NCAA To Britball – One Player’s Journey

Christian Holmes is a Baller, in fact, he’s a NCAA division 1 baller. A two-way sensation at Mississippi State between 2011 and 2014, he graduated in December ’14 having notched 100 tackles and scored two touchdowns, one of them a spectacular 61 yard on-side kick return against Kentucky (check it out on YouTube). Over the last few weeks however, he’s been playing in the British Senior league, for the Northern Conference champion Tamworth Phoenix.

Tamworth coach Jason Scott met Holmes during his time as an assistant coach at MSU and has an ongoing friendship with the player. “Christian went undrafted but still harbours the dream of playing pro- ball” noted Scott, and living in Denver until recently, he has close ties with some of the Bronco’s players.

Mindful that there may be opportunities to play in Europe he reached out to Scott who offered him the chance to join the Phoenix’s push for a national title. He’s been an instant hit with the players due to his infectious enthusiasm, unwavering dedication to his team, and winning mentality. Without hesitation he has been welcomed into the Tamworth “Phamily” as it’s known. I asked him what he thought of the playing standard. “We have some great athletes on the team, I was surprised at the level of organisation and play. In the States, we kind of knew that Football was popular in the UK, but generally people think you guys just like to watch. It’s been great to have the chance to play and pass on some knowledge”. Disappointingly, Tamworth couldn’t get past the London Blitz in the play-off semi-final, so Holmes will now look to venture deep into Europe to continue his Football journey. “Hopefully I can get signed to a semi pro team, rack up some highlights and get another chance back home” said Holmes.

You can’t help but warm to him, and as he pursues his dream, wherever he ends up playing to continue pursuing his dream, he’ll always be part of the “Phoenix Phamily”.