With children off school and families looking for affordable activities close to home this summer, the East Kilbride Pirates are encouraging people to experience the excitement of live American football.
As interest grows in the NFL and the possibility of Scotland hosting a regular season game in the future at Murrayfield Stadium, more people are becoming curious about American football. The East Kilbride Pirates want to show that you don’t have to travel to London or the United States to enjoy the sport, you can watch competitive American football in the Southside of Glasgow.
The East Kilbride Pirates play their home games at Braidholm, the ground of GHA Rugby Club, where supporters can enjoy an exciting afternoon of live sport in a relaxed and family friendly setting. With a covered stand, pitch side bar, free off-street parking and excellent public transport links, Braidholm is an easy and accessible choice for a day out.
Whether you’re already a fan or have never seen a game before, everyone is welcome. The East Kilbride Pirates pride themselves on creating an atmosphere where new spectators feel part of the action. These games offer families something a little different and are a chance to introduce children to a new sport.
As the cost of attending many professional sporting events continues to rise, an afternoon at Braidholm is an affordable alternative, offering plenty of excitement on the field while supporting local grassroots sport.
Amanda McDonald, Club Chairperson for the East Kilbride Pirates said,
“American football is one of those sports that’s even better when you see it live. Whether you’re a long-time NFL fan or have never watched a game before, we’d love to welcome you along. You don’t need to know every rule – our live gameday commentary helps bring the action to life and explain what’s happening on the field, making it easy for everyone to enjoy.”
She added,
“We’re really proud to call Braidholm our home. GHA have made us incredibly welcome, the facilities are excellent, and it’s given us the opportunity to create a gameday experience that everyone can enjoy – and that we regularly win awards for. None of it would be possible without the hard work of our volunteers, who give up their time to help make our gamedays happen. With step-free access, a covered seated stand, family and dog-friendly atmosphere and the chance to enjoy a drink and a snack pitch side at the Braidholm Boozer, it’s a great place to catch a game! “
GHA Managing Director, Adam Gordon welcomed the growing partnership between the two clubs.
“It’s our mission to be one of Scotland’s leading community sports clubs and partnerships like this with the East Kilbride Pirates are an important part of that.
“When the opportunity came to welcome them to Braidholm, it felt like the right fit. We’re both grassroots clubs built by volunteers and committed to giving everyone the chance to get involved in sport.
“We’re proud to support the Pirates and hope even more people will come along to Braidholm to enjoy live sport and see what both clubs have to offer.”
The Pirates compete in the British American Football League against teams from across the UK, with players giving up their own time to represent their club and grow the sport in Scotland.
The next opportunities to watch their senior team in action at Braidholm are
Sun 19 July Manchester Titans 3.30pm* (U19 playing at 12 noon)
Sun 2 August Nottingham Caesars 2.00pm
Sunday 19th July fixtures are set to be one of the biggest matchdays of the season, with a double-header against the Manchester Titans. The Pirates Under-19s kick things off at 12 noon, with a place in the playoffs still to play for, before the senior team takes to the field at 3.30pm against last season’s conference champions. Both teams will also be wearing their distinctive all-black strips as part of the club’s annual Blackout Game. With two games, it will be a great opportunity for families and first-time visitors to experience American football at Braidholm.
Entry to all regular season home games costs £6 on the gate, under 12s go free – card or cash payments accepted.
Images courtesy of Colin Robinson, Robinson Photo
