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Swamp World Cup side ready for dirty tackles
A FOOTBALL team from Whitby will perform its filthiest tackles this weekend at the 2009 Swamp Soccer New World Championships.
Whitby Walruses – captained by Robbie Unsworth – will be one of 44 teams from all over Europe taking part in the tournament in Strachur in Scotland.
Robbie told the Gazette this week: "I saw the competition on TV last year and thought that, as we can drive now, I would look it up on the internet and found it was happening again, so I organised a team.
"We have all finished school this year and a lot of us are going to university or moving away so it is an ideal send-off."
The Walruses play three games in their group and need to come top to progress.
The games are played on a pitch just larger than a five-a-side pitch, which is covered with water leading up to the tournament and will be knee-deep in some places.
Tomorrow morning, Walruses get their campaign under way against Threemiletown Big Bangs then play Real Mudrid tomorrow afternoon and then Sporting Abeergut on Sunday morning.
Robbie added: "We are very competitive and have been getting into shape for the tournament.
"We had a training session on the beach this week and things are looking promising."
Robbie's team-mates are Gary Marsay, Jamie Waters, Max Horrowitz, Liam Dudman, Joe Harland, James Gash and Chris Knight.
Originating from the bogs of Finland, the tactics of swamp soccer are simple.
Mixed or same sex teams of six players are required, with one goalkeeper, five outfield players and an unlimited number of subs. Matches last for 24 minutes.
Rules include no offside, plus drop-kick kick-offs, throw-ins, corner kicks, free kicks and penalties.
No shoe changing is allowed for the match duration though fancy dress is permitted.
Training is not necessary, though participants' fitness may be challenged during boggy playing conditions.
The Whitby Walruses will be provided with free pairs of waterproof, windproof and breathable socks by sponsors SealSkinz Sport.
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Weather for Whitby
Thursday 09 February 2012
Today
Light snow
Temperature: -0 C to 1 C
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Light snow
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