Top RB in France, Andreas Betza signs with Samsung Frankfurt Universe

The Frankfurt Universe have signed one of Europe’s top running backs, French team national Andreas Betza for the 2018 season.

The 5’8″, 185 lb native of Cameroon, Africa, who grew up in Avignon, France, led the French league in rushing in 2017 with 1,211 yards and 21 TDs while playing for the Thonon Black Panthers, helping the team reach the French championship game. In 2016, he scored six touchdowns in the Serbian championship game, leading his team, the Kragujevac Wild Boars to the Serbian title.

Frankfurt compiled a 12-2 regular season record in 2017 and reached the German semifinals, losing in a thriller to the Braunschweig New Yorker Lions.

Frankfurt head coach Brian Caler is definitely happy with the signing:

“Andreas is exactly the type of running back that every coach would like to have. He is fast, agile and brings a lot of power. He is one of the best running backs in Europe and we are happy to have him with us.”

American Football International asked Betza about the move to Germany and the Universe.

American Football International: You have moved from one powerhouse team to another in three years. Why the move to the Frankfurt Universe?

Andreas Betza: I would go to the best place I’ve found to increase my football skills and knowledge.

AFI: You will be the feature back on one of the top teams in Europe. How does that feel?

Betza: I feel pretty excited to step on the Universe’s field for the first time and show what i am capable of

AFI: How old were you when you started playing football and where?

Betza: I started at the age of 17, in the club of the Avignon Warriors in the south of France where I grew up.

AFI: What do you enjoy most about the game?

Betza: The pressure and excitement you feel when you play against a big team. Big time players step up in big time games

AFI: What are your best attributes as a running back?

Betza: Definitely my speed, my elusiveness.

AFI: How do you think football has developed in Europe?

Betza: With communication first through the import players and coaches I guess. There is so much more football knowledge now from overseas.

AFI: You have any favorite foods from your travels in Europe?

Betza: Everywhere I go, chicken will be my favorite food.

AFI: What are your expectations for 2018?

Betza: To improve my skills, win the GFL, the Big6 and be one of the top 10 running backs in Europe.

Check out Betza’s highlights from the 2017 season with the Thonon Black Panthers

Highlights from Amiens Spartiates