“There are four main university teams playing full-contact football – Hertfordshire, who are the national champions, Portsmouth, Southampton and Royal Holloway in London – but at least a couple more, including Warwick and Coventry, have ‘flag’ teams [where players are “tackled” by opponents ripping a flag from their waistband, rather than wrestled to the ground].”
While not being ready to play in Finland at this summer’s World Championships – which features six countries – Messenger’s side will take on the hosts, and maybe other emerging nations, in a parallel five-a-side event.
One of his players, Beccy Small, is inspired by Silberman’s exploits.
The 26-year-old wide receiver and cornerback, who started playing for the University of Hertfordshire women’s team 18 months ago, was first drawn into the sport while watching her male friends play.
She said: “I like the physical side of the game. Sometimes when we play against the men they hold back a little bit on us but I appreciate it when they go all out against us.”
As for those who might mock women like Silberman’s dreams, Small said: “I don’t think gender should come into it. If she’s good enough to play, she’s good enough. I have a lot of respect for her and really hopes she makes it.
“I hope that even her attending the combine will inspire more women into playing the sport, especially in the UK.”
That’s partly what motivates Silberman, who said: “I realise I may not make an NFL team this year, but I’m getting to meet interesting people and perfect my technique. Regardless of the outcome of the try-out, I hope there is a way I can contribute and strengthen the league one day.
“I’m going to be doing a lot of practising [before the try-out] but I’m really seeking to start nailing those 60-yard [field-goal kicks – close to the NFL record].”
And, were she to be signed by an NFL club, how would she feel about coming up against 6ft 6in, 320lb opponents?
“Hopefully I’ll have a good [offensive] line that won’t let anyone through to tackle me.”