A SLICE of the USA comes to the North-East when the region’s newest American Football club kicks-off the new season.

The DC Presidents, formed two years ago, start their second season in the British League’s Second Division North on Sunday, May 12 against Edinburgh Wolves at Durham City FC’s Esh Group Stadium at Belmont.

The club has signed five new coaches, including GB Junior Coach Ben Johnson, and more than 40 new players, many of whom have joined from other clubs, making a squad of 65.

Also new this year is the club’s 15-strong cheerleading squad, the Liberty Belles who will make their debut at the Edinburgh game. The club’s junior section is also competing in a national league for the second season.

Club manager Jeff Rutter said the club hoped to create “an American High School experience” at games.

He said: “Fans attending can expect that with a 300 seated covered stadium, American food served all day, a licensed bar, cheerleaders, full match commentary with mic-ed up referees, free match programme and much more.

“Fans at the season opener are also in for a treat with over 30 American motorbikes attending from the North East Harley Davidson Club as well as an American Football store on site.

“Also there at the game will be the teams 2013 adopted charity, the RSPCA, who will be fund-raising on the day with the help of the cheerleaders.”

Gates open at 1pm and kick-off is at 2.30pm. Admission costs £4 for adults, £2 for under-16s, and is free for under-10s.

The Presidents play all their five home games in May and June. Details are at www.dcpresidents com and the club Facebook page.