Emil Andexlinger (number 51) from the IFAF Development Team

You never know what you will learn at an event like the 2012 International Bowl as the participants come from all corners of the world, and today’s trivia is that IFAF Development team member Emil Andexlinger is not only one of the top American football players in Norway but also the Norwegian Junior Sumo Wrestling Champion.

Yes, you heard that correctly, Sumo Wrestling.

For those of you who may not know the rules of Japanese style of wrestling, here is a quick rundown of the sport that originated in ancient times as a performance to entertain the Shinto gods.

The Rules:

The wrestler who first touches the ground with anything besides the soles of his feet, or who leaves the ring before his opponent loses. Fights take place on an elevated ring, called a “dohyo”, which is made of clay and covered in a layer of sand. The fights themselves usually last only a few seconds, or in rare cases, about a minute.

What is also impressive about Emil’s Sumo Wrestling Title is that it was his first time ever competing in the sport. Talk about a quick learner.

He received an invitation to the tournament from his football coach who was also competing in the senior division.

“My coach was like ‘I have a team of American Football players, so why not take us. So me and four other guys from my team went to the tournament last November,” Andexlinger explained.

He also credits his football experience to his immediate success in Sumo Wrestling.

“It is basically the same as football, but once you take your hands off the person you just have to remember that you can only touch the mat with your feet.”

 “It was fun, but I never thought I would win,” said Emil. 

But let’s get back to the football field. The Norwegian who lines up at defensive line, returns to Austin for a second year having also been on the first-ever IFAF Development team last year. He started playing football at the age of 13 and currently plays for the Valerenga Trolls. He has had a lot of success in Norway winning the U16 championship and the U19 championship twice.

Emil, who currently plays on their senior team, did not think twice about returning for a second year.

“The experience was just super last year,” said Andexlinger. “I met guys from all over the world, and I have a friend from Australia that was here last year too, so it has been great to meet up with them again.”

“And I am also glad to be back, because this event has made me a better player.”

And the Sumo Wrestler Champion’s thoughts about the2012 International Bowl game that kicks off on Wednesday, February 1 in Austin, Texas:

“I don’t think the USA players are any tougher than us,” said Emil. “Some may be bigger, but I don’t think they are better.  It will be a great game.”

 The game kicks off at 5pm CT at the Kelly Reeves Athletic Complex.

International Bowl rosters, game and ticket information is available at www.InternationalBowl2012.com and at www.IFAF.org.

American football fans outside of the US will be able to tune in live via a webcast at www.USAFootball.com/InternationalBowl.