Rejuvenated for the 2010 season, a London Blitz player took take time out for an exclusive one-on-one interview in a new segment called Man to Man Coverage. This week, Chrest the Press lines up in man to man opposite London Blitz Defensive Back, Dion Andrade.

Chrest the Press: The team regained the Premier Division title and the National Championship last season. Do you see it as retribution for BritBowl XXII?
Dion Andrade: Even though it did feel good to get a hat-trick on the Jets, we learned from the mistakes that we made, the previous year in BritBowl XXII,. We formed a real family bond which and played with a chip on our shoulder (which is still there because we aren't finished!). We made sure we went out together, and earned the right to regain those titles.

CtP: Knowing that the regular season was going to be extended with the addition of the London Cobras to the Premier Division this year and the Blitz being a part of the EFAF Cup for the first time in their history, has that changed the way you've prepared for the season at all?
DA: Definitely! Knowing the season was going to be a long one, I've had to change my training routine to prepare my body for it, I'm lifting more and even taken up yoga (I'm telling you it’s the best decision apart from joining the Blitz that I have made!). It’s going to be a long and hard season, mentally and physically, and I don't want to miss a thing. The team have also helped with the Addition of coach Cameron's sessions on a Tuesday nights.

CtP: How does playing in the EFAF Cup compare to playing in the BAFA Premier League?
DA: My outlook is everybody is human, the only thing is they now speak different languages. The EFAF Cup is interesting because it's a step into the unknown for us, I didn't have a clue about any of the teams we were facing until the fixtures list went out, so at first I was shocked but after Amsterdam I believe my family (Blitz) can put our name on the map. BAFA has gotten stronger with the addition of the Cobras and all the teams improve every year. So at the moment I would only give the EFAF the upper hand because of the international experience those teams have.

CtP: What are your thoughts ahead of the final EFAF Cup group game against Les Cougars?
DA: As my former Cougar Yeye says " Yeaaa Bubba yeaaa, it’s all about Caviar". Seriously though we know it’s a big game. Not because of who they are but what beating them will do for the club. At the end of the day they are in our way and they want the Cup as much as we do. So it’s up to us to show how much. They are going to bring it, but they don't know about this family we don't take kindly to disrespect on our turf so I guarantee that my family will leave all and then some on the field.

CtP: How hard is it to establish yourself in a team that has so much strength in depth?
DA: It’s tough but I don't let that phase me, I have to concentrate on what I am doing. I have to watch game tape and study the play book. It’s a challenge that I love though because everyone works hard and there are some guys from last year really stepping up. With line-ups evaluated every week now everyone is really pushing. I tell you Monday’s SQUEAKY BUM TIME! So getting selected is a real honour.

CtP: Do you have any advice for any other players, who may not be playing as much as they'd like at the moment?
DA: Get in your play book, learn your adjustments. Let them become second nature. It’s all about doing the little things. When you get the opportunity show it in practice then when you get on special teams show it then. Your moment will come I have been where you are, not getting on the field and feeling down about it. Talk to your coach and the guys in your unit see what you need to do to improve. To be honest the only one that can really change that situation is you, the family notices improvement. I can testify to that.

CtP: What do you think about Chris Evans taking part in a practice session as part of his Sporting Challenge?
DA: I feel sorry for him. Na it will be good to get the club and the sport noticed, you don't really get any bigger over here than Chris Evans so its a good face to associate to us and the sport. I just hope he is ready to be BOGLED!! 'just sayin' ; ).

Team Pride BLITZ

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