European League of Football: Barcelona Dragons host talent filled combine

| American Football | 02/24/2022

The Barcelona Dragons hosted their second combine in as many years this past weekend in search of Spanish talent to add to their growing squad. Estadi Municipal de Reus played host to players from all over the area who made the trip. More than 150 players were in attendance eager to earn a spot on Spain only ELF Franchise.

The large group of Dragon hopefuls were so plentiful they had to be divided into two groups, splitting the combine up into two separate four-hour sessions. Bart Iaccarino, the Dragons General Manager, offered his thoughts on the event:

“It has been a very positive day. We have had an even more interesting day than a year ago. After a year, after having played the first season of the European League of Football, we have seen how the players have worked hard to get to the Combine in the best possible conditions. We have also seen a more interesting level than a year ago. We are very satisfied with how the day has developed and happy with the overall result”

Out of the attendees hoping to impress the Dragon’s coaching staff, a few players made strong cases for a roster spot. Rubén Quintana was one of the days top prospects recording the best 40-yard dash and broad jump.

Watch Quintana’s 40-yard dash below:

Another quick player who raised eyebrows was defensive back Pablo Araya. The athletic defender is a native of Spain who returns to his home country after playing junior college football in the US. The 5’11 185-pound Spaniard made 58 tackles for Gold West College (JUCO) last season, and now seems to have his eyes on playing in the ELF.

Top performers of the day:

• 40 yards: Rubén Quintana – 4,57 seconds
• 20 yards shuttle: Alex Pacheco – 4,08 seconds
• L Cone: Pablo Araya – 7,03 seconds
• Broad Jump: Rubén Quintana – 2,89 meters
• Bench Press: Gabriel Palmeira – (27 reps with 100kg)

The Dragons are one of a few teams in the ELF that are excited to bring back the majority of their 2021 team. Barcelona has also added European import Benjamin Plu and former Washington State standout Kyle Sweet. Management is hoping to find a few more pieces from the combine to help fill the gaps in a developing roster.

Alex is a former NCAA and semi-pro American football player who is now located in London, where he works in digital marketing. His goal in writing for AFI is to stay involved with the game that has given him so much. Alex enjoys covering leagues and