Before the most important game of the season for Ljubljana Silverhawks we have been talking to their quarterback, Kenric McNeal – former Texas A&M receiver:

You have now been in Slovenia for a month and a half. What is the thing you enjoy the most or have fun doing that you usually don’t do in the States?

Kenric McNeal: What I enjoy most of all here is the change of culture. It’s amazing to me how nice people are here even being total strangers. Also, I’ve learned to appreciate the city centre of Ljubljana. Coming from a huge city like Houston, I’m not used to having a neutral area where everyone goes to enjoy themselves on the daily basis.

You have been playing at a top level in the NCAA D-I competitions. Can you elaborate on the differences and similarities between American college football and American football in Europe?

Kenric McNeal: When comparing D-I football to European football I notice a few differences, and many similarities. No matter what country you are in, football is a physical sport. Other similarities I notice here is the passion, commitment and the strong bond I share with my teammates. Mainly the differences between the two levels include: speed, size, and mental toughness, which is very understandable because American football is not a main sport here, and is still in the growing stages.

You had played your first game for Silverhawks against the Wild Boars. Can you go back and tell us how you felt playing QB after a while?

Kenric McNeal: My first game at quarterback instantly reminded me how much fun it is playing football. Transitioning from wide receiver to quarterback was a great change, but nothing I haven’t done before.

How strongly do you feel that Silverhawks will beat the Wild Boars and qualify for the finals?

Kenric McNeal: I believe with everything in my heart we have a great chance at beating the Wild Boars on Sunday. They have a great squad with many weapons, but so do we. I honestly believe we haven’t scratched the surface of our full potential, and we have practiced with that in mind leading up to this game. If we play at our best, nobody in CEFL can beat us.