2009 Tampa Bay Storm Dance Team Unveiled

Tampa - The Tampa Bay Storm is pleased to announce the lineup for the 2009 Tampa Bay Storm Dance Team. The team is made up of 16 dancers, 11 veterans and five rookies:

Veterans

Sasha - 3rd year (Captain) Yanielle - 2nd year

Charlyne - 4th year (Captain) Brittany - 2nd year

Brooke - 4th year Darcy - 2nd year

Jessica - 3rd year Leah - 2nd year

Stephanie - 3rd year Priya - 2nd year

Heather - 3rd year

Rookies

Chelsea Kalesta

Danielle Vanessa

Jaclyn

"I am extremely proud of these girls, as well as the ones who were not selected. It is difficult to subject yourself to this kind of scrutiny," said Tampa Bay Storm Dancer Choreographer Kindra Strocher-Ebanks. "In the end we can only take 16...that did not mean that we did not have 29 amazing young women out there."

The dancers had to survive three preliminary cuts to become one of 29 finalists. Most of the dancers have been training for months; working out and taking dance classes to prepare themselves to make the dance team. Finalists had additional rehearsals, fitness evaluations, interviews and a final public appearance last week.

"All of these ladies share in their love for dancing and performing. They are gorgeous and talented every year, this year was certainly no exception. The judges had their work cut out for them," added Strocher-Ebanks. "Every season the dynamic of the team changes, I am excited to get started and to get know this new group."

The Tampa Bay Storm look forward to next season with many key players from 2008 returning. All-Arena defensive lineman Tim McGill, quarterback Brett Dietz, wide receivers Hank Edwards and Tyrone Timmons among others will be back to take the 2009 AFL season by storm. For 2009 Storm season ticket information please call 813.301.6600.

Rage Dance Team Final Auditions Open to Public This Sunday

GRAND RAPIDS - This Sunday (Nov. 9), Grand Rapids Rampage fans are invited downtown to Grand Woods Lounge to watch local dancers vie for a spot on West Michigan's premier professional dance team. Hosts of WGRD 97.9's "Free Beer & Hot Wings" morning show will serve as guest judges for the Rage Dance Team's final auditions, which will take place from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. EST.

Following a first round of tryouts this past Sunday (Nov. 2), 28 women were selected to participate in this weekend's culminating event. Included among the prospective Rage Dance Team members are former Rage dancers, college dancers from schools such as Grand Valley State University, Aquinas College and Grand Rapids Community College, and representatives of several local dance studios. All candidates are 18 or older and have graduated from high school.

Fans attending the Rage Dance Team final auditions this Sunday will meet the prospective dancers and watch them perform a short routine. Director of Dance Kimberly Herr and the Rampage will announce the official 2009 Rage Dance Team the next day (Nov. 10) on RampageFootball.com. Food and drink specials will also be offered by Grand Woods Lounge during the event.

Richardson Named Player Of The Month

Montreal, Nov. 6, 2008 - Montreal Alouette receiver Jamel Richardson has been named the CFL's Offensive Player of the Month for October.

Richardson caught 38 passes for 423 yards and eight touchdowns last month, setting the pace for the Alouettes to go 2-3-0 as they clinched first place and the right to host the East Division Final this Nov. 13 at Olympic Stadium.

Last Oct. 18, in Game 16 at Toronto, Richardson caught his 14th and 15th touchdown passes of the season, breaking Jeremaine Copeland's 2003 team record of 14. A veteran of five CFL seasons, Richardson led the league in 2008 with 16 touchdowns, and was fourth with 1,287 yards on 98 receptions.

The Alouettes will play the winner of this Saturday's East Division Semi-Final between the Edmonton Eskimos and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (RDS, TSN, 1 p.m.).

The East Final will be held this Nov. 15 at 1 p.m. at Montreal's Olympic Stadium (RDS, TSN, CKAC SPORTS, CJAD 800).

Former OU Standouts Assigned to Yard Dawgz Roster

OKLAHOMA CITY - The Oklahoma City Yard Dawgz have been assigned two former University of Oklahoma playmakers, WR Jarrail Jackson and DB Jason Carter, and veteran DB Travis Seaton has re-joined the Yard Dawgz in their quest for the 2009 ArenaCup.

Jackson (5'11, 195) played four games with the Tulsa Talons last season and had 17 receptions for 181 yards and 3TDs. In 2007, Jackson was with the Manchester Wolves and Yard Dawgz, collecting 95 receptions for 967 yards and 21 TDs. He became the af2 all-time leader for kickoff returns for touchdowns (15) and the third player in af2 history to score 900 points in a career. In the final regular game of the season, Jackson had 440 all-purpose yards and was named the Schutt Offensive Player of the Week by the af2 league office.

"I'm happy to be back in Oklahoma City and feel like I have something to prove," said Jackson. "This is my home and I'm excited about the upcoming season and the group of players that Coach McEwen has compiled."

Jackson was the Yard Dawgz team leader in kick returns (1,349 yards), receiving yards (1,541), all purpose yards (3,065) and scoring (234 points) during the 2006 season and was named to the af2 National Conference 2nd Team. In his first season with the Yard Dawgz (2005), he led the team in receptions (125), receiving yards (1,636) and TDs (33). Jackson was also the leading kick returner (55-for-1,393 yards; 4 TDs) and FG returner (6-136 yards). Jackson was with the Tulsa Talons in 2000 and 2001 followed by three years in the Arena Football League with the Buffalo Destroyers (2002-2003) and Columbus Destroyers (2004).

"Signing Jarrail Jackson to our roster definitely adds depth to our talented receiving corps as well as experience that is needed to win ArenaCup Championships," said Yard Dawgz Head Coach Sparky McEwen. "In his years in the AFL and af2, Jarrail has proven that he is a playmaker offensively as well as on special teams."

Jackson played under Head Coaches John Blake and Bob Stoops at the University of Oklahoma from 1996-1999. He was a three time All-Big Twelve Receiver and set Sooner records during his senior year collecting 54 catches for 650 yards and seven touchdowns. He finished his career at OU with eight receiving and return records and holds the Independence Bowl record for most receptions in a game with 10 vs. Ole Miss in 1999.

"Jarrail's return to the Yard Dawgz is very exciting for our fan base and the community of Oklahoma City," McEwen added.

DB Carter (6'0, 195) attended training camp with the Yard Dawgz last season and was with the Sooners from 2003-2006 under Head Coach Bob Stoops. He was a member of the 2004 and 2006 Big 12 Championship teams and the Rose Bowl Championship team in 2003. He played in two national championships (2004 Sugar Bowl & 2005 Orange Bowl) and received his bachelors degree in Sociology in 2006. Carter graduated from Jenks High School in Jenks, Oklahoma, where he was All-State and considered one of the best high school athletes in the nation.

Seaton (5'11, 190, San Jose State University) played in 12 games for the Yard Dawgz in 2008, collecting 4 interceptions for 88 yards and 1 TD. Seaton was second on the team with 52.5 total tackles and 10 pass breakups and had 2 fumble recoveries and 1 fumble recovery for a TD.

"It is a privilege for the Yard Dawgz organization to have been assigned Seaton for another year," McEwen said. "Seaton was arguably the most underrated player in the af2 last season. This signing can mean nothing but positive things for our defense and one of the most critical positions in arena football, defensive specialist.

Seaton was with the Stockton Lightning in 2007 and led the team with 65 solo and 22 assisted tackles (76.0 total) and had 16 pass breakups and 2 interceptions.

Seaton played for the AFL's Philadelphia Soul in 2004 and the San Jose SaberCats in 2002.

"In my experience, Travis has exemplified more leadership than I've ever had out of a defensive specialist during my tenure in arena football," commented McEwen.

Season tickets are now available and start at only $56! Call 405-228-3294 or visit www.okcyarddawgz.com for more information.

Pair of Esks named CFL Players of the Week

(Edmonton) Edmonton Eskimo free safety Siddeeq Shabazz earned CFL Defensive Player of the Week and receiver Kamau Peterson was named top Canadian for their performances in Edmonton's 37-14 win over Montreal on Friday night at Commonwealth Stadium.

His first Player of the Week honour, Shabazz had eight tackles, a special teams tackle, a forced fumble and two quarterback sacks. He helped the Eskimo D hold the Als to just 58 rushing yards and 199 yards through the air. "I was just going to have fun regardless," says Shabazz. "As a team I think we played very well together."

Peterson also had a big night, catching 10 passes for 108 yards and becoming just the fourth Eskimo player to have over 100 catches in a season. He joins Brian Kelly (104 in 1983), Craig Ellis (106 in 1990) and Terry Vaughn (106 in 2003). "I'll take it. Whatever they need me to do I'll do," says Peterson. "It's nice they've got confidence in me like that and I'm just happy to be able to help these guys." Earlier this week, Peterson was named both a CFL West Division All-Star and the West nominee for Outstanding Canadian.

The Eskimos (10-8) head to Winnipeg to take on the Bombers (8-10) in the East Semi-Final on Saturday, November 8. Kickoff is at 11:00am (MTN). For more information on the Edmonton Eskimos visit our website at www.esks.com.

AFL teams to commemorate anniversaries in 2009

NEW YORK - Three Arena Football League teams will celebrate significant milestones in 2009 and each will recognize its achievement with commemorative patches and/or new logos to be displayed throughout the season.

The San Jose SaberCats will celebrate their 15th anniversary this season, the Los Angeles Avengers commemorate their 10th, and the New York Dragons have new ownership, a new logo and team colors.

Since winning its AFL debut in 1995, San Jose has posted a regular-season record of 136-70, which ranks as the highest winning percentage (.660) of any team in professional football over the 15-year span. The SaberCats have captured eight Western Division titles and three ArenaBowl Championships.

"Being in the league for 15 years and having the success we've enjoyed proves that San Jose is one of the premiere organizations in the Arena Football League," explained head coach DARREN ARBET. "I've been with the franchise from the beginning and have witnessed first hand the growth of the SaberCats and the league."

The Los Angeles Avengers are commemorating their 10th season with a new patch and helmet design. While red and blue remain the team's primary colors, yellow has been replaced by white as an accent color. The patch, which features the logo surrounded by a blue circle with the words "Los Angeles Avengers Celebrating 10 Seasons," will be worn on all uniforms throughout the season.

"Our franchise is proud to have provided the southern California community with an affordable, fan-friendly entertainment option for the past nine years," remarked Avengers team president MATT WIKSTROM. "With new head coach PAT O'HARA at the helm, we look forward to building the kind of championship team that our loyal fans deserve."

Earlier this summer, the New York Dragons unveiled their first major logo change since 2001. While black remains one of the primary colors, green and silver have replaced orange, red, and yellow in the team's color scheme. As for the logo itself, gone is the fire-breathing black dragon and in its place is a green dragon wrapped around the letters "NY."

"We want to bring a brand new start to the Dragons football team," Dragons new managing partner STEVEN SILVA said of the team's new look. "Updating the logo is just the beginning. From putting the best football team possible out on the field every night, to making sure fan involvement and customer service is the best it can be, this is the 'new' New York Dragons."

Doug Brown Named Top Defensive Player In East Division

WINNIPEG, MB -Winnipeg Blue Bombers defensive tackle Doug Brown has been chosen as the East Division nominee for the Most Outstanding Defensive Player.

Brown, who was nominated for three major league awards as the Bombers nominee for most outstanding player, top defensive player and best Canadian, will be up against Cam Wake of the B.C. Lions for league honours.

Brown, an eight-year Blue Bombers veteran out of Simon Fraser University, earned his fifth division all-star nod earlier this week after another solid season that saw him play all 18 games. He finished the season with 43 tackles and six quarterback sacks.

A four-time league all-star, Brown has been a three-time division nominee for Most Outstanding Canadian in the past (including winner of the award in 2001), but earns his first selection as the East candidate for top defensive player.

The winners will be announced at the 2008 Gibson's Finest CFL Player Awards show during Grey Cup week on Thursday, November 20 at the Casino de Montreal.

Blue Bombers Players To Appear At New Bomber Store Location At St. Vital Centre

WINNIPEG, MB - Winnipeg Blue Bombers players, mascots and the Blue Lightning dance team will be present at the Bomber Store in St. Vital Centre on Thursday, November 6 to meet with fans and sign autographs at the club's newest locations.

Blue Bombers players Kevin Glenn, Joe Smith, Brendon LaBatte, Ibrahim Khan, Anthony Malbrough as well as East Division All-Stars Zeke Moreno and Dan Goodspeed will be on hand to sign autographs for fans between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Any Blue and Gold supporters wanting to offer the team their best wishes are encouraged to come down to the Bomber Store in St. Vital Centre, where a banner will be on display to be signed by fans and placed in the team's dressing room. Playoff tickets can also be purchased at the organization's second location.

Among the new merchandise available in the Bomber Store is winter gear, as well as memorabilia for autographs.

AFL tryouts "Stand as one of the true opportunities of the American dream"

NEW YORK - The AFL's offseason open-tryout schedule peaks in November with seven events held by six teams hoping to find a future star.

The Dallas Desperados, Los Angeles Avengers and New York Dragons each began the month with open tryouts on Saturday, November 1. For first-year Avengers head coach PAT O'HARA, it was his first chance to see what southern California had to offer.

"We're looking for that diamond-in-the-rough player, someone who hasn't really been seen yet," O'Hara explained. "We also have open invitations to our colleagues coaching in af2 to come out and evaluate the talent. Our tryouts are great events for those in our community to gather and get excited about the upcoming 2009 season."

O'Hara refers to hidden gems such as New York Dragons DB BILLY PARKER.

In 47 career games in three seasons, Parker has amassed 226.0 tackles, 71 passes defensed and 22 interceptions, earning him two (2005, 2008) All-Arena First-Team honors and a spot on the 2005 All-Rookie team. Parker attended a Dragons open tryout in 2004 after driving 300 miles from Virginia and paying a $75 registration fee.

"During Billy's workout, I could tell all the measurables such as height, speed and mobility were there," remarked Dragons head coach WEYLAN HARDING. "In addition to his athletic prowess were attributes such as desire, toughness and passion that cannot be measured or coached. I offered him an invitation to camp on the spot and now he is one of the top defensive backs in the League. These open tryouts stand as one of the true opportunities of the American dream."

Previous hidden gems also included STEVIE THOMAS, who spent nine seasons with the Tampa Bay Storm after competing at an open tryout. Thomas was a member of four ArenaBowl Championship teams during his tenure in Tampa and was voted as the ninth greatest player in AFL history by the 20th Season Historical Committee. MICHAEL LEWIS won a roster spot at an open tryout with the New Jersey Red Dogs in 2000. He earned 2000 AFL All-Rookie team honors and was later selected to the 2002 Pro Bowl as a member of the New Orleans Saints.

Open tryouts also serve as a chance for players on other platforms, such as af2, an opportunity to showcase their skills to AFL talent evaluators. Former University of Miami and current Florida Firecats K JON PEATTIE took his shot alongside 200 potential hopefuls at the Tampa Bay Storm tryouts on October 18.

"I've been a Storm fan for a long time. I've been watching them since I was a kid," exclaimed Peattie. "I came here to meet the coaches and show them who I am."

For the most up-to-date schedule of open tryouts, please visit www.arenafootball.com. Following is a list of completed and upcoming AFL open tryouts:

UPCOMING TRYOUT DATES

TEAM DATE LOCATION NUMBER

Chicago 11/7 Chicago Rush Practice Facility 847/252-7334

12/12

Dallas 11/1 Texas Stadium 972/785-4000

Georgia 11/22 Georgia Force Practice Facility 770/965-3115

Grand Rapids 12/6 MVP Sports Spot 616/975-7708

Los Angeles 11/1 Oaks Stadium 310/407-0235

11/7 Los Angeles Avengers Practice Facility 310/407-0235

New York 11/1 New York Dragons Practice Facility 516/281-2000

Orlando 11/8 Orlando Predators Practice Facility 407/447-7337

Former Bronco Stars Ink With The Burn

BOISE, Idaho - The Boise Burn announced today that two former Boise State University standouts have signed arenafootball2 (af2) contracts and have been assigned to the Burn. Lineman Alex Guerrero and quarterback Taylor Tharp will suit up for Boise when the 2009 season opens in the spring.

"Both Alex and Taylor are well-known in the Boise community, and I appreciate that they want to be part of the Burn," said first-year Burn Head Coach Brent Winter. "Quarterback is the most important position in arena football, and Taylor has the experience and athleticism to excel at this game. Alex's motor is always running, and he'll be a positive influence on younger players we expect to sign for 2009."

Guerrero played the final game of the 2008 season for the Burn, recovering one fumble and returning it 10 yards. He also had three tackles, one for loss, and on offense he caught one pass for 12 yards in a loss to Spokane.

He was one of the defensive stalwarts for the Boise State team from 2002-05, helping BSU to a 45-7 record and two bowl game victories in four years. Following his BSU career, Guerrero signed a free agent contract with the Minnesota Vikings where he played on the practice squad in 2006. He also spent time that year in the Seattle Seahawks' and Kansas City Chiefs' camps. In 2007, Guerrero was assigned to the Rhein Fire of the NFL Europe League. He was signed by the Hamilton Tiger Cats (CFL) last season, but was released following training camp.

Quarterback Taylor Tharp was named Western Athletic Conference second-team quarterback following the 2007 season. In his only season as BSU's starting quarterback, Tharp recorded fifth most total offensive yards in school history (3,131), the third most passing yards in school history (3,090), the second most pass attempts in school history (379), the second most completions in school history (259) and the fifth most touchdown passes in school history (28).

The Colorado native's best game with BSU was against Louisiana Tech, when he completed 21-of 35 passes for a career-best 328 yards and five touchdowns.

The Burn kick off their third season in 2009. A schedule will be released soon. Season tickets are currently on sale by calling the front office at 208.383.0080.

Six Stamps Among West Division All-Stars

The Calgary Stampeders are proud to announce that six members of the club have been named to the West Division all-star team: Quarterback Henry Burris, running back Joffrey Reynolds, receiver Ken-Yon Rambo, centre Rob Lazeo, cornerback Brandon Browner and kicker Sandro DeAngelis.

Selections are made by the Football Reporters of Canada and each Canadian Football League team also has one vote. The league will announce its all-Canadians on Wednesday, Nov. 12.

Here's a look at Calgary's six selections:

Quarterback Henry Burris (Second-time division all-star)

Burris is the club's CFL Player Awards nominee as most outstanding player. He led all CFL quarterbacks with a 13-5 win-loss record, including an 8-3 mark against teams with a winning record. Burris has set career highs for passing yardage (5,094), touchdown passes (39), completions (381), completion percentage (64.5) and touchdown-to-interception ratio (39:14). He also led all quarterbacks with 595 rushing yards and ran for three touchdowns.

Centre Rob Lazeo (First-time division all-star)

Despite many changes on the offensive line, the Stamps allowed the third-fewest sacks in the league (30) and had the second-best rushing average (6.4). Lazeo was the cornerstone of the unit as he played in all 18 regular-season games for the first time in his 11-year career and he made all the right calls for a predominantly young unit.

Running back Joffrey Reynolds (Fourth-time division all-star)

Reynolds led the league with 1,310 rushing yards. It's his first rushing title after finishing second twice (2005 and 2006) and third last season. Reynolds also scored 10 touchdowns on the ground. He continued to grow as a receiver, as well, catching 41 passes for 288 yards and two more scores. He has been a West Division all-star in all four of his full CFL seasons.

Receiver Ken-Yon Rambo (First-time division all-star)

Rambo won the league's receiving crown on the last day of the regular season with three catches for 81 yards against the BC Lions. He finished with 1,473 yards and eight touchdowns on 100 receptions. The 100 catches are a career high and this was his first 1,000-yard season.

Cornerback Brandon Browner (First-time division all-star)

While opponents tend to stay away from Browner, he still finished second on the Stamps with three interceptions and third with 61 tackles. He also forced three fumbles, recovered two fumbles, had a quarterback sack, eight pass knockdowns and 14 special-teams tackles.

Kicker Sandro DeAngelis (Fourth-time division all-star)

The most accurate kicker in CFL history has enjoyed another stellar season. DeAngelis converted a league-high 50 of 58 field goals for an 86.2 percentage. He also was strong on kickoffs and led the league with a career-high 217 points. He has been a West Division all-star in all four of his CFL seasons.

Here is the complete West Division all-star team:

OFFENCE

Quarterback Henry Burris Calgary

Running back Joffrey Reynolds Calgary

Running back Wes Cates Saskatchewan

Receiver Ken-Yon Rambo Calgary

Receiver Geroy Simon BC

Receiver Kamau Peterson Edmonton

Receiver Paris Jackson BC

Tackle Jason Jimenez BC

Tackle Rob Murphy BC

Guard Gene Makowsky Saskatchewan

Guard Patrick Kabongo Edmonton

Centre Rob Lazeo Calgary

DEFENCE

Defensive tackle Aaron Hunt BC

Defensive tackle Dario Romero Edmonton

Defensive end Cameron Wake BC

Defensive end Brent Johnson BC

Linebacker Maurice Lloyd Saskatchewan

Linebacker Javier Glatt BC

Linebacker Anton McKenzie Saskatchewan

Defensive halfback Jason Goss Edmonton

Defensive halfback Korey Banks BC

Cornerback Brandon Browner Calgary

Cornerback Dante Marsh BC

Safety Barron Miles BC

SPECIAL TEAMS

Kicker Sandro DeAngelis Calgary

Punter Paul McCallum BC

Special teamer Ian Smart BC

2008 East & West Division All-Stars Announced

Toronto, ON (November 3, 2008) - The Canadian Football League (CFL) announced today the 2008 East and West Division All-Stars. The Division All-Stars were selected by 41 voting members of the Football Reporters of Canada (FRC), the eight CFL head coaches and CFL fans from across the country.

Through the Future Shop CFL All-Star Balloting program nearly three quarters of a million player selections were cast by fans across the country.

The FRC voting panel consists of representation from each CFL market and a national chapter.

The Future Shop CFL All-Star Balloting program reopens today for fans to make their selections for the 2008 CFL All-Stars. The final round of voting for fans closes on Saturday, November 8, prior to first game of the 2008 Grey Cup Playoffs.

The CFL's defensive all-stars will be unveiled in a highlight video on CFL.ca on Wednesday, November 12 followed by the CFL's offensive all-stars, on Thursday, November 13.

Fans can vote by visiting CFL.ca or www.futureshop.ca.

EAST WEST

OFFENCE OFFENCE

QB Anthony Calvillo MTL QB Henry Burris CGY

RB Avon Cobourne MTL RB Wes Cates SSK

RB Fred Reid WPG RB Joffrey Reynolds CGY

R Arland Bruce TOR R Paris Jackson BC

R Ben Cahoon MTL R Kamau Peterson EDM

R Jamel Richardson MTL R Ken-Yon Rambo CGY

R Kerry Watkins MTL R Geroy Simon BC

T Josh Bourke MTL T Jason Jimenez BC

T Dan Goodspeed WPG T Rob Murphy BC

G Scott Flory MTL G Patrick Kabongo EDM

G Paul Lambert MTL G Gene Makowsky SSK

C Bryan Chiu MTL C Rob Lazeo CGY

DEFENCE DEFENCE

DT Doug Brown WPG DT Aaron Hunt BC

DT Keron Williams MTL DT Dario Romero EDM

DE Jonathan Brown TOR DE Cam Wake BC

DE Gavin Walls WPG DE Brent Johnson BC

LB TJ Hill MTL LB Javier Glatt BC

LB Markeith Knowlton HAM LB Maurice Lloyd SSK

LB Zeke Moreno WPG LB Anton McKenzie SSK

CB Mark Estelle MTL CB Brandon Browner CGY

CB Davis Sanchez MTL CB Dante Marsh BC

DB Kelly Malveaux WPG DB Korey Banks BC

DB Chris Thompson HAM DB Jason Goss EDM

S Kenny Wheaton TOR S Barron Miles BC

SPECIAL TEAMS SPECIAL TEAMS

K Damon Duval MTL K Sandro DeAngelis CGY

P Nick Setta HAM P Paul McCallum BC

ST Dominique Dorsey TOR ST Ian Smart BC

Four Riders Named To Western All-Star Team

The Saskatchewan Roughriders are pleased to announce that four players have been chosen to the Western Division All-Star team. The Green and White had two players picked on offence and two on defence. The Division All-Stars were selected by 41 voting members of the Football Reporters of Canada (FRC), the eight CFL head coaches and CFL fans from across the country.

WES CATES (RB): In his third CFL season, Cates earns his first Western Division all-star nomination. Cates had a career regular season in which he led the team and was second in the CFL with 1,229 rushing yards. His 12 rushing touchdowns led the CFL. He also recorded 39 receptions for 488 yards and three touchdowns. Cates was also named the Riders nominee as Most Outstanding Player.

GENE MAKOWSKY (OL): In his 14th CFL season, Makowsky earns his fifth straight all-star nomination. The 34-year old lineman has also been named the CFL's Most Outstanding Lineman twice and was the Riders nominee as top lineman and top Canadian. Makowsky started all 18 regular season games this season at tackle, guard and centre.

MAURICE LLOYD (LB): In his third CFL season, Lloyd picks up his second West Division all-star nomination. The 25-year old recorded 75 defensive tackles, nine special teams tackles, five quarterback sacks and five tackles for a loss, while starting in all 18 games this season. Lloyd was also the Rider nominee as top defensive player.

ANTON McKENZIE (LB): In his third CFL season, McKenzie picks up his first West Division all-star nomination. The 27-year old finished the season with 68 defensive tackles, seven special teams tackles, two interceptions and a team leading six tackles for a loss while starting 14 games at linebacker.

Four Esks named to West Division All-Star team

(Edmonton) The Edmonton Eskimo Football Club is pleased to announce that four players have been named to the 2008 CFL West Division All-Star team. DB Jason Goss, DT Dario Romero, WR Kamau Peterson and OG Patrick Kabongo all received the honour for the first time in their careers after being selected by fans through the Future Shop All Star Balloting Program, the Football Reporters of Canada (FRC) and eight CFL head coaches.

Jason Goss - Defensive Back

First West Division All-Star selection Earned CFL Defensive Player of the Week when he broke the Eskimo record for yards on interception returns on Sept. 13 vs. Hamilton. He also became second in CFL history for most interception return yards in a game. Goss had 144 yards on three interceptions and two touchdowns and tied Eskimo records for interception touchdowns in a game (2) and interceptions in a game (3) Goss led the Esks in both fumble recoveries (three) and interceptions (five) this season. Over 18 games (18 starts) he had personal best 53 defensive tackles, six knockdowns, five interceptions for 182 yards and two touchdowns, three fumble returns for 55 yards, one quarterback sack and two tackles for a loss. He also has a punt return for five yards. He is the 2008 Eskimo nominee for the CFL's Outstanding Defensive Player Award for the second year in a row.

Dario Romero - Defensive Tackle

First West Division All-Star selection Enjoying his best CFL season in his return to Edmonton, Romero had 30 defensive tackles, one fumble recovery, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, four tackles for losses and six quarterback sacks, including two in Hamilton on July 25 and two against Sask on Aug 21. He has played in 16 games (15 starts) this season. Romero earned CFL Defensive Player of the Week honours for his performance on Aug. 21 when he posted three tackles and two sacks as the Eskimo defence limited the 'Riders to just 279 yards net offence.

Kamau Peterson - Wide Receiver

First West Division All-Star selection Peterson led all Eskimo receivers with 101 receptions for 1,317 yards and four touchdowns in 18 games (18 starts). This is his second +1000 yards receiving season in a row and he passed the 100 catches in a season mark - only the fourth Eskimo to do so - in the final game of the season. He earned CFL Canadian of the Week when he led all Eskimo receivers with a season high 8 catches for 113 yards and one touchdown in the Labour Day Classic. He is the 2008 Eskimo nominee for the CFL's Outstanding Canadian Award for the second year in a row.

Patrick Kabongo - Offensive Guard

First West Division All-Star selection Kabongo played in all 18 games (18 starts) this season. He made the switch to right guard after playing right tackle last season. Patrick was this year's recipient of the David Boone Award, voted on by his teammates, for his work in the community. He is also the 2008 Eskimo nominee for the CFLPA's Tom Pate Memorial Award which is awarded during Grey Cup week to a player for his commitment to the league, his team and his community.

Fans will now have a second opportunity to vote with the FRC and head coaches to determine the CFL All-Stars. Go to www.cflallstars.com to vote. With every vote you are entered to win exciting prizes, including a trip for two to the 2008 Grey Cup in Montreal. Fans are limited to one vote per day and can vote for as many positions as they wish.

The Eskimos travel to Winnipeg to take on the Blue Bombers in the East Semi-Final on Saturday, November 8. Kickoff is at 11:00am MTN. For more information on the Edmonton Eskimo Football Club please visit our website at www.esks.com.

14 East Division All-Stars For The Alouettes

Montreal, Nov. 3, 2008 - The Canadian Football League announced today the identity of its East Division All-Stars, with 14 Montreal Alouettes being selected. Montreal's 2008 total marks the second-highest total of All-Star selections for one team in CFL history, with the Alouettes having 15 members on the 2004 East team and the BC Lions having 15 on the 2007 West team.

QUARTERBACK: ANTHONY CALVILLO (6th selection - 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2006)

472**/682 (69.2%), 5,633 yards, 43* TD passes, 13 interceptions, 107.2* efficiency rating

RUNNING BACK: AVON COBOURNE (1st selection)

In just 12 games played, 145 carries, 950 yards (6.6 avg.), 66 receptions, 616 yards, 1,566 yards from scrimmage, eight touchdowns

RECEIVER: JAMEL RICHARDSON (1st selection)

98 receptions, 1,287 yards, 16* touchdowns (Alouette record).

RECEIVER: BEN CAHOON (9th selection - 1999, 2000, 2002-2007)

107* receptions, 1,231 yards, seven touchdowns, become the CFL's all-time leader for receptions by a Canadian.

RECEIVER: KERRY WATKINS (3rd selection - 2005, 2006)

84 receptions, 1,178 yards, 10 touchdowns in just 16 games.

TACKLE: JOSH BOURKE (1st selection)

Just 22* sacks allowed for the Alouettes' offensive line, a franchise-record 610* points scored and 7,718* total yards.

GUARD: SCOTT FLORY (7th selection - 2002-2007)

2003, 2005 and 2006 East Division Most Outstanding Lineman, five-time CFL All-Star.

GUARD: PAUL LAMBERT (2nd selection - 2004)

2004 CFL All-Star, started all 18 games.

CENTRE: BRYAN CHIU (8th selection - 2000-2006)

2002 CFL Most Outstanding Lineman, six-time CFL All-Star (2000-2005).

DEF. TACKLE: KERON WILLIAMS (1st selection)

10 sacks, 38 tackles, three tackles for losses, two forced fumbles.

LINEBACKER: T.J. HILL (1st selection)

84 tackles, four sacks, two tackles for losses, one interception for 23 yards, one fumble recovery.

CORNERBACK: MARK ESTELLE (1st selection)

54 tackles, one interception for 41 yards, three knockdowns.

CORNERBACK: DAVIS SANCHEZ (3rd selection - 2000, 2004)

Three interceptions for 53 yards, six knockdowns, 34 tackles, one tackle for a loss.

KICKER: DAMON DUVAL (2nd selection - 2007)

44/53 on field goals (83%), 206 points, 92 kickoffs for 5,697 yards (avg. 61.9)

**CFL Record

*2008 CFL Leader

The EAST DIVISION FINAL will take place on Saturday, Nov. 15 at Olympic Stadium with the Alouettes facing the winner of the East Division Semi-Final between the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and the Edmonton Eskimos (RDS, TSN, CKAC SPORTS, CJAD).

Esks take on the Alouettes Halloween Night

The Eskimos (9-8) are looking to close out the '08 regular season on a winning note against the Eastern champion Alouettes (11-6) before they leave the CFL West Division behind and head to Winnipeg for the CFL East Semi-Final November 8th.

Edmonton has dropped two straight and has a sizeable "to-do" list of things that need to be corrected before they're post-season ready. Of late, the Esks have been plagued by too many turnovers, sloppy tackling and poor receiving. In short there needs to be a dramatic improvement in all facets.

Wide receiver Kamau Peterson knows it's time to put that game behind them and to find a way to get back on track. "You only get so long to dwell on it. At least I give myself so long to dwell on it and I was probably the main culprit. In the same way we don't hang on to our wins, we can't hang on to this because there is another game to play."

Edmonton's nominees for the 2008 Gibson's Finest CFL Player Awards are: Ricky Ray for the Outstanding Player Award; Kamau Peterson for Outstanding Canadian; Jason Goss for Outstanding Defensive Player; John Comiskey for Outstanding Offensive Lineman; and Tristan Jackson for both Outstanding Rookie and Outstanding Special Teams. "That's a pretty good selection right there," says Eskimo Head Coach Danny Maciocia. "Those individuals have had outstanding seasons and they're all well deserving nominations".

Notables

§ This is regular season game 1000 in Eskimo history (581-400-18...home 334-158-7...road 247-242-11). Record vs Montreal is 35-20-2 (home 22-6-0...in Montreal 13-14-2).

§ Ricky Ray needs 1 completion for 400 this season. This will be his 3rd time with 400+ completions in a season...the only Eskimo to do so.

§ The Eskimos are 2-3 on Halloween (1-1 at home). This includes a 20-8 Eskimo win in a division semi-final game against BC in 1959. Also played on Halloween in 1949, 1964, 1971, and 1976.

§ Chris Ciezki needs 2 special team tackles to tie Bruce Dickson for 1st on the Eskimo All-Time List for special team tackles in a season (25)

§ The Eskimos are 3-1 in the last 4 regular season games vs the Alouettes. Edmonton lost 40-4 on September 21, 2008.

§ Jontй Buhl needs 6 tackles for 100 tackles as an Eskimo.

§ Jason Goss needs 7 tackles for 100 tackles as an Eskimo. Goss currently has 182 tackles in his CFL career.

§ Kamau Peterson needs 9 receptions for 100 receptions this season. Only 3 Eskimos have caught 100+ passes in a season... Brian Kelly 104 in 1983, Craig Ellis 106 in 1990 and Terry Vaughn 106 in 2003.

§ Ricky Ray has 11, 300+ passing yard games this season. Anthony Calvillo has 12, 300+ passing yard games this season.

§ Ricky Ray needs 20 pass attempts for 600 this season. This will be his 3rd time with 600+ pass attempts in a season...Warren Moon was the only other Eskimo to do so (664 attempts in 1983).

§ Ricky Ray needs 287 passing yards to tie Warren Moon for the Eskimo All-Time Season Record of 5648 passing yds in a season.

The Eskimos (9-8) close out their regular season at home on Friday, October 31 against the Montreal Alouettes (11-6) at 7:00pm. Buy Eskimo tickets online at ticketmaster.ca or call 451-8000. For more information on the Edmonton Eskimo Football Club please visit our website at www.esks.com.

Brent Winter Named Burn Head Coach

BOISE, Idaho - The Boise Burn announced today that Brent Winter has been named the arenafootball2 team's new head coach.

A ten-year coaching veteran in the Arena Football League, Winter comes to Boise after seven years as Assistant Head Coach/Director of Player Personnel/Offensive Coordinator of the Los Angeles Avengers. He has also coached with the Chicago Rush (Director of Player Personnel/Special Teams Coordinator) and the now-defunct New England Seawolves (Assistant Director of Player Personnel).

Winter (40) is a West Virginia native, and played quarterback at Fairmont State College in Fairmont, WV, where he graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors Degree in Management and Marketing. He earned a Masters of Arts in Education from West Virginia University, and has coached at his alma mater, Montgomery College (Rockville, MD) and Alleghany High School in Covington, Virginia.

"Coach Winter has the extensive Arena Football background that we were looking for," said Eric Trapp, President of the Boise Burn. "He's well organized, has great contacts throughout the AFL, af2 and at the collegiate level. He should be able to recruit and lead an exciting team on the field at Qwest Arena next season and beyond."

"Every coach has a dream of one day being a Head Coach and I feel very fortunate that such a class organization has made the decision to have me bring this team and city a championship," said Winter.

A member of the American Football Coaches Association, Winter has also worked at Pro Football Hall of Fame wide receiver Art Monk's summer camp, and at coaches clinics at West Virginia University and quarterback camps at Ohio University.

Winter and his wife Christina, a first grade school teacher, reside in Redondo Beach, Calif.

The Boise Burn will begin its third season of play at Qwest Arena in 2009. A schedule and more information about the upcoming season will be coming soon. Season tickets, with a variety of pricing options, are currently being offered by calling (208) 383-0080.

Comments from Jim Popp on the MOP award candidates

Montreal - With five Alouettes nominated for the East Division's Most Outstanding Player Awards, Montreal Vice President and General Manager sounded off on the value each has brought to the team this season...

MOST OUTSTANDING PLAYER: ANTHONY CALVILLO

"What an outstanding season, he was by far the most consistent performer in the CFL from start to finish. In my opinion, he's hands down the Most Outstanding Player in the CFL.

You are watching history in the making from a future Hall-of-Famer.

But even as fans watched his outstanding performance on the field, they have missed the countless hours he has put into preparing to function the new offence and balance his personal life off the field.

He is the consummate professional, a dream come true for a new head coach, and a tremendous leader.

The Alouettes' offence leads the league in scoring (570) and touchdowns (61), has scored 30 or more points 15 of 17 games, has most first downs (429), the most yards in total offence (7,484), the highest pass completion rate (69.2 per cent), leads the league in passing yards (5,633), leads the lead in TD passes (43), has thrown the fewest interceptions (13), and leads in efficiency rating at 107.2.

Congratulations to Anthony, Alexia, and their two daughters. The Alouettes know it has been a family team effort."

MOST OUTSTANDING CANADIAN: BEN CAHOON

"Ben has been Ben.

He is so good at what he does, you tend to take him for granted and expect his greatness. It is simply poetry in motion.

He has been consistently the top Canadian from the start of the season to the finish - better yet, he has been consistently the top Canadian since his career started and has deserved this award way more than he has ever won it.

Let's give credit where credit is due.

If you put a highlight tape together of his amazing catches, there is not a player in any professional football league who would have a more impressive film reel. Once again, you are watching a future Hall-of-Famer that is showing very few signs that he can't perform when it needs to get done.

Ben leads all receivers in the CFL in receptions (105), is the top Canadian in TDs scored (7), is fifth in the CFL in receiving yards (1,207), and continued to be consistent, putting up a 1,000-yard season for the eighth time.

He also set a new CFL mark for catches made by a Canadian (859) and has caught at least one pass in 108 consecutive games."

MOST OUTSTANDING LINEMAN: SCOTT FLORY

"Scott is the leader of our offensive line.

He is also a leader in the locker room, and a player rep who has put together a high level of consistent performance for many years.

Because of the performance of the entire line this season, a few players could have been nominated for this award, but the guy who is the Most Outstanding Lineman in 2008 is Scott Flory.

I know many people who think Scott should have won this award at least three times already - including myself - and this should be his year.

When the team leads in multiple offensive categories, it starts with the men up front, and in Montreal it starts with Scott Flory. The Alouettes' offence leads the league for fewest sacks allowed (18), the most points for (570), the most TDs (61), has scored 30 or more points 15 of 17 games, has the most first downs (429), the most yards in total offence (7,484), the most passing yards (5,630), and the highest pass completion rate (69.2 per cent)."

MOST OUTSTANDING DEFENSIVE PLAYER: KERON WILLIAMS*

"What a season Keron has put together.

He is an explosive player whose quickness inside has added a much-needed element to the Alouettes.

He is not only a great player, he is a great person. He never looks for credit - he just loves to play the game. He deserves the East nomination for this award.

He has led a defence that has only allowed one 100-yard rusher, is second in the CFL in sacks, is second in the CFL in points allowed, and he personally sits third in the CFL in sacks.

Keron also leads his Alouettes defensive line in tackles and is third on the team in forced fumbles.

He obviously is up against tough competition in Cameron Wake in the West, but he has held his own and deserves to be mentioned in the same breath."

MOST OUTSTANDING ROOKIE & MOST OUTSTANDING SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER: LARRY TAYLOR

"Larry is by far one of the most exciting new players to the CFL.

Since being added to the active roster, Larry has consistently been at the top of the CFL in punt returns, kickoff returns, and missed field goal returns.

He has been one of the main reasons why the Alouettes are tops in the CFL in scoring and has consistently provided the offence with good field position each week. This has become more and more apparent over the last six weeks of the season, when the opponents have refused to kick the ball his way.

Larry is obviously not only one of the top rookies in the CFL, but is the most consistent special teams player in the league. He is not only a returner, but is also on a number of cover teams. He is also an outstanding wide receiver, but has not been called on this season to show his stuff.

Here are the facts: As much as everyone talks about Dorsey, Smart, and Jackson, Larry Taylor simply has better overall numbers than those three outstanding returners.

Larry is Number 1 in missed field goal returns (three or more returns) at 39 yards-per-return (Dorsey is second at 37.4, Jackson is third at 28.4, and Smart is ninth at 15.3.

Larry is Number 1 in punt-return average (35 or more returns) at 12.3-per-return (Dorsey is second at 11.9, Jackson is fourth at 10.7, and Smart is sixth at 9.4).

Larry is third in kickoff-return average (25 or more returns) at 24.5 yards-per (Dorsey is first at 25.1, Smart is second at 24.9, and Jackson is fifth at 24.0).

As you can see, Larry is the most consistent returner in the CFL.

He also is a true rookie, coming to the CFL right out of the University of Connecticut and not first attending an NFL camp.

He definitely deserves to win one or both of these awards."

Utah's Steve Videtich A Model Of Consistency

SALT LAKE CITY - To have 1,597 points in an Arena Football League career is quite an accomplishment. However, to do so without scoring a single touchdown in a league where wide receivers are the predominant scorers is arguably even more remarkable.

Yet that's exactly what Utah Blaze kicker Steve Videtich has been able to do in his 13-year career. Videtich is first all-time in extra points made (1,048), second all-time in field goals made (182), and fifth all-time in points scored - first among kickers -(1,597). He recognizes his standing among the record books, but what he defines as having a successful career is beyond records.

"In order to be around that long you have to have sustained success. That's what I'm most proud of," he said.

Pragmatically, he probably won't end his career as the all-time field goal leader as Remy Hamilton of the Dallas Desperados has a two field goal advantage and plausibly more AFL seasons ahead of him. Still, Videtich believes overall points and extra points are in his favor.

"He (Hamilton) and I have a little battle going on with each other, he keeps asking me to retire," expresses Videtich with an amiable laugh, "I think he wants a lot of those records as well."

Despite his longevity and his well-established name in the record books, his time in the AFL hasn't always been easy.

Just last year after the first game of the season, where he missed two field goals in a one-point loss, he was cut from the team. That left him in a state of shock and confusion, but he didn't let that affect him. Instead, he continued to work hard and got the necessary surgery and rehabilitation for an injured left knee.

"One game I don't think should have been my chopping block...[but] I think in hindsight everything happens for a reason," he said.

By the ninth game of the season he was back on the team and helped jumpstart the team's surge towards the playoffs.

Said Videtich, "With everything in life you just live and learn and grow from it and move on."

There was a lot of learning and growing in Videtich's early AFL career as he made the adjustment of kicking at a smaller target. The goal posts are nine feet wide with a 15 foot high crossbar in the AFL, while at the collegiate and NFL level the goal posts are 18 Ѕ feet wide with a 10 foot high crossbar.

Videtich, who walked-on at North Carolina State University, explains that while attending college he made over 80 percent of his field goals and rarely missed an extra point, but he knew to obtain the same success rate in the AFL was impractical.

"In this league the biggest adjustment was mentally accepting that I am going to miss every now and then because it just happens," said Videtich, a two-time All-ACC First-Team selection.

His rookie year with the Florida Bobcats in 1996 proved to be a change as he went 10-for-23 on field goals and 70-for-80 on extra points. Nevertheless, by his second season with the New Jersey Red Dogs, Videtich improved respectably by going 21-for-41 on field goals and 71-for-73 on extra points in earning first team All-Arena honors and the 1997 Kicker of the Year.

Success and accolades continued Videtich's way as he earned first team All-Arena honors and Kicker of the Year in 2002 with the New Jersey Gladiators. Additionally, he earned Second Team All-Arena honors in 1998, 2000 and 2003, before arriving in Utah in 2006.

Videtich acts as if there isn't anything special to his success. However, one thing that would better explain it is his love for golf and the mental aspect he takes from it.

"The way a golf swing is (the same) with kicking a football is that it's something that you've practiced," discusses Videtich, "it's almost like you have grooved your body into making that one same motion every time."

With his age creeping up on him - he will turn 37 on November 4 -Videtich knows his career is coming to an end. Thus, he began working in the Blaze front office during the off-season with the hope to one day become the general manager of an AFL team.

"[By] me doing this now makes the transition a little bit easier for when I am done playing, so I am not starting from scratch then," says Videtich.

An idealistic situation for Videtich would be to become a general manager for an expansion AFL team in North Carolina, if that day were to ever come. However, Videtich is happy in Utah with his wife and two kids and would enjoy settling here to continue his work with the Blaze.

"We love it out here. I think the weather is awesome and the pace of life is just right for what I wanted. It's not too hectic, it's not to slow," he said. "I love this organization and I would definitely want to be part of this organization for a long time."

2008 Rampage Youth Football Program presented by Wendy's Concludes

GRAND RAPIDS - In their effort to spread their passion for football to the next generation of young athletes, the Grand Rapids Rampage recently completed the 2008 Rampage Youth Football Program presented by Wendy's. Rampage players and members of the Rage Dance Team visited over 6,000 children across West Michigan, preaching the virtues of hard work, a healthy lifestyle and respect.

Rampage fullbacks Whitney Bell (Sault Ste. Marie, Mich.) and T.J. Watkins (North Augusta, S.C.), and linebackers Michael McFadden (Saginaw, Mich.) and Zach Ville (Miami, Fla.) visited 42 different youth football programs, including making stops in Allegan, Byron Center, Lowell, Grant, Grand Rapids, Newaygo, Rockford, Wayland and Zeeland. The players spoke to the children about their own experiences in professional football and what it took to succeed.

Several Rage Dance Team members also joined the program, meeting with cheerleaders in Big Rapids, Belding, Jenison and Saranac, and teaching the young dancers simple routines. As part of the Rampage Youth Football Program presented by Wendy's, the Rampage also hosted a coaching clinic for the Northern Rocket Football League, invested $4,500 in area youth football programs, and donated 200 youth-sized Spalding AFL footballs to the NRFL, the West Michigan Jr. Football League and the Grand Rapids Youth Athletic Organization.

For information on how your youth football program can be a part of the 2009 Rampage Youth Football Program presented by Wendy's, contact Ruth Lobbestael at (616) 559-1871, ext. 3047, or via e-mail at rlobbestael@rampagefootball.com.

Stamps And Lions Tangle Saturday

The Calgary Stampeders conclude the regular season on Saturday afternoon against the BC Lions at McMahon Stadium and have already assured themselves a first place finish in the CFL's West Division. The game is themed Fan Appreciation Day and Stamps fans will be saluted throughout the afternoon for their continued support of the Red and White.

Following the game, 42 lucky fans will be on the field for the Jersey Off Our Backs promotion. Each Stampeders player who participates in Saturday's game will give his autographed gameworn jersey to a randomly selected Stamps fan.

Calgary has top spot in the West Division locked up and will host either BC or Saskatchewan in the West Final on Nov. 15. The Lions currently are tied with Saskatchewan for second in the West and need to win or have Saskatchewan lose against Toronto on Thursday in order to host the West Semi-Final on Nov. 8.

The Stamps (12-5) have won three in a row and seven of their last eight games while the Lions (11-6) have won two straight and seven of their last eight. The teams face each other for the third time this season and the Stamps won both previous meetings. They won 28-18 at home in the season opener on June 26 and then 36-29 in Vancouver on Aug. 22.

Prior to the game, fans are encouraged to donate new or gently used jackets in support of the Sixth Annual Salvation Army Coat Drive. Volunteers will be positioned at each entrance gate to accept coats or cash donations for the cause. Stamps fans helped to contribute 1,300 jackets and $5,000 in cash last year, bringing the five-year total to 5,420 coats and over $8,500 raised.

Tickets are still available for this game and the West Final and fans are encouraged to call Ticketmaster at 403.777.0000 or go online to Ticketmaster.ca to get their tickets.

Gladiators Add Assistant Line Coach

CLEVELAND - Cleveland Gladiators Head Coach MIKE WILPOLT, who was named 2008 Arena Football League Coach of the Year, has added AFL veteran coach TONY FEDERICO to his staff for 2009, the team announced today. The club also announced that Line Coach LEE JOHNSON will also return for the 2009 season. Federico will serve as the Assistant Line Coach.

Federico comes to the Gladiators having spent the previous six seasons with the AFL's Colorado Crush, where he served as the head Strength and Conditioning coach since 2003. In 2007 and 2008, in addition to his strength and conditioning duties, he also held the post of Defensive Line coach with the Crush.

Federico has also spent time contributing his talents to the strength and conditioning programs of the University of New Mexico, Cleveland Browns, Stanford University, San Jose State University, and University of Southern California. He has served as a Strength Coach at Triple Crown Sports, where he has played a major role in developing an athletic performance center by marketing, writing, and implementing programs to clients of all age and skill levels.

Johnson spent the 2008 season as the Line Coach with the Gladiators. Under his guidance, the offensive line paved the way for fullback MARLION JACKSON to rush for a league-leading 356 yards and tied for the league lead with 23 rushing touchdowns.

Johnson has spent seven seasons in the AFL. He began his AFL coaching career in 2000 as defensive coordinator with the Carolina Cobras. He spent four seasons with the Colorado Crush before joining the Austin Wranglers for the 2007 season.

The Cleveland Gladiators are set to embark on their second season in Cleveland in 2009. Season and group tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by calling the Gladiators at 216.685.9000. Get ready to rock The Q and Roll With the Gladiators!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tony Federico

Assistant Line Coach

Tony Federico enters his first season with the Cleveland Gladiators and seventh in the Arena Football League. Federico will serve as the Assistant Line Coach, responsible for working with both the offensive and defensive lines. He will also assist with the strength and conditioning of the team.

Prior to coming to Cleveland, Federico served as the Strength and Conditioning Coach with the AFL's Colorado Crush since 2003. During the 2007 and '08 seasons, he also served as the Defensive Line Coach for the Crush.

Throughout his career, Federico has held leadership positions in strength and conditioning at several prominent institutions. Most notably, Federico was the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at Colorado State University, where he oversaw the design and administration of the weight and conditioning programs for all CSU varsity athletes and worked with the school's head trainer in the rehabilitation of injured players.

Federico has also spent time contributing his talents to the strength and conditioning programs of the University of New Mexico, Cleveland Browns, Stanford University, San Jose State University, and University of Southern California. He has served as a Strength Coach at Triple Crown Sports, where he has played a major role in developing an athletic performance center by marketing, writing, and implementing programs to clients of all age and skill levels.

Federico earned a bachelor's degree in physical education from the University of Colorado and a master's degree in physical education from USC. He is also a certified instructor of Krav Maga, an Israeli self-defense method.

A 1978 graduate of Northglenn High School in Northglenn, Colo., Federico was named first team All-State as a prep running back, earning a scholarship to the University of Colorado before transferring to Fort Hayes State.

Federico and his wife, Erin, have three sons - Tony, Johnny, and Jeremy.

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LEE JOHNSON

Line Coach

Lee Johnson enters his second season as line coach with the Cleveland Gladiators and eighth in Arena Football. In 2008, Johnson's offensive line paved the way for fullback Marlion Jackson to rush for a league-leading 356 yards and tied for the league lead with 23 rushing touchdowns.

Prior to coming to Cleveland, Johnson spent the 2007 season as the defensive coordinator of the Austin Wranglers, where he worked under current Gladiators offensive coordinator and Wranglers head coach Brian Partlow.

Before Austin, Johnson spent four seasons with the Colorado Crush, serving as defensive coordinator in 2003 and as the special teams and defensive line coach from 2004 through 2006 under Head Coach Mike Dailey.

He began his AFL coaching career in 2000 as the defensive coordinator for the Carolina Cobras.

Before joining the Crush, Johnson served as an intern with the Denver Broncos in 2002 under then defensive coordinator Ray Rhodes and defensive line coach Jacob Burney. He spent the 2001-2002 seasons with the Berlin Thunder of NFL Europe as the defensive line coach, helping guide the team to two World Bowl titles. Johnson began his coaching career as the defensive line coach for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the Canadian Football League in 1997 and was promoted to defensive coordinator the following season.

Prior to coaching, Johnson was a standout linebacker and defensive end at the University of Missouri, where he earned All-Big Eight honors in 1988. He was a member of the Washington Redskins in 1990, when the team won Super Bowl XXV. He also played in the World League of American Football, which became NFL Europe before folding prior to the 2006 season. Johnson finished his career in the AFL, playing three seasons with the Tampa Bay Storm and Charlotte Rage, including an ArenaBowl championship with the Storm in 1993. He also played in Des Moines, Iowa in 1993.

A native of St. Louis, Johnson says his father, a disabled veteran and former boxer whom he calls "Champ," has been the biggest influence on his life. Johnson's younger brother, Mario, played defensive line on the same team at Missouri and went on to play with the New York Jets, New England Patriots and Cleveland Browns. Johnson is married and resides in Winder, Georgia.

New York Dragons dancer Gina turns MTV MADE coach

Uniondale, N.Y. - New York Dragons Dance Team Captain Gina Capelli put her dancing background to the ultimate test this past summer, when she took on the role as an MTV MADE coach on the music network's Emmy award winning series. Gina's MADE episode entitled "MADE: Streamer" will air this Saturday, November 1 at 3pm on MTV.

In the episode, viewers will watch as nerdy Harry-Potter fanatic and native Long Islander Jamie Fitzgerald , who was fed up with being a sheltered book worm with no friends, was MADE into a confident, high kicking, pom pom shaking, social butterfly by becoming a member of her school's dance team "the Streamers" through the help of her MADE coach Gina Capelli and Phyllis Montalvo, the Dragons' Dance Team choreographer.

Gina has been a member of the New York Dragons Dance Team for four seasons and Captain for three. She was an animated dancer for EA Sport's Playstation 2 Arena Football game "Road to Glory". At the end of her 2007 season, she was voted on by Dragon fans to attend Arena Bowl XXI, where she performed for the AFL Dream Team. She has an Associate's Degree in Dance and is trained in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, modern, and gymnastics.

"Working with Jamie was great, I am so proud of what she accomplished," Gina said. "I watched her blossom over the course of our six weeks together and maybe one day she'll be able to join me as a dancer with the New York Dragons!"

"MADE" (http://made.mtv.com) chronicles the challenges and accomplishments that young people face as they attempt a life-changing transformation. To assist on their journey in accomplishing their "makeover", MTV (http://www.mtv.com) provides a coach who doubles as a mentor.

Check out what happens to the young people featured on episodes of "MADE" in LIFE AFTER MADE, as well as view full episodes on made.mtv.com. And just as the show inspires the on-air participants to achieve their goals, fans can launch their own personal development journeys at WannaBeMade.com (http://wannabemade.com), MTV's online community that connects viewers who "wanna be made" with coaches that offer tips and techniques to inspire success. Every journey is chronicled on the viewers' profile page including blog entries and personal progress ratings.

"MADE" (http://made.mtv.com) was created and is executive produced by Bob Kusbit and Francis Lyons for One Louder Productions. Dave Sirulnick, Tony DiBari are executive producers for MTV.

Blue Bombers Offer Fund-Raising Opportunity To Local Groups

WINNIPEG, MB -The Winnipeg Football Club is offering an opportunity for groups aged 14-and-over to have a chance to fundraise for the last two home games of 2008.

The Blue Bombers are looking to recruit teams to potentially be involved with snow removal inside Canad Inns Stadium. The upcoming two home contests are scheduled for November 1, and the CFL East Semi-Final on November 8, 2008.

Because of the unpredictable nature of the weather in Winnipeg, there is a chance of snowfall prior to either of the two remaining games. This is why the football club is extending the opportunity to organizations who are interested in raising money.

The donations will be structured as $8.50 per hour, per person. The football club will distribute shovels upon arrival.

This opportunity is dependent on the weather conditions over the next two weeks. If snowfall occurs prior to the Nov. 1 regular season finale or Nov. 8 CFL East Semi-Final, crews would be required at 6 a.m. that morning.

Organizations interested in using this potential opportunity for fundraising purposes can contact Kevin Austin at 204-784-7417 or kaustin@bluebombers.com

Reading Express Announces Second Open Combine Try-Out

The Reading Express and Grand Slam Sports Complex have announced today that the next Open Try-Out for The Express will be Saturday Night November 29th.

Kicker Registration - 7:15 PM

Combine Player Registration - 7:30-8:30 PM

Kickers on the field from 7:30-8:30 - time may be reduced depending on kicker turn out

Combine Players on the field at 8:30 PM - 11 PM

The fee for Kickers is $40 and the fee for the Combine Players is $50. There is NO fee if you attended the first try-out in October.

Please check out our website for further details or call the Express Office at 610-372-7277 or e-mail Head Coach/General Manager Bernie Nowotarski at bnowotarski@expressindoorfootball.com

Stamps, Salvation Army Hold Coat Drive

The Calgary Stampeders are asking fans to help Calgarians in need at the regular-season finale Nov. 1, against the B.C. Lions.

The Calgary Stampeders will team up with the Salvation Army for the sixth annual coat drive to help collect new or gently used coats or cash donations prior to kickoff of Saturday's game. Salvation Army volunteers will be at each entrance gate of McMahon Stadium to collect the donations.

"This is something that helps us give back and reminds you that there are a lot of people in need in Calgary," said Jeremaine Copeland, Stampeders receiver. "I love it. I look forward to working with the Salvation Army on this drive every year."

In 2007, the Calgary Stampeders and their fans were able to collect 1,300 jackets and $5,000 in cash, bringing the five-year total to 5,420 coats and over $8,500 raised. The coats will be distributed to those in need on Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2008, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Salvation Army Centre of Hope - 420 9 Ave. S.E.

The next Stampeders home game is Saturday, Nov. 1 against the B.C. Lions. Kickoff is 3 p.m. and fans are encouraged to get their tickets through Ticketmaster at 403.777.0000 or by visiting Ticketmaster.ca.

Desperados To Hold Open Tryouts For 2009 Team

In a continuing effort to upgrade their talent level, the Dallas Desperados Arena Football team will hold open tryouts on Saturday, November 1st at Texas Stadium. Attending the Open Tryout will also be representatives from other Arena Football Organizations interested in adding talent to their football teams.

Registration for the November 1st open tryouts is broken down by position. Quarterbacks, wide receivers and defensive backs will begin registering at 7:00 a.m. with workouts starting at 8:00 a.m. Offensive and defensive linemen, fullbacks and linebackers will register at 9:00 a.m. and test at 12:00 p.m., while kickers register at 2:00 p.m. All players will be evaluated in the 40-yard dash, 20-yard shuttle and standing broad jump. Selected players who exceed the Desperados testing standards will be invited to participate in an elite workout later in the day, where players will be evaluated in drills specific to the game of Arena Football.

The Desperados have signed several players through the open tryout forum in the past. Last year two players were invited to training camp, Brett Rayl and Andre Burns. After impressing coaches during the 2006 tryouts, Anthony Armstrong played for the Desperados for the past two seasons. Armstrong is currently playing for the Miami Dolphins on their practice squad. In 2004, defensive specialist Michael Hawkins played in five games for the Desperados after working out for the team in a similar fashion. Hawkins was later drafted in the fifth round of the 2005 NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers.

For more information on the Dallas Desperados, visit the team's official website www.dallasdesperados.com.

REGISTRATION:

Participants may register on site the morning of open tryout for a registration fee of $85. All registered participants will receive two platinum level seats to the Desperados home opener ($37 value per ticket) and an official Desperados Tryout t-shirt.

REQUIREMENTS:

All participants will need to provide their own attire for the non-padded workouts. Participants will be given a numbered shirt to wear during testing, but must provide their own shoes (grass cleats or turf shoes - no track spikes allowed), shorts or tights and accessories. Workouts will take place on Texas Stadium's Realgrass™ Synthetic Playing Surface. Desperados are not responsible for travel or lodging expenses.

WHERE:

Texas Stadium - On the Field

2401 E. Airport Freeway, Irving, Texas 75062

WHEN:

SATURDAY, November 1st (Tryout times are broken down by position)

Positions Registration Time Workout Time

QB, WR, DB 7:00 a.m. 8:00 a.m.

OL, DL, FB, LB 9:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.

K 2:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m. (approx.)

Tiger-Cats 2008 Canadian Football League Player Award Nominees

Hamilton, Ontario - Earlier today, the Canadian Football League announced the nominees for the 2008 CFL Most Outstanding Player Awards. The Hamilton Tiger-Cats' nominees include the following players:

CHRIS THOMPSON / Defensive Back

Most Outstanding Player and Most Outstanding Defensive Player

In his first season in Black and Gold, Thompson is currently tied for the CFL lead with nine interceptions through 17 games. The Week 7 CFL Defensive Player of the Week has also recorded 60 defensive tackles, two special teams tackles, one fumble recovery and nine pass knockdowns. This is the first time Thompson has been nominated for a CFL Player award.

RAY MARIUZ / Linebacker

Most Outstanding Canadian

Mariuz has made 64 defensive tackles, two quarterback sacks, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, one pass knockdown and leads the Ticats with 14 special teams tackles. This is Mariuz's first nomination for the Most Outstanding Canadian Award.

MARWAN HAGE / Centre

Most Outstanding Lineman

As the centre of the offensive line, Marwan Hage plays a pivotal role in the success of the Ticats offence. The fifth-year Tiger-Cat has helped power the league's top rushing attack as the Black and Gold lead the CFL in six rushing categories, including a 6.5 yards per carry average. This is Hage's second consecutive nomination for the Ticats Most Outstanding Lineman Award.

NICK SETTA / Kicker/Punter

Most Outstanding Special Teams Player

Nick Setta has been the CFL's most consistent punter through Week 18, averaging a league-leading 47.7 yards per punt this season.

Setta has also made his mark in the record book. During the Ticats Week 4 game in Calgary, Setta tied the Ticats record he set last season with a 97-yard punt and would go on to establish the new Canadian Football League single-game punting average record with a mark of 64.7 yards per kick, eclipsing the old record set by former Ticats kicker Paul Osbaldiston in 2002.

Setta has connected on 26 of 33 field goal attempts, has maintained a 60.8 yard kickoff average and is also a perfect 2-for-2 on fake punt attempts, completing passes of 12 and 21 yards in consecutive games.

This is Setta's second consecutive nomination for the Ticats Most Outstanding Special Teams Player.

PRECHAE RODRIGUEZ

Most Outstanding Rookie

In 13 games this season, first-year wide receiver Prechae Rodriguez has posted 64 receptions for 970 yards and seven touchdowns. Rodriguez's finest performance of the season thus far came against Montreal in Week 15, when he tied Jimmy Edwards' 32-year-old single-game reception record of 12, while also adding 198 receiving yards and three touchdowns.

Team Nominees Announced for 2008 Gibson's Finest CFL Player Awards

Toronto, ON (October 28, 2008) -The Canadian Football League (CFL) announced today the team nominees for the 2008 Gibson's Finest CFL Player Awards. The players were selected by voting members of the Football Reporters of Canada (FRC) and the CFL head coaches.

"Canadians have rallied to our league this year, and the exciting play of these talented individuals is one of the big reasons why," said CFL Commissioner Mark Cohon.

"On behalf of our Board of Governors, our teams and our fans from across the country, we congratulate the nominees on this honour, and wish them our best as the divisional nominees, and league-wide winners, are named in the weeks ahead."

In this first ballot, FRC representatives from each CFL city plus the respective head coach submitted votes for the six categories. Voters were asked to select players from their local CFL club who through on-field performance excellence, best represent the awards' title - Outstanding Player, Outstanding Canadian Player, Outstanding Defensive Player, Outstanding Offensive Lineman, Outstanding Rookie, and Outstanding Special Teams Player.

The East and West nominees for the 2008 Gibson's Finest CFL Player Awards will be announced on Tuesday, November 4.

The league-wide winners will be announced during Grey Cup week at the Gibson's Finest CFL Player Awards on Thursday, November 20 at the Casino de Montrйal.

Below are the first ballot nominee results:

* - Indicates a unanimous selection

EAST DIVISION

MONTREAL ALOUETTES

PLAYER CANADIAN DEFENSIVE O-LINEMAN ROOKIE SPECIAL TEAMS

Anthony Calvillo* (QB) Ben

Cahoon (SB) Keron Williams* (DT) Scott

Flory* (G) Larry

Taylor (KR) Larry

Taylor (KR)

TORONTO ARGONAUTS

PLAYER CANADIAN DEFENSIVE O-LINEMAN ROOKIE SPECIAL TEAMS

Dominique Dorsey* (KR/RB) Andre

Talbot (SB) Willie

Pile (LB) Taylor Robertson

(G) Kenny Heatly (DB) Dominique Dorsey*

(KR/RB)

HAMILTON TIGER-CATS

PLAYER CANADIAN DEFENSIVE O-LINEMAN ROOKIE SPECIAL TEAMS

Chris Thompson (DB) Ray Mariuz (LB) Chris Thompson (DB) Marwan

Hage (C) Prechae Rodriguez* (WR) Nick

Setta* (K/P)

WINNIPEG BLUE BOMBERS

PLAYER CANADIAN DEFENSIVE O-LINEMAN ROOKIE SPECIAL TEAMS

Doug

Brown (DT) Doug

Brown* (DT) Doug

Brown (DT) Dan

Goodspeed (T) Brendon LaBatte* (G) Graeme

Bell (RB)

WEST DIVISION

SASKATCHEWAN ROUGHRIDERS

PLAYER CANADIAN DEFENSIVE O-LINEMAN ROOKIE SPECIAL TEAMS

Wes

Cates (RB) Gene Makowsky (T) Maurice

Lloyd (LB) Gene Makowsky* (T) Weston Dressler*

(SB) Luca

Congi (K)

CALGARY STAMPEDERS

PLAYER CANADIAN DEFENSIVE O-LINEMAN ROOKIE SPECIAL TEAMS

Henry

Burris* (QB) Mike

Labinjo (DE) Shannon

James* (LB) Rob

Lazeo (OL) Dimitri Tsoumpas (G) Sandro DeAngelis* (K)

EDMONTON ESKIMOS

PLAYER CANADIAN DEFENSIVE O-LINEMAN ROOKIE SPECIAL TEAMS

Ricky

Ray* (QB) Kamau

Peterson* (WR) Jason

Goss (DB) John Comiskey (G) Tristan Jackson* (KR/DB) Tristan

Jackson (KR/DB)

B.C. LIONS

PLAYER CANADIAN DEFENSIVE O-LINEMAN ROOKIE SPECIAL TEAMS

Cameron Wake* (DE) Paris Jackson* (SB) Cameron Wake* (DE) Jason Jimenez (OT) Stefan Logan* (RB) Ian

Smart (RB)

Outstanding Lions nominated for 2008 player awards

The local chapter of the Football Reporters of Canada has named its BC Lions nominees for the Gibson's Finest CFL Player Awards.

Cam Wake was a unanimous selection as the club's Outstanding Player and Outstanding Defensive Player. In just his second season, Wake has terrorized opposing defenses to the tune of 20 sacks, 60 defensive tackles and a blocked field goal. The nomination comes on the heels of Wake's winning both the Outstanding Defensive Player and Outstanding Rookie award in 2007.

Receiver Paris Jackson earns the unanimous selection as the Lions' Outstanding Canadian with his 73 receptions for 1,149 yards and seven TD's. The slick sixth-year wide out who was named Canadian of the Week three times during the 2008 campaign as well as Canadian of the Month in July has made a seamless transition to slot back in recent weeks after 2007 Outstanding Canadian Jason Clermont went down with a knee injury.

Jason Jimenez gets his first nomination as the Lions' Outstanding Lineman after anchoring the line from his right tackle position. Jimenez in tandem with two-time Outstanding Lineman Rob Murphy head up the CFL's most intimidating offensive line and have powered the Lions to more than 900 yards of offence and 92 points in the last two games.

Shifty running back Stefan Logan is a unanimous choice as the club's Outstanding Rookie after racking up 751 yards on 106 carries. The five-foot, seven-inch ball of speed splashed onto the CFL scene in Week 3 with an 18-carry, 143-yard performance that made him an instant team and fan favourite. The first-year Leo has a lofty 7.1-yard per carry average and has also returned nine kickoffs for 266 yards (29.6 avg).

Ian Smart takes home his second nomination for Outstanding Special Teams Player in as many years. Currently leading the CFL in kickoff return yardage (66, 1,646) and sitting third in punt returns (78, 731) Smart has consistently provided the Lions offence with great field position. Now in his third season, Smart was named CFL Special Teams Player of the Week after his July 25th performance which included a dazzling 91 yard kickoff return for a TD versus Montreal.

The BC Lions play their final regular season game on the road this Saturday, November 2 at 1:00 pm (PT) versus the Calgary Stampeders. For more information on the BC Lions Football Club, please visit our web site at www.bclions.com.

Desperados Shift To Southern Division For 2009 Season

DALLAS, Texas - The Dallas Desperados will join the AFL's Southern Division for the 2009 season as part of the league's new realignment, leaving the Eastern Division where the team won two division championships in back-to-back seasons (2006-07) to join a Southern Division that will pit them against new divisional foes in the Georgia Force, Orlando Predators and Tampa Bay Storm.

"It's two difficult divisions, comparing what we've played in and what we're now going to," said Desperados Head Coach Will McClay. "We're used to being in a division with Philadelphia, Columbus, Cleveland and New York in the Eastern Division, and now we go to another tough division in the Southern Division that features perennial ArenaBowl teams with Tampa Bay, Orlando and Georgia. So the competition only gets fiercer."

Dallas has moved divisions four times since its inception into the league in 2002 as a member of the West Division while also playing in the Central (2003) and Eastern Divisions (2004-08). The Desperados conclude their record in the Eastern Division with a mark of 24-10 - the best divisional record of any Eastern Division team during that five year span - and were the Eastern Division champions during the 2006 and 2007 seasons. The Desperados best season in the Eastern Division came in 2007 when the team set a league record with a 15-1 regular season mark including a perfect 6-0 record in the Eastern Division.

Burn Announce Hanigan Hotshots Auditions

BOISE, Idaho - The arenafootball2's Boise Burn announced today that open auditions for the 2009 Hanigan Hotshots dance team will be held on Sunday, Nov. 2, from 3:30-8:00 pm in the Grove Hotel Ballroom in downtown Boise. All candidates must be 18 years old by March 1, 2009. A pre-audition workshop is available on Wednesday, Oct. 29. Details and more information can be found at www.boiseburn.com.

The Burn also announced today that Jaime Moore will return for her third season as the Director and Choreographer for the Boise Burn dance team, the Hanigan Hotshots.

The Boise Burn will begin its third season of play at Qwest Arena in 2009. A schedule and more information about the upcoming season will be coming soon. Season tickets, with a variety of pricing options, are currently being offered by calling (208) 383-0080.

Roughriders prepare for possible home playoff game

The Saskatchewan Roughriders announced playoff tickets are now available in the event that the club hosts the West Semi-Final on November 8th. The game is scheduled to start at 3:30 pm (Sask. time).

Starting immediately, season ticket holders will be given the opportunity to purchase their seats at Labour Day pricing.

Flex pack holders are able to purchase one available seat anywhere in the stadium for every increment of ten vouchers purchased this season (example 15 vouchers will only get one ticket).

Season ticket/flex pack holders will have until October 30th to purchase their seats. The remainder of the playoff tickets will go on sale to the general public on November 3rd (limit four per person).

Anyone who pre-purchased playoff tickets as part of their season ticket package can pick them up at the Roughrider ticket office.

Ticket office hours for this week will be 8:30 am to 5:30 pm from Monday to Friday and 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on Saturday.

AFL announces divisional alignment for 2009

NEW YORK - The Arena Football League has realigned its divisions, placing the two-time (2006-07) Eastern Division Champion Dallas Desperados in the Southern Division. The Desperados spent the previous five seasons in the National Conference's Eastern Division after spending their first two seasons in the American Conference.

2009 AFL DIVISIONAL ALIGNMENT

AMERICAN CONFERENCE NATIONAL CONFERENCE

WESTERN CENTRAL EASTERN SOUTHERN

Arizona Rattlers Chicago Rush Cleveland Gladiators Dallas Desperados

Los Angeles Avengers Colorado Crush Columbus Destroyers Georgia Force

San Jose SaberCats Grand Rapids Rampage New York Dragons Orlando Predators

Utah Blaze Kansas City Brigade Philadelphia Soul Tampa Bay Storm

Storm Welcomes Desperados to South

NEW YORK - The Arena Football League has realigned its divisions, placing the two-time (2006-07) Eastern Division Champion Dallas Desperados in the Southern Division. The Desperados spent the previous five seasons in the National Conference's Eastern Division after spending their first two seasons in the American Conference.

"The South was already a tough division and it just got tougher," said head coach and general manager Tim Marcum. "To win this division you'll have to play some good football."

Among the perennial playoff contenders in the Southern Division Tampa Bay is the last one to win an ArenaBowl Championship (2003). Over that past five seasons the these four teams have a combined win percentage of .605, 15 playoff appearances, six division titles and only three seasons in which a member team finished under .500.

2009 AFL DIVISIONAL ALIGNMENT

AMERICAN CONFERENCE NATIONAL CONFERENCE

WESTERN CENTRAL EASTERN SOUTHERN

Arizona Rattlers Chicago Rush Cleveland Gladiators Dallas Desperados

Los Angeles Avengers Colorado Crush Columbus Destroyers Georgia Force

San Jose SaberCats Grand Rapids Rampage New York Dragons Orlando Predators

Utah Blaze Kansas City Brigade Philadelphia Soul Tampa Bay Storm

Elfrid Payton Signs One-Day Contract

Montreal, Oct. 25, 2008 - Montreal Alouettes' Vice President and General Manager Jim Popp is pleased to announce that rush end Elfrid Payton has signed a one-day contract to retire as an Alouette.

Payton played 14 seasons in the CFL, including four as an Alouette. In 205 career regular season games, he made a total of 483 tackles, 70 tackles for a loss and 154 sacks, finishing just three short of Grover Covington's league record of 157. He is also the Alouettes' all-time leader with 52 quarterback sacks.

Nicknamed "SWAC," Payton began his career in 1991 with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, the same team with which he ended his playing days in 2004. In addition to Montreal and Winnipeg, he played for Shreveport, Baltimore, Toronto and Edmonton. He won the Grey Cup twice, in 1993 with the Blue Bombers and in 1995 with the Stallions. He totalled 16 tackles and two quarterback sacks in four Grey Cup appearances.

The Alouettes will host the Winnipeg Blue Bombers this Sunday at 1 p.m. at Percival Molson Stadium (RDS, TSN, CKAC SPORTS, CJAD 800, 98,5 FM).

Lions and Argonauts ready to battle Saturday night

The BC Lions (10-6) host the Toronto Argonauts (4-12) in a late season match-up that still has plenty of post season implications as the Lions look to secure a home playoff berth and keep their hopes of a regular season division crown alive.

The Leos come into Saturday's game following an important 43-28 series-clinching victory over the Edmonton Eskimos last Friday. The club has now won six of its last seven games and holds the all-important tie-breaking advantage over division rivals Edmonton and Saskatchewan. Toronto comes into Saturday's game traveling through three time zones and in the midst of a seven-game losing skid. Their most recent setback came at the hands of Montreal last Saturday by a 43-34 margin.

The Leos and Boatmen met earlier in the month with BC holding on for a hard-fought 24-20 win on October 3rd and have not dropped a game to the Double Blue since 2004.

GM and head coach Wally Buono will face his longtime on-field foe Don Mathews as the two bench bosses wrestle for the all-time coaching win title. Buono currently sits second to the 'The Don' with 226 career wins, but has narrowed the gap to just five victories this season.

On offence, quarterback Buck Pierce may look back on October 17, 2008 as the date he established himself as one of the league's bright stars after completing 25 of 40 passes for 378 yards and three-touchdowns. The performance came in the face of a strong Eskimo pass rush not to mention two unnecessary roughness calls on Pierce's former college teammate at New Mexico State, Siddeeq Shabazz. The battered and bruised Lions pivot played the entire second half on a tender ankle, but stood tall in rallying the team to three fourth-quarter scoring drives including two TD passes to Geroy Simon. Look for Pierce to start versus the Argos on Friday as the offence looks to build on its 518-yard showing last week.

Up front, the Lions managed to control the line of scrimmage as well as their emotions going into a testy rematch versus Edmonton. The result was a shutout in the sack department after the Eskimos put four on the board the week previous as well as a 102-yard rushing performance by the resurgent Charles Roberts. A strong ground game and ample time for Buck Pierce to deliver the ball resulted in the team rolling up 33 first downs and maintaining a 12-minute advantage in time of possession. Toronto has notched 27 sacks on the year to rank sixth and has surrendered 2,594 yards on the ground to rank eighth.

At receiver, Geroy Simon bounced back from a one-catch, six-yard performance two weeks ago to rack up 126 yards and two TD's on seven receptions last Friday. Simon currently sits second in receiving yards (72, 1,286) trailing only Calgary's Ken-Yon Rambo (92, 1,314). Paris Jackson enjoyed a spectacular night of his own, hauling in eight receptions for 127 yards as well as a slick 25-yard TD in the first quarter. The lofty total put Jackson over the 1,000-yard mark for the first time in his career. Rookie Ryan Grice-Mullen made his pro debut with a three-catch, 52 yard night including a 27-yard reception in the fourth quarter. Running back Charles Roberts also chipped in with 43 yards on three catches.

On defence, the Lions needed and received some help from the offence on the night but also managed some big plays of their own including three turnovers in the win over Edmonton. In what seems like a 'good news, bad news' scenario, the defence limited the Eskimos to just eight offensive plays in the first quarter but one of those plays was a 47-yard passing play to the Esks' Kelly Campbell. Through two quarters, Edmonton quarterback Ricky Ray had 214 passing yards with 129 of those yards coming on just three plays. In total, the Lions gave up 367 passing yards on the night while limiting the Eskimo running game to just 32 yards. Trailing 21-17 at halftime, however, the Leos would give up just a single TD in the second half as well as forcing three fumbles (including a blocked field goal) and three punts.

Up front, the defence pushed their league-leading sack total to 58 with Otis Floyd and Ricky Foley getting to Ray. Foley also forced a Ray fumble on his sack which was recovered by teammate Cam Wake. Despite being held without a sack on the night, Wake remained force throughout the game and capped it off with a monstrous field goal block which preserved the 15 point margin of victory for the Lions and the season series versus Edmonton. Fellow lineman Aaron Hunt also had a fumble recovery in the fourth quarter after Ray and running back A.J. Harris got their signals crossed.

When the Eskimos did run it was for limited gains as the D-line and linebacker corps surrendered a total of just 32 yards on the ground. Otis Floyd notched two defensive tackles and a knockdown in addition to his fourth sack of the season while Javy Glatt added four tackles to his total giving him 77 on the year - good enough for fourth overall in the CFL.

In the secondary, the Lions will look for improvement as the post season approaches and big plays can quickly become game breakers. Facing the likes of Ricky Ray with man coverage for a fair chunk of the game is a task not easily executed, especially given Commonwealth Stadium's slippery surface; but holding the Eskimo offence to a single TD in the second half last week is worth noting. Despite Ray's totals over two games, the Lions remain the third-ranked defence versus the pass (4,402, 275.1) and have plenty of playmakers of their own that can turn a game around. They will face a Toronto offence that had some measurable success versus Montreal as Kerry Joseph completed 22 passes for 400 yards and three TD's with no interceptions.

On special teams, kicker Paul McCallum likely had as much to do with the Lions coming up with enough points to take the season series with the Esks. His decision to run for a first down late in the fourth quarter not only kept the Eskimo offence on the bench but helped the Lions to another touchdown. McCallum was also good on all three of his field goal attempts and now sits third overall with 166 points. Return man Ian Smart had a nifty 32-yards dash to open the game and now sits just 94 yards back of Eric Blount's 1,695 return yards mark set in 1998.

The Lions have placed themselves in position to take a run at first place, however, they will need to focus their efforts versus an Argonaut club playing for jobs in 2009 and hope to get some help from the Hamilton Tiger-Cats as they take on the Stamps.

For more information on the BC Lions Football Club please visit our website at bclions.com.

The BC Lions are dedicated to serving our fans and community.

Wal-Mart, Old Dutch, Blue Bombers And Never Alone Foundation Team Up

WINNIPEG, MB - Fans of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers will be able to meet some of their favourite players over the next week in Wal-Mart stores throughout Manitoba, thanks to an initiative with Wal-Mart, Old Dutch, the football club and the Never Alone Foundation to fight against cancer through research, education and patient support services.

Old Dutch Foods has partnered with Wal-Mart to donate a portion of every Old Dutch product sold in Wal-Mart stores across the province to the Never Alone Foundation. The Winnipeg Football Club will have its players appearing at five different Manitoba locations beginning October 24 to sign autographs and meet with fans in support of the initiative.

"The leadership and sense of community that both Wal-Mart and Old Dutch have displayed to support the Never Alone Foundation and the fight against cancer is quite significant," said Lyle Bauer, founder of the Never Alone Foundation and president/CEO of the Winnipeg Football Club. "All of us who have battled this disease truly appreciate their commitment."

Blue Bombers players will be at two different locations this evening. Starting quarterback Kevin Glenn will join rookie-of-the-year candidate Brendon LaBatte at the Wal-Mart location in St. Vital between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Defensive tackle Jon Oosterhuis, meanwhile, will be visiting the Wal-Mart store in Selkirk from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

On Saturday, October 25, offensive lineman Ibrahim Khan and linebacker Marcus Winn will be present at the McPhillips Wal-Mart location from 10 a.m. to noon. Oosterhuis will be in Brandon from 10 a.m. to noon on Oct. 25 and from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. in Portage La Prairie.

The tour wraps up on October 30 when LaBatte and fellow offensive lineman Dan Goodspeed will be on hand at the Wal-Mart in Transcona from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The Winnipeg Football Club will be hosting the CFL East Semi-Final to open the Grey Cup Playoffs on Saturday, November 8 (noon central time) at Canad Inns Stadium. Tickets are still available to the post-season cross-over game by logging on to http://www.ticketmaster.ca or calling 204-780-3333.

More Than 55,000 Tickets Sold For The Grey Cup Game In Montreal

Montreal, Oct. 24, 2008 - Just 30 days away from the 96th Grey Cup in Montreal, the organizing committee is pleased to announce that more than 55,000 tickets have been sold.

Several excellent tickets are still available, however, notably in the silver category.

The committee has planned an exciting week of activities leading up to the game, centred on the Grey Cup Village, a Montreal original, first created for Grey Cup 2001.

The Village will be located at Place du Canada, located between Peel, Renй-Lйvesque, de la Cathйdrale and de la Gauchetiиre streets. Fans will notice the countdown clocks surrounding the Village site are now down to just 30 days!

Brian Brents Named El Paso Head Coach

EL PASO, TX. : The El Paso Indoor Football League organization announced on Thursday, October 23rd, 2008 from the El Paso County Coliseum that Brian Brents has been named the head coach for the 2009 season. Coach Brents is a native of Crane, Texas and along with his wife Rachel, has a 5 month old son named Tyson Matthew. Brian played wide receiver for Abilene Christian University, and completed his degree at the University of Texas of the Permian Basin.

"I'm excited to be taking over as head coach for the El Paso team. My family and I are happy to be a part of the El Paso community and I can't wait to get to work on building a successful team that hopefully will be around for some time as a member of the Indoor Football League." stated Head Coach Brian Brents.

Brents helped build the Odessa Roughnecks, of the now Indoor Football League, into a playoff caliber team in 2004. He returned to Odessa in 2005 as the offensive coordinator and was a major part of a Roughnecks team that finished the regular season undefeated, and complete an overall record of 16-1. In 2006, Brents contributed in turning around the Lakeland Thunderbolts from a 6-9 squad to a 13-3 divisional championship team.

"Brian is a very experienced coach of the indoor football game, and success has followed him with every team he has worked with during his coaching career. We have no doubt that he is going to do a great job with the El Paso organization." stated Allegiance Pro Sports President and El Paso Team Owner, Brandon Smith.

In his first season with the Mississippi MudCats, Coach Brents and his staff led the MudCats to a 12-4 record, and a appearance in the AIFA South Conference Championship game. Brents and his staff capped off a great 2007 season by being selected to coach the AIFA South All-Star Team. Brents returned to the MudCats in 2008 and once again had a tremendous season, registering a 12-1 record. As head coach, Brents has compiled a 24-5 combined overall record. He has coached 24 All-Conference players and 6 All-Americans. He has had 4 players move on to the CFL, and 6 players to the AFL during his esteemed coaching career.

Shock anchor offensive line with Lorenzo Breland

Spokane, WA: The Spokane Shock announced today that OL Lorenzo Breland has been added to their 2009 roster.

Breland finished his collegiate career at Jackson State in 2007 and is expected to compete for the starting center position vacated by Center Rico Ochoa, who retired last season.

Breland, 6-1 320, was selected to the 2007 1st Team All-Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) as the anchor in an offensive line that gave up only 20 sacks all season (ranked 3rd in the SWAC).

"We have a lot of respect for the SWAC conference and the players that they produce. To be named 1st team All-SWAC means that people down there thought highly of him as well," Head Coach Adam Shackleford said. "We are in a situation where there is going to be a changing of the guard at the Center spot and we really feel like he will be able to compete for the position and help lead this team."

Breland is the 14th addition to the Shock's 2009 roster.

Season ticket reservations for the 2009 season are now being accepted and can be made by calling (509)242-7462.

Yard Dawgz Assigned Highly Touted QB

OKLAHOMA CITY - The Oklahoma City Yard Dawgz and Head Coach Sparky McEwen continue to strengthen the roster as they prepare for the 2009 season. The most recent assignments include highly touted QB Robert Kent, FB/LB Freddie Rollins, and DB Andre Burns.

Kent (6'5, 220), a three-year af2 veteran, led the 2008 Lubbock Renegades to a 9-7 regular season record and the franchise's first post-season appearance. Kent was one of the most consistent quarterbacks in the league completing 274-of-505 passes for 4,100 yards and only 8 interceptions. He was also the team's second leading rusher with 189 yards and 16 TDs.

"Kent has proven that not only can he put up big numbers statistically, but he can also lead an organization to the playoffs," said McEwen. "His signing gives Oklahoma City an AFL caliber quarterback and I look forward to continuing his development and growth as a young quarterback."

Kent was in the top 10 in all major passing categories including passing yards per completion (1st; 15.0 yards/completion), passing yards (3rd; 4,100 yards), passing TDs (4th; 86 TDs), and total offense (5th; 268.1 yards/game). He was named the af2's Schutt Offensive Player of the Week in the Renegades Week 9 win over the Texas Copperheads.

"I'm very excited to work with Coach McEwen next season," commented Kent. "Oklahoma City is on its way up and finished strong in 2009. I know the fans, players, and coaching staff are ready for the season and are ready to win."

In his career, Kent has thrown for 9,458 yards and 196 TDs for the Alabama Steeldogs and Lubbock Renegades.

A four-year starter at Jackson State, Kent set school records for pass attempts (825), completions (1,539), passing yards (11,797) and passing TDs (104). Kent also attended training camp with the NFL's Tennessee Titans in 2004.

Rollins (6'1, 275) exploded onto the scene in 2008, where he played in 9 games for the Yard Dawgz and became the team all-time leader for rushing yards (227) and TDs (14). Rollins ended the 2008 season as the af2's 3rd leading rusher, averaging 25.2 rushing yards per game. He played for Mary-Hardin Baylor where he was a three time All-Conference running back.

Burns (6'0, 190) played in 15 games for the Yard Dawgz last season and was the team's leading defender with 63 solo and 26 assisted tackles (76.0 total). He also had 2.5 tackles for a loss, 5 interceptions for 71 yards, 14 pass breakups, 2 fumble recoveries and 1 forced fumble. Burns returned 11 kicks for 137 yards. In 2007, Burns played for the af2's Laredo Lobos and Rio Grande Valley Dorados where he collected 40 solo and 11 assisted tackles, 3 forced fumbles, 1 sack, 7 pass breakups, and 2 interceptions.

Burns was previously on the training camp roster for the AFL's Dallas Desperados, New York Dragons, and Colorado Crush. During his senior year at Missouri Western State, Burns was on the All-MIAA defensive 1st Team and the All-Southwest Region 3rd Team.

Season tickets are now available and start at only $56! Call 405-228-3294 or visit www.okcyarddawgz.com for more information.

World Champion Philadelphia Soul Rooting For Phillies In World Series

Philadelphia, PA (October 22, 2008) - This past July, the Philadelphia Soul brought to Philadelphia something the city has been thirsting for -- a World Championship. On the brink of the Phillies beginning the World Series tonight against the Tampa Bay Rays, the Soul couldn't be more excited to root for another team to bring home a championship to the City of Brotherly Love.

Many Soul players are rooting on their fellow Philadelphia team. "Even though I'm not from this area, after playing for the Soul I feel like a part of the Philadelphia family," DB Rob Keefe says. "I want to see the Phillies win the World Series just to see the faces of the rest of the Phillies fans as they watch another parade go through the city this year."

OL Phil Bogle shares the same sentiment as Keefe. "It's a great accomplishment," he said when asked about his thoughts on the Phillies. "It's another possibility of a championship in Philly. I've been embraced by Philadelphia and I've embraced Philadelphia right back."

But who do they think will end up on top at the end of the World Series? "I think the Phillies are hot right now, although Tampa is playing well. The way that guys like Shane Victorino are playing and the way pitching is with guys like Cole Hamels, it's great. The Phillies will pull it out," Bogle predicts.

Soul Head Coach Bret Munsey has started following the Phillies over the past three years while he's been with the Soul and has enjoyed watching them grow. "Manager Charlie Manuel and the Phillies organization have come a long way getting great character people both on and off the field. It would be another great achievement for the great fans of Philadelphia."

Though there's a debate on whether the Soul really broke the "curse" in Philadelphia, it's evident that winning ways are going to continue on with the City of Brotherly Love and the Soul are rooting for the Phillies the whole way.

Go Phillies!

The Soul celebrated their fifth anniversary this season with a 59-56 win over the San Jose SaberCats in Virgin Mobile ArenaBowl XXII. The Soul drew a total of 131,817 fans this season, their largest number since their inaugural season of 2004. The Soul sold out four games in the 2008 season and averaged 16,477 fans per game. Season tickets for the 2009 campaign are currently on sale starting at just $59. Call 888-PHIL-AFL to order your tickets and get more information on the defending ArenaBowl Champion Philadelphia Soul.

Since their inception, the Soul have drawn a total of 646,043 fans, the most in the AFL over that time frame. Following the 2007 season, the Soul were recognized with the Commissioner's Award as the Organization of the Year and were an honorable mention for the PRISM Award in the category of fan appreciation.