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We’re saddened to learn of the passing of Neil ‘Neo’ Edwards.

Coach Neo was incredibly passionate about the game here in the UK, and he was well known across the British American football community.

We know a lot of people in our community will be shocked and saddened with this news, and we are sending our thoughts to each player, coach, and fan of the game who crossed his path.

Our thoughts, love, and prayers go to Neo’s friends and family during this difficult time.

I was deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Coach Neo Edwards. Neo was an influential figure in the growth of our game, with a string of impressive achievements both as a player and a coach – it was no surprise he was recognised as one of the inaugural inductees in BAFA’s Hall of Fame. It’s clear from the messages I’ve seen posted today, how greatly loved and respected he was within our community. Our sport will be much poorer without his energy, enthusiasm and leadership. On behalf of BAFA, I would like to extend condolences to his family, friends and team mates.

Pete AckerleyBAFA CEO
Hall of Fame 2021 Entry

Neil came to the game as a sixteen-year-old, playing for the Finsbury Park Stallions junior side. His natural enthusiasm and energy soon saw him develop into a tough tackling linebacker and team leader. He was a key player for the London Olympians where he won six national championships and was a stand-out for the GB Lions between 1997 and 2006. In 2000, he was selected for the NFL Europe player pathway programme and transitioned to play safety where he commanded the defensive backfield. He played in the semi-pro German Football League for the Stuttgart Scorpions and then spent time in the Italian League with the Ancona Dolphins. Returning to the British league, he was the inspirational catalyst for two championship winning teams, the PA Knights in 2004 and then the Coventry Jets in 2007. With his natural leadership skills, it was no surprise when he moved into coaching. He has been the defensive backs coach for the GB Lions, as well as the head coach for the Olympians, before taking up his current role as defensive co-ordinator with the Kent Exiles.

He was fiercely passionate about the sport in the UK, and wanted to share that passion.

Jason ScottGB Lions Head Coach