible but it does not always happen on defence.”