With the Emirates American Football League rapidly growing in popularity throughout the region, Sport360° decided that it was time to learn a bit more about the players taking the gridiron by storm.

This week we spoke to Abu Dhabi Wildcats defensive back Mojtaba Elzubeir to find out which American Football team he supports and what rule he would like to see changed.

Mojtaba Elzubeir

Abu Dhabi Wildcats

Height: 177cm

Weight: 175lbs

Age: 25

Position: Defensive back

Born: Abu Dhabi

Years with the Wildcats: Two.

Honours: The first ever Desert Bowl last year.

Favourite childhood memory of football: I only got into the game recently so most of my memories are recent ones.

Favourite player growing up: Ed Reid.

Team you support and why: The Baltimore Ravens, I love seeing the way they play defence.

Best player at the moment: Peyton Manning at the Denver Broncos.

A rule you would change: I’m not sure, I think I’d like to see more game time, so maybe two more periods added to the game.

Other sports you have played and to what standard: Judo and Ji Jitsu to almost professional level.

Greatest achievement in any sport: When I lived in Canada I played on my college soccer team – the team was the best in Canada.

If you could be a pro, which sport and why: American football, I love the intensity and how everything is pre-planned, it’s not just aggression.

Favourite meal: Chicken, anything chicken.

Favourite place in the UAE: Abu Dhabi, man, my home town.