U16 GAMEDAY PREVIEW: WEEK ONE
We catch up with new under-16 head coach, Liam Docherty, ahead of this weekends opening tournament as our youngest Knights head to Leicester to take on the Panthers and Phoenix.
Liam Docherty takes control for his first BAFA tournament as head coach.
This Saturday marks not just the start of the season for our Under-16 squad, but the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the history of the Northants Knights Academy. Tournament 1 in Leicester will see a fresh crop of young Knights take the field—most of them for the very first time—as they go into battle under the leadership of newly-appointed Head Coach, Liam Docherty.
For Head of Academy, Jack O’Beirne, this is a particularly special moment.
“I’m excited to see this young group of players take their first steps into football, and Liam take his first steps as a head coach. He played under me for three seasons and was captain when we were undefeated Division 2 national champions, so I know he has the pedigree to be successful in leading these young men.”
Liam’s journey from player to coach has been one built on passion, discipline, and belief. Stepping up to lead a group of eager rookies is never easy—but it’s a challenge he’s embraced head-on.
“Becoming head coach was a huge leap for me,” said Liam. “But with all the backing from the coaches and backroom staff, it was an easy transition. The support system here is amazing.”
The Knights U16 squad heads into the weekend facing two tough matchups—against hosts Leicester Panthers at 12:00, and against the always-dangerous Coventry Phoenix at 14:00. Despite the tough opening schedule, Coach Docherty remains focused on development, resilience, and the journey ahead.
“Pre-season went well—we had our ups and downs, but we stayed resilient. Every training session was a step forward. These young lads have worked hard to better themselves and I’m proud of the progress we’ve made.”
One of the biggest challenges? Experience. This is an extremely young group, with around 80% of the team making their American football debut this weekend. But even with that, Liam sees opportunity—not obstacles.
“Week one will be a test for us, but it’s one we’re ready for. Keep an eye on rookies Tommy Walsh and Jacob Grindley—two young guns with heaps of potential who’ve impressed massively in training.”
As a program built on growth and opportunity, the Knights Academy prides itself on giving new players the tools and the culture to thrive. This weekend will be about much more than just the scoreboard—it’s the foundation for the future.
Let’s go, Knights. The journey starts now.