Connor Leckey at West Liberty

The Connor Leckey interview

Who are you and where are you from?

I am Connor Leckey from Templepatrick, Co. Antrim.

How and when did you get into American Football in the first place?

When I was 14 my friend brought an american football video game to my house, and i had never seen any other sport like it. I love playing most sports and when I found out about the IAFL I had to give it a go.

Which IAFL team did you play for?

I played for the Belfast Bulls from 2006 – 2008 and the Carrickfergus Knights in 2009.

Connor in Carrickfergus Knights uniform.

How did you get to go to West Liberty? Do you enjoy your time there? What academic course are you doing?

In my time playing in the IAFL some people had mentioned to me about college football in the US. I knew very little about NCAA football but I searched online and found a free recruiting site, so I made a profile. It took a while but I eventually got interest from some schools and scouts. One scout told West Liberty University in West Virginia about me, as they where looking for Offensive Linemen.

I visited West Liberty in April of last year, where I got to talk to the coaches and work out for them, and was offered a scholarship shortly after

I am greatly enjoying my time at West Liberty, where I am studying Political Science.

What is it like to play for a college team in the US?

Playing at West Liberty is definitely a different experience from playing in the IAFL. We train or work out almost every day and are constantly challenged both physically and mentally

How many hours a week do you train?

We have around 20 hours a week in organized team activities along with any other individual preparation.

Could you make a career at American Football?

It is very difficult to make it to the next level, and more than often than not talented athletes come up short. However, professional football players have come out of West Liberty so anything is possible.

How many IAFL players have made a college football team?

As far as I understand another Offensive Lineman from the IAFL made it to a D3 school a few years back. And I know that a wide receiver that I played with on the Bulls worked out with a team in Carolina. I believe I am the first Irishman to play D2 ball.

Do you do other sports?

I also love Rugby and Basketball, and I race boats in my spare time.

Which teams do you support?

Ulster and Irish Rugby, the St Louis Rams and the Carrickfergus Knights!

What are your plans for next year?

I am currently getting stronger and fighting for my spot on the team. I am trying to become the best Football Player I can be.

Connor at West Liberty, West Virginia