THE University of Worcester is ready for a big sporting occasion tomorrow.

Worcester Royals play their first game in British Universities American Football League Conference Three North against Oxford Cavaliers at the Henwick Grove venue (1pm).

American football has been played at the university for the last five years but the Royals have only been set up in the last two.

The team concept was originally put forward by a former student and now coach, Peter Baker.

Known then as Worcester Cardinals, Baker developed the idea and among those who joined was Andy Kite, also now a coach.

Two years ago, the team were told their name and strip did not match the university so they became Worcester Royals and the colours changed to blue and white.

In 2008, the team appointed their first professional head coach but he left after just two weeks due to other commitments.

Students Jon Goddard, 23, and Richard Penwright, 19, then took over the management and coaching.

Penwright, a Birmingham Bulls linebacker, has a level one British American football coaching qualification.

But the team’s progress was again slowed down when a problem with kit supply meant a wait of five months rather than just two weeks.

The team’s confidence was dented but sheer determination meant they battled and trained hard and arranged an associate game against the BNU Buccaneers.

Even with limited time for full-contact training and the fact the team had no coaching staff, Royals pulled of a fine 40-30 victory against the Buccaneers.

Interest in Royals flourished and they appointed a head coach in Ken Gray who led Team USA.

Other additions among the coaches include the experienced Jason King, Jonathon Riddell, Noel Fischer and Kevin Fish.

The Royals feel they have the best coaching staff among all universities which has helped them recruit 25 new players for this season.

Tomorrow’s game is particularly important for Goddard, who will be wearing his heart on his sleeve.

His mother was diagnosed with breast cancer a few years ago but, after fantastic treatment, was given the all-clear.

Goddard hopes to raise awareness of breast cancer at the game and he said: “Obviously, it’s a special game for me but more so for the team.

“With the hurdles the team has overcome in the last few years, to be about to kick off our league run is brilliant.

“The university has been a massive help and I am hoping that we can make the play-offs this year.”

A cheerleader performance has been lined up for half-time along with other entertainment and food.