2024/25 British Dodgeball Men’s English Super League Preview – Nottingham Sheriffs
Nottingham Sheriffs enter the 2024/25 Men’s Super League with a renewed sense of purpose. After battling to retain their league status last season, they’re ready to take on a new campaign, armed with fresh faces, hard-learned lessons, and a determination to climb the table.
Reflection on Last Season
“Stressful is probably the word!” said Vice Captain Sam Ward when reflecting on last year. The Sheriffs had close battles throughout the season, with narrow one-set losses to Rangers and Bees, and hard-fought draws against Phantoms and Bees. These moments highlighted the team’s potential but also emphasized the fine margins in the league.
“If we could convert these performances into wins against these sorts of teams, then we’d be much more comfortable by the end of the season,” Ward noted. At the same time, they recognized their position: “We also weren’t significantly better than the teams below us,” he admitted, referencing tight contests against Spartans 2s and Night Hawks. In a league where every team is competitive, the Sheriffs know that consistency and execution will be key to improving this season.
Preparation for the New Season
The Sheriffs have worked tirelessly in the off-season to sharpen their edge. Several players gained invaluable experience at the World Championships, and the squad is “fit and raring to go.” The team will look different this year, with Cam Relton stepping up as captain and key additions like Balint Borbas from Cyclones and Tim Day from Meteors bolstering the roster.
“We have a few new additions to the club this season,” Ward shared, highlighting the new energy and depth brought to the squad. The integration of players from last year’s 2s into the 1s has also created a dynamic mix that promises to make the Sheriffs a tougher proposition for opponents.
Goals and Expectations
The Sheriffs are aiming high this season. “Ultimately, our goal is to join the ever-growing group of teams fighting for the top half of the table and medal positions,” Ward explained. To achieve this, the team knows they must convert narrow losses into wins against their rivals and maintain consistency against teams at the lower end of the table.
However, the league’s rising competitiveness poses challenges. “Most other teams will definitely feel the same, and the league gets tougher every year,” Ward acknowledged. But the Sheriffs remain optimistic that their improvements will help them push for a stronger finish.
New Challenges: Facing Storm 2s
The Sheriffs start their season against newly promoted Storm 2s, a matchup that comes with its own set of challenges. “We certainly can’t take Storm 2s lightly,” Ward warned. “They’re a team rich in Super League experience, and they’ve beaten us in the past when we were both in League One.”
Storm 2s also benefit from training alongside their 1s, who are expected to be contenders this season. “The result of the first game might end up setting the tone for the whole season for both teams,” Ward noted. With both sides eager to make a statement in their opener, fans can expect a fiercely contested matchup.
With a mix of fresh talent, hard work, and a desire to improve, Nottingham Sheriffs are poised to take on the 2024/25 Super League. Whether they can climb into the top half of the table remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: they’ll bring their characteristic fight and resilience to every game.
