NFL TODAY

Blues Announce Extended Training Camp in Peoria

Monday Night Football Comes to the ‘Ville

Blizzard Moves Into First Place

Pirates Corralled By Horsemen

PEORIA, IL - (June 28, 2008) The Peoria Pirates caught a little bit of luck this weekend, but it was certainly not from their own doing. Despite losing 61-33 in front of 3,884 at Carver Arena against Lexington, the Pirates remain mathematically alive in the playoff race because of a Louisville loss on Friday night.

The rough game started early for the Pirates when quarterback Donald Carrie, making his first career af2 start, was stripped of the football by Lexington's Jamal Naji, losing possession a little over three minutes into opening quarter. The Pirate turnover would lead to a two-play drive worth 34 yards, ending in a 28-yard pass to Lexington's receiver John Cooper to put the visitors up 7-0. Less than three minutes later, Naji would be a factor again, this time sacking Carrie in the Peoria endzone, increasing the team's lead to nine. Lexington would continue fighting in the closing minutes of the first quarter, driving to the Peoria four yard line, but turning the ball over on downs with a minute remaining.

The Lexington turnover would set up Peoria's first real drive of the game, starting on the Pirate four yard line. Phillip Brock opened up the run with a 32-yard reception from Carrie to land them in the red zone, then closed it out himself on the next play with a 9-yard run for the TD. The following point-after was blocked to keep the Lexington lead to only three. Despite the Pirate score, Lexington continued their dominance over four minutes later, this time with Chad Spencer on the receiving end of a touchdown pass. Phillip Brock would score again with over a minute remaining in the half, hauling in a 31-yard pass to put the Pirates back within two. An 11-yard pass to Harry Lewis, however, would put Lexington in a 21-13 lead to end the half.

With the exception of Phillip Brock, the second half would be anything but pleasant for Peoria. After Lexington scored two more times within the first three minutes of the half, Brock pulled in two touchdown passes 35 and 12 yards out, respectively. Those two scores would be the closest the Pirates would come to Lexington for the remainder of the game. The Horsemen would return a fumble and an interception, as well as pull in two passes to move the game out of reach for a fighting Peoria team. De'Tario Frederick would make the final score of the game, earning a 30-yard reception touchdown with 11 seconds left in the game.

Donald Carrie was roughed up in his first career af2 start, being sacked three times and picked off twice. He did manage to throw 17 for 29, totaling 277 yards in his debut. Phillip Brock was limited to his third-highest receiving total of the season, controlling 131 yards in the air with four touchdowns, three of which was by reception. Defensive manhandling from Lexington's Jamal Naji would determine the game. Naji had one sack, one forced fumble and a fumble recovery to make Carrie's debut a difficult one. Eddie Eviston would have a stellar game as well for the Horsemen, throwing 24 for 40, totaling 285 yards. John Cooper would pull in the majority of those yards, earning 141 marks and three touchdowns on ten receptions.

The Pirates take the 4th of July weekend off before traveling to Wilkes-Barre Scranton on July 12th. The Pirates head home for the final time July 19, taking on South Georgia. Great seats are still available by calling 309-673-1000.

Steamwheelers Earn 10th Franchise Victory with 54-27 Victory Over the Peoria Pirates

Wolves Nip Albany’s Playoff Hopes 50-33

Lexington Horsemen Return to Winning Ways Against Peoria

Sunday, June 29, 2008

Twisters Win Sixth in a Row

(North Little Rock, AR) - The Arkansas Twisters defeated the Iowa Barnstormers 55-46 to win its sixth straight game in front of 5460 fans at Alltel Arena.

Iowa, coached by former Twisters Head Coach John Gregory, had the early lead when Barnstormers quarterback Joe Brannen capped a 49 yard drive with a one yard touchdown run. The extra point gave Iowa a 7-0 lead.

The Barnstormers (4-9) took the lead again when Jeff Glas nailed a 40 yard field goal to put Iowa up 10-7 at the end of the first quarter.

Arkansas (9-4) came roaring back in the second quarter. Receiver Chris Denney caught an 11 yard pass from Rowley, and the extra point put the Twisters up 14-10.

Tracey Belton stripped Robert Kilow of the football on the next series and Belton recovered the ball at Arkansas 10 yard line. The Twisters next score was set up when Jon Schoonover dove out fully extended to catch a 34 yard pass and slid down to the one yard line. Kyle Rowley found Denney for a one yard score and the extra point put Arkansas up 21-10.

Rowley found Denney for three first half scores and the Twisters led 28-17 at halftime.

The Twisters began the third quarter by driving 38 yards and scoring when Rowley found Denney for the fourth time in the game. The catch was Denney's 30th of the season, and he became just the second Twisters player in history to reach 30 touchdown catches in a season. The extra point extended Arkansas' lead to 35-17.

Iowa wouldn't go away. They cut the lead down to four by going on a 14-0 run. The Barnstormer started the run by driving 45 yards and punched it in on a Brannen one yard run. Daniel McLemore intercepted Rowley on the next series. It was Rowley's first interception thrown in 258 pass attempts. Iowa cashed in the opportunity when Tim Dodge caught a pass and dashed up the sideline 29 yards for the score. The extra point cut the Twisters lead to 35-31.

Arkansas answered when Perry caught a Rowley pass in stride and went the distance to the endzone for six. James Paul connected on the extra point to put Arkansas up 42-31 at the end of three quarters.

The Barnstormers continued to exchange scores with the Twisters, but couldn't stop Arkansas' offense in the fourth quarter.

With Arkansas up 55-44, the Twisters defense stopped the Barnstormers on fourth down with 16 seconds left to put the finishing touches on hopes of a comeback attempt.

Rowley completed 28 of 43 pass attempts for 368 yards, eight touchdowns, and one interception. The 368 passing yards are third most in Twisters history. Jamaal Perry caught a game high 11 passes for 154 yards and two touchdowns. Denney finished with 10 catches for 123 touchdowns and 5 touchdowns. Schoonover added seven catches for 91 yards and one score. Tracy Belton finished with 7.0 tackles, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, and three pass breakups.

Brannen completed 23 of 36 passes for 315 yards and five total touchdowns. Former Twisters player Errick McCown caught 10 passes for a game high 168 yards. Former Twisters player Jason Simpson had 15.0 tackles.

The Twisters match a franchise record by winning its sixth straight game. The team will enjoy a week off before taking on Central Division leading Tulsa on July 12th.

Wolves Nip Albany’s Playoff Hopes 50-33

Saturday, June 28, 2008

Conference Championship Games Preview

Omaha, NE - The United Indoor Football playoffs are in full force. This weekend's games will be the conference championship games with the winners advancing to United Bowl IV to be played July 12th at a site to be determined. The four teams in the games have played each other already three times this season and will meet for the fourth time. The games are as follows: the Sioux Falls Storm will host the Billings Outlaws while the Bloomington Extreme welcome the RiverCity Rage.

BILLINGS (11-4) vs. SIOUX FALLS (11-3)

At Sioux Falls, SD

Saturday, 7:05 p.m. Central

The Sioux Falls Storm will host the Billings Outlaws in the Western Conference Championship game to be played Saturday evening at the Sioux Falls Arena. The match-up will be the fourth this season, 13th overall, and third in a conference championship setting in the last five years between the two teams. The Storm come into the game off a bye week. In their last action, Sioux Falls defeated the Bloomington Extreme 49-41 July 14th at home. Leading the way for the Storm were wide receiver Dusty Hovorka and UIF All-Star defensive lineman Cory Johnsen. Hovorka caught four passes for 49 yards and three touchdowns while also recovering a fumble in the end zone for his fourth touchdown. Johnsen led the defensive effort as he tallied 4.5 tackles, a team-high four tackles for loss and two sacks, and also recovered a fumble. The Outlaws defeated the Omaha Beef 47-30 last Saturday evening at Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark. Billings was led by UIF MVP Chris Dixon and defensive lineman Eugene Phillips. Dixon led the offense as he tallied 200 yards of total offense (55 rushing and 145 passing) and had a hand in five touchdowns (one rushing and four passing). Phillips led the defense as he made seven tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and two sacks.

RIVERCITY (7-8) vs. BLOOMINGTON (7-7)

At Bloomington, IL

Monday, 7:05 p.m. Central

The Bloomington Extreme will welcome the RiverCity Rage for the Eastern Conference Championship game to be played Monday evening at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum. The game will be the fourth this season and sixth in the past two seasons involving the two teams. In their last action, RiverCity fell last weekend to Billings 45-23 at home. Leading the way for the Rage were quarterback Ryan Maiuri and defensive back Ron Rockett. Maiuri led the offense with his 159 yards of total offense (55 rushing and 104 passing) while also throwing for two touchdowns (both to Virgil Union). Rockett led the defense with a team-high 12 tackles and also broke up a pass. The Extreme head into the game after a bye week. In their last action, Bloomington fell at the Sioux Falls Storm 49-41 on July 14th. Bloomington was led by defensive back Mike Crumpler and UIF All-Star Andre Raymond. Crumpler led the defense by making 2.5 tackles and a tackle for loss while also intercepting a pass, returning it five yards for a touchdown. Raymond had a solid all-around game as he tallied 235 all-purpose yards (seven rushing, 23 receiving, 180 kickoff returns and 25 missed field goal returns) and scored two touchdowns (one rushing and one receiving).

United Indoor Football Playoff Round One Review

Week 14: Sunday Matchup

SOUTH GEORGIA WILDCATS (8-4) AT DAYTONA BEACH THUNDERBIRDS (2-10)

SUNDAY, JUNE 29, 2008 - Ocean Center (6,396) 3:00 P.M. ET

Week 14 concludes on Sunday afternoon as the South Georgia Wildcats head to Daytona Beach for a South Division affair against the ThunderBirds. These two clubs have met twice in 2008 with the Wildcats claiming victory in both matchups, including a convincing 84-28 triumph in Week 11. In that contest South Georgia QB ANDRICO HINES led the way with seven TD passes while WR/KR P.J. BERRY had eight catches for 130 yards and four scores. More recently the Wildcats are coming off an even more impressive 57-55 road win last week against previously undefeated and No. 1-ranked Spokane. K SCOTT HODE booted a game-winning, 20-yard field goal as time expired. WR ANTWONE SAVAGE, who played for Spokane for two years (2006-07), caught three passes, all for touchdowns, to pace the Wildcats. Berry had over 100 yards receiving and one touchdown and also scored on a 58-yard kick return. South Georgia, currently a half game out of first place in the South, is also ranked No. 6 overall in the latest league coaches poll. Berry is one of the league's most explosive athletes. He currently leads the league in all-purpose yards (2,608), kick return yards (1,491) and kick return touchdowns (6) to go along with over 1,000 yards receiving. He also has 31 total touchdowns. DB ROLAND COLA boasts an af2-best 82.5 tackles and leads the team with seven interceptions. The ThunderBirds enter this week's contest looking to rebound from a recent five-game losing streak. Daytona Beach's most recent defeat came last Friday night at Albany, 59-49. The ThunderBirds actually led by eight points (35-27) early in the third quarter before four straight scores by Albany put the Conquest ahead by 18, 53-35. QB MATT BOHNET threw for 306 yards and four touchdowns but also threw two costly interceptions in the fourth quarter on back-to-back drives. WR PATRICK ROUZARD, playing in his second game with the squad, caught 10 passes for 143 yards with two touchdowns. WR JEREMY GRIER also contributed five catches for 97 yards with one score. DL JEROME WALKER stood out on defense with 4.5 tackles, including three tackles for loss and two sacks. Grier has been the team's most reliable receiver on the season with 55 catches for 673 yards and 14 TDs. Bohnet has had his share of ups and downs in his first af2 season. He's had two 300-yard passing games but has struggled with his accuracy, completing just 52 percent of his passes. Bohnet is also among the league leaders in interceptions thrown with 17. Daytona Beach's troubles in 2008 can be mainly attributed to turnovers as the club ranks second to last in the league with 46 overall. DB JOCQUES RICHARDSON has been the ThunderBirds top defender with a team-high six interceptions to go along with 29 total tackles. Daytona Beach's defense will need to step up in a big way if they hope to avoid a season series sweep by the talented Wildcats.

WILDCATS THUNDERBIRDS

SERIES LEADER South Georgia leads 2-0

LAST MEETING South Georgia won 84-28 on 6/7/2008

LAST FIVE GAMES 4-1 0-5

LAST GAME Won 57-55 at Spokane on 6/21/08 Lost 49-59 at Albany on 6/20/08

LEADERS WILDCATS THUNDERBIRDS

PASSING Hines: 163-270-9; 1979; 45 TDs Bohnet: 160-307-17; 1890; 28 TDs

RECEIVING Berry: 70-1085; 23 TDs Rutledge: 65-539; 5 TDs

RUSHING Parris: 17-34; 1 TD Jackson: 21-42; 3 TDs

TACKLES Cola: 82.5 Milton: 31.5

SACKS Woolridge: 6 Walker: 5.5

INTERCEPTIONS Cola: 7 Richardson: 6

KICKING Hode: 65-81 PAT; 8-15 FGs; 89 PTs Adams: 37-49 PAT; 11-30 FGs; 70 PTs

TEAM OFFENSE 51.4 PPG; 241.9 YPG 33.2 PPG; 232.0 YPG

TEAM DEFENSE 47.2 PPG; 273.2 YPG 53.9 PPG; 242.8 YPG

Desperados WR/DB Earns Honor for the Second Consecutive Week

Orlando escapes with 58-51 victory over Kansas City

Friday, June 27, 2008

Orlando's Cohen can Capture Three Records on Russell Athletic ESPN Arena Football Monday

NEW YORK - Orlando Predators DL B.J. COHEN can set three AFL postseason records when the Predators (9-7) travel to Quicken Loans Arena to face the Cleveland Gladiators (9-7) on Russell Athletic ESPN Arena Football Monday, June 30 at 7 p.m. ET (ESPN2 HD, ESPN360.com, SIRIUS RADIO - Channel 127).

Cohen, who has appeared in 14 career postseason games, can become the all-time postseason leader in sacks and defensive fumble recoveries with two more in each category. He can also pass BARRY WAGNER and become the all-time leader in forced fumbles with three.

Wolves Announce Calder Cup Finals Game Seven Date

Eskimos kickoff 2008 season in Saskatchewan

Game #1

Edmonton Eskimos @ Saskatchewan Roughriders

Date: Saturday, June 28, 2008

Place: Mosaic Stadium at Taylor Field - Regina

Kick-off: 5:30pm

Television: TSN

Radio: 630 CHED Edmonton (Bryan Hall & Dave Campbell)

620 CKRM Regina (Rod Pedersen & Carm Carteri)

Overview

If anyone needs extra motivation for the '08 lid lifter, the Eskimos can flash back to October 26, 2007 when the Riders snuffed out Edmonton's playoff hopes with a 36 - 29 OT win at Commonwealth. Much has changed for both teams since that night. The Riders would go on to win the Grey Cup, their first since '89, while the Esks would miss the post-season for the second straight year. No sweeter revenge for the Esks than to start 2008 with a win in Regina over the reigning champions.

Danny Maciocia wasted little time in overhauling his staff, bringing in the likes of Noel Thorpe, Mike Kelly, Ronnie Vinklarek and Don Wnek - all with CFL experience; promoting Rick Worman to Offensive Coordinator and adding the recently retired A.J. Gass as a defensive assistant. On the player personnel side Maciocia was no less active, landing CFL free agents - Jason Maas, Dario Romero and Garrick Jones to bring much needed experience and character. In separate deals, Maciocia traded for CFL All-Stars Fred Perry, Jordan Younger, Noel Prefontaine and Brock Ralph. Maciocia pulled off a draft day coup by swapping first round picks with Calgary and acquiring veteran centre John Comiskey, younger brother of Dan, and promising receiver Kevin Challenger.

Canadian talent was significantly upgraded as the work of Dan McKinnon, Ed Hervey and the scouts paid dividends at the draft table. With the exception of first round pick Greg Wojt (OL-Central Michigan) who has still college eligibility remaining, the remaining five players in the '08 Draft class are on the club's 53 man roster to start the season.

A few well publicized fights garnered headlines, but the real news from training camp '08 was the intense daily battle for jobs. Unheralded rookie Tristan Jackson locked up a spot as the Esks kick returner with a pair of pre-season TD returns. Damien Anderson, the former Arizona Cardinal and late addition in '07 held off some stiff competition to earn the starting running back job.

New coaches and players aside, the fate of the Esks' season rests squarely on the shoulders and arm of Ricky Ray. The Esks all-time leader in pass completions and yards suffered a season ending shoulder separation on September 28 against Toronto and Edmonton would go on to drop the final six games. Ray didn't go under the knife and thanks to a rigorous off-season rehab program, the sixth year CFL veteran is now back in top form.

Notables

- Jason Tucker needs 1 TD receptions to tie Tom Scoott for 2nd in TD receptions in Eskimo history (58).

- Ricky Ray needs 2 TD passes to tie Tom Wilkinson for 3rd in career TD passes in Eskimo history (129).

- Shannon Garrett needs 7 tackles for 600 defensive tackles in his career.

- The Eskimos have won 3 season openers against Saskatchewan and have lost 5 to them.

- For 2 of the 3 season openers won, the Eskimos have gone on to the Grey Cup final.

- The Eskimos are 36-22-1 for season opener games.

- Edmonton Sun Sports Columnist Terry Jones is as old as the Eskimos. He turned 60 years old on Wednesday, June 25.

The Eskimos host the Calgary Stampeders on July 3, 2008. 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.

The Eskimos open the 2008 CFL regular season in Saskatchewan, Saturday, June 28 (kickoff 5:30pm) . Edmonton hosts Calgary Thursday, July 3 (8:00pm kickoff). For more information on the Edmonton Eskimos visit our website at www.esks.com.

The Edmonton Eskimo Football Club is one of the most successful teams in CFL history with 13 Grey Cup championships and a North American pro-sports record of 34 consecutive years in the playoffs. A community-owned team, the Eskimos pride themselves on giving back to the community that has supported the organization throughout its illustrious history.

Eskimos add three, release three

Hockey legend Darryl Sittler’s 10-point game becomes work of art

Flames draft Nemisz, who follows in the footsteps of former teammate Renaud

Oilers send defenceman Danny Syvret to Flyers for forward Ryan Potulny

Eskimos Trade for O’Mahony

Esks’ Maurer Calls It A Career

Thursday, June 26, 2008

Stamps Set for Season Opener

The Stamps and Lions will collide for the first of three regular-season contests this season. The others will be played on Aug. 22 in Vancouver and Nov. 1 in Calgary. The Stamps were 0-3-1 in four games against the Lions in 2007.

John Hufnagel will make his regular-season debut as the Stamps head coach/general manager. He worked seven seasons for Lions head coach Wally Buono with the Stamps in the 1990s.

The Purolator Tackle Hunger program makes its 2008 launch at the game and fans are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to any entrance gate. With a donation, fans will be given an opportunity to have their picture taken pre-game with the Grey Cup (east side of stadium).

The Stampeders will honour recently retired Jay McNeil at halftime. McNeil played 14 seasons with the Red and White and was a pillar on and off the field. Following the game, there will be a Celebrate Canada fireworks display presented by the Calgary Herald and Global Calgary.

For tickets call the Stampeders' Ticket Office at 403.289.0258 or visit Stampeders.com. Tickets are also available through Ticketmaster at 403.777.0000 or by visiting Ticketmaster.ca. Stampeders single game tickets for remaining games go on sale June 27.

Visit the all-new Stampeders.com for the latest Stampeders news including exclusive videos, blogs and behind the scenes access.

Game Seven Sunday Night!

Game Six Tickets on Sale Now

Eskimos Trade for O’Mahony

Rivermen Announce Radio Home Moves to Hippie 101.1 FM

Dorados Announce Guys Night Out

Hidalgo, Texas --- The Rio Grande Valley Dorados, arenafootball2's defending Southwest Division champions, today announced details for Guys Night Out on Monday, July 14, vs. the Corpus Christi Sharks.

The first 1,000 adults through the doors will receive a Dorados jersey, courtesy Fox Rio 2, Q. 94.5 The Rock Station and San Juan Pharmacy.

Fans will enjoy $1.50 beer all night and halftime will feature a Powder Puff football game between the Dorados Dancers and McAllen Hooters Girls.

In addition, all fans who bring a care pack for Operation Interdependence will receive a voucher redeemable for one of the final two Dorados regular season home games of 2008. Items to be donated should fit in a quart-size zip lock bag. Operation Interdependence supports American troops overseas by delivering "goodie bags." A list of items for inclusion is available by clicking here.

"Our goal is to make an otherwise mundane Monday night an opportunity for friends to get together, have some fun cheering on the Dorados, while also supporting our service men and women," said Dorados General Manager Grant W. Buckborough.

Dorados single game tickets are available at all TicketMaster outlets, including online (www.ticketmaster.com) and at the Dodge Arena Box Office. Season and group tickets are available by calling 956-843-7825. Group tickets are as low as $12 per game.

Phantoms Announce East Division Finals Schedule

America’s Heroes Night at the Amarillo Civic Center for Dusters game

Dorados Dominate Yard Dawgz In 53-36 Win

Admirals Continue Season Ticket Referral Program

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Samuels Named Ironman of the Week

TAMPA - The Arena Football League named Tampa Bay Storm wide receiver/linebacker Lawrence Samuels Ironman of the Week for his effort on offense and defense in Week 17. He also received Ironman of the week in Weeks 9 and 12.

"Lawrence just keeps going and going," said Head Coach and General Manager Tim Marcum. "He is a legitimate candidate for Ironman of the Year."

Samuels (6-foot-2, 210-pounds, Livingston) recorded a game-high 11 receptions for 99 yards and two touchdowns, while recording an interception and a key defensive stop on fourth down as the Tampa Bay Storm defeated the Los Angeles Avengers, 72-47, on Saturday. Samuels caught touchdowns passes of seven and five yards. On defense, he played a key role in keeping the Avengers off of the scoreboard in the first quarter as he intercepted Sonny Cumbie on the first play of the game and made a key pass breakup on fourth down on the Avengers second possession to force a turnover on downs. The turnover on downs resulted in a Storm touchdown five plays later.

The Tampa Bay Storm look forward to next season as many key players from 2008 will return. Quarteback Brett Dietz, fullback Torrance Marshall and lineman Tim McGill, 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.

Pettis Named AFL Ironman of the Week

Storm Cast Spell on VooDoo, 41-37

Samuels Named Ironman of the Week

Rattlers O-Lineman Atlas Herrion Named to All-Rookie Team

MESA, Ariz. - OL ATLAS HERRION (6-4, 305, Alabama) of the playoff-bound Arizona Rattlers was named to the Arena Football League's All-Rookie team today.

Herrion started 14 consecutive games for the Rattlers on the offensive line after being named the starter for the March 15, 2008 match-up with San Jose. He came to the AFL after spending three seasons in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns and the Houston Texans.

Herrion and the rest of the Rattlers will open their 2008 playoff run at home on June 30 against the Grand Rapids Rampage. Kickoff is slated for 6:30pm PT, and the game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN2 and ESPN2 HD.

The 2008 Arizona Rattlers guaranteed a trip to the playoffs for its season ticket holders, and have come through on that promise. Season tickets, group tickets and premium single game tickets can be purchased by calling the Rattlers ticket hotline at 602-514-TDTD. Single game tickets are now on sale at the USAirways box office and all Ticketmaster locations. More information is available at www.azrattlers.com.

Admirals Continue Season Ticket Referral Program

Lions Secure Four Members of Class of 2008

Monday, June 23, 2008

United Indoor Football Playoff Round One Review

Omaha, NE - Week one of the UIF playoffs is in the books. The two home teams won to move on to their respective conference championship games. There are now four teams remaining who will continue their United Bowl championship dreams next weekend. This weekend's results are as follows: the Billings Outlaws defeated the Omaha Beef and the RiverCity Rage beat the Sioux City Bandits.

RIVERCITY 37, SIOUX CITY 33

At St. Charles, MO

The RiverCity Rage beat the Sioux City Bandits 37-33 Saturday evening at the Family Arena in St. Charles, Missouri. Leading the way for the Rage were quarterback Ryan Maiuri and defensive back Ron Rockett. Maiuri tallied 159 yards of total offense (55 rushing and 104 passing) and threw for two touchdowns (both to Virgil Union). Rockett led the defense with a team-high 12 tackles and also broke up a pass. Leading the way for the Bandits were running back Johnny Bentley and defensive back John Zevenbergen. Bentley tallied 131 all-purpose yards (116 rushing and 15 receiving) and rushed for two touchdowns. Zevenbergen made four tackles and also intercepted a pass. With the win, RiverCity's season continues as they will hit the road to play the Bloomington Extreme in the Eastern Conference Championship game to be played Monday, June 30th at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum. Sioux City finishes their season with a 4-11 record.

BILLINGS 47, OMAHA 30

At Billings, MT

The Billings Outlaws defeated the Omaha Beef 47-30 Saturday evening at Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark in Billings, Montana. Billings was led by quarterback Chris Dixon and defensive lineman Eugene Phillips. Dixon tallied 200 yards of total offense (55 rushing and 145 passing) and had a hand in five touchdowns (one rushing and four passing). Phillips made seven tackles and 2.5 tackles for loss while also tallying two sacks. Leading the way for Omaha were defensive back Diezeas Calbert and quarterback James McNear. Calbert led the Beef's defense with 5.5 tackles and also broke up a pass. On offense, McNear tallied 277 yards of total offense (45 rushing and 232 passing) and threw four touchdown passes (to three different receivers). With the win, Billings' season continues as they will hit the road to play Sioux Falls Storm in the Western Conference Championship game to be played Saturday, June 28th at the Sioux Falls Arena. Omaha finishes their season ends with a 10-5 record.

UIF POST-SEASON SCHEDULE

Saturday, June 28th Billings at Sioux Falls 7:05 p.m. Central

Monday, June 30th RiverCity at Bloomington 7:05 p.m. Central

Saturday, July 12th United Bowl IV

Eastern Conference winner vs. Western Conference winner

Site and Time TBD

Saturday, July 19th UIF All-Star Game

Tyson Events Center - Sioux City, Iowa 7:05 p.m.

Saturday, July 26th Intense Football League champion vs. UIF champion in

National Indoor Bowl Championship game at

United Bowl Champion Time TBD

United Indoor Football Week Fourteen Review

Omaha Beef Head North On I-29 To Meet The Sioux City Bandits Saturday

Omaha Beef Beat Bandits; Win Seventh In A Row

Dusters Youth Football Camp starts tomorrow

AMARILLO, TEXAS The Amarillo Dusters Youth Football Camp starts tomorrow and runs through Wednesday. People have been signing up for the past few weeks to get kids signed up for a spot in the camp. Dusters players and coaches will be coaching the camp, running drills and plays with the kids.

"It is a great experience for not only the kids, but also for us as players and coaches," said head coach Chris MacKeown. "It's another chance for us to give back to the community a little bit."

The camp is at the Amarillo Civic Center Arena. Participants need to come in Entrance 7 to sign in and receive their t-shirt. The camp begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Mr. Gatti's is providing lunch each day and Coca-Cola is providing PowerAde for the camp.

"We want to have fun with the kids, but we also want to take the opportunity to teach them what it takes to be a successful football player," MacKeown said.

The football campers will be a part of the pre-game events at the game on June 28. Four tickets were included with camp registration but additional tickets can be purchased at a special rate by calling the Dusters Box Office at 806.350.7277.

It's not too late to register your child for camp. Call the Dusters office today or come to Entrance 7 at the Amarillo Civic Center arena at 9:30 a.m. tomorrow to register for camp.

The Dusters will take on the Tulsa Talons this Saturday at the Amarillo Civic Center Arena. Tickets start at just $16 and are on sale now. To reserve yours, call the Dusters Box Office at 806.350.7277, visit www.dustersfootball.com , or stop by any Panhandle Tickets outlet.

America’s Heroes Night at the Amarillo Civic Center for Dusters game

‘Dogs to Hold Training Camp, Host Pre-Season Tournament on “The Rock”

Sunday, June 22, 2008

Gladiators to Host Home Playoff Game

CLEVELAND - The Mitsubishi Motors Drive to ArenaBowl XXII will make a stop in Cleveland, as the #4 seed Cleveland Gladiators will host the #5 seed Orlando Predators at Quicken Loans Arena on Monday, June 30 at 7:00 p.m. ET in the Wild Card Round of the 2008 Arena Football League Playoffs.

With a Philadelphia Soul 59-30 win over the New York Dragons on Sunday afternoon, the Gladiators captured the #4 spot.

"I can't wait for Monday Night Football at The Q," said Gladiators President & CEO BERNIE KOSAR. "I know the greatest fans in the world will come out and support our guys as we make our run for the ArenaBowl in New Orleans."

Tickets will go on sale on TUESDAY, JUNE 24 at 10:00 a.m. at the Quicken Loans Arena box office, any TicketMaster location, at www.clevelandgladiators.com or by calling the Gladiators at 216.685.9000.

For phone and internet orders, team officials recommend that fans use Ticketmaster's TicketFast delivery system where tickets can be printed out on a home or office computer to avoid any lines.

Ticket prices for the game will be the same as the regular season with tickets starting at $13. For more information, please call the Galdiators Office at (216) 685-9000.

Gladiators Hand Soul First Loss of the Season, 67-55

Desperados WR/DB Earns Honor for the Second Consecutive Week

Monsters Contributions with Avalanche

Blue Bombers Set Practice Roster

WINNIPEG, MB - The Winnipeg Blue Bombers announced the following players have signed practice roster agreements with the football club:

#14 Willie Amos, defensive back

#92 Brian Guebert, fullback

#39 Joe Lobendahn, linebacker

#38 Marc Beswick, defensive back

#93 Josh Miller, defensive lineman

#21 Casey McGahee, wide receiver

Blue Bombers have release Tim McManigal

Tactical change pays off for Revs

Saturday, June 21, 2008

Rage Host Bandits in First Round Saturday

St. Charles, MO - The RiverCity Rage will host the Sioux City Bandits this Saturday night in round one of the UIF playoffs. The kickoff is set for 7:00 at the Family Arena in St. Charles. This season marks the fourth straight year in the playoffs for the Rage. The Rage defeated the Bandits, 41-27, in Sioux City just two weeks ago. However, Rage Head Coach Ken Stills is not taking anything for granted this week.

"We played well at their place," said Stills. "But they had us down by 13 points early on. They have an explosive offense and the league's leader in rushing. It's going to come down, once again, to our defense stopping a good offense. We have been relying on them all season and that won't change in the playoffs. Our offense is going to have to come to play as well. We should have good field position to work with thanks to our defense and kick return game. We just need to make sure our guys take advantage of what is given to them."

The Bandits come into play with the UIF's top rusher in running back John Bentley who is averaging 61.9 yards on the ground per game. He ran for 57 yards against the Rage in their previous meeting, however, 28 of those yards came on one carry. Sioux City also brings the league's third ranked quarterback in Chris Kapanui. The University of Hawaii alum sits third in passing yards (171.6 per game), total offense (181.6), and touchdown passes (40).

The Rage defense will have its hands full on Saturday. However, they do come in to play ranked in the top four in several categories: scoring defense (3rd, allowing 34.3 points per game), pass defense (2nd, allowing 141.2 yards per game), turnover margin (3rd, +5), rushing defense (4th, allowing 69.9 yards per game) and total defense (3rd, allowing 211.2 yards per game). The Rage defense also boasts the newly crowned UIF Defensive Player of the Year in linebacker, Joe Bevis, as well as all-star safety Milton Proctor.

"We know what we have to do to beat these guys," added Stills. "If we play our game, dictate the pace and time of possession, and limit our mistakes, there is nothing this team can't do. We, as a staff, are all looking forward to the playoffs, and I know the players are as well. Some of these guys have been here for all four trips into the playoffs and have never won the whole thing. That's what I was brought in to do and I look forward to the challenge ahead."

The gates open at 6:00 at the Family Arena and the first 1,000 fans in attendance will receive a free team poster. The Rage are also thanking their fans for another great season by offering $1 hotdogs all night. Tickets are available right now and the prices could not be better. Front Row seats $10, Lower Level for $8 and Upper Level for just $5. Order yours today by calling (636) 896.4285 or visit ragefootball.com.

United Indoor Football Week Fourteen Review

Omaha Beef Head North On I-29 To Meet The Sioux City Bandits Saturday

Soul Sign Raheem Orr

PHILADELPHIA - The Philadelphia Soul have signed linebacker Raheem Orr.

Orr played for the Soul during the 2006 and 2007 seasons and attended training camp with the Soul before the 2008 season. In his two previous seasons with the Soul, he recorded 28 tackles, 3 sacks, and 1 interception which he returned for a six-yard touchdown. He was released by the Soul on February 21, 2008 and signed with the Grand Rapids Rampage shortly after. He was later released from the Rampage practice squad on June 6.

Orr was drafted out of Rutgers University in the 5th round by the Houston Texans in the 2004 NFL Draft. He was later waived by the Texans and picked up by the New York Giants. He played in two games for the Giants but did not accumulate any statistics.

The Philadelphia Soul (12-3), YOUR Team...YOUnited, will travel to New York to do battle with the Dragons on Sunday June 22, 2008. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. and can be heard live on the home of the Soul, 950 ESPN Radio, and streamed live on-line at 950ESPN.com.

The Soul are celebrating their fifth anniversary this season. Following last 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. The Soul have drawn 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 a crowd of 16,477 fans per game. Since their inception, the Soul have drawn a total of 646,043 fans, the most in the AFL over that time frame. Soul 2008 playoff tickets are now on sale. For more playoff ticket information call (888) PHIL-AFL or log on to www.philadelphiasoul.com.

Rampage Beat Marlies 3-0 To Force Game Seven

Soul Sign DB Ward

Donovan fit, ready for milestone

Moose re-sign Mike Keane

Monday Night Football Comes to the 'Ville

Louisville, KY-Monday, June 23 will be a special night because it is the first Monday Night Football game played in team history. The Fire plan on celebrating with a bang: $1 beers and hot dogs, Rockin' Ray and the Sky Dogs, Mrs. Kentucky, and football.

"Being our first Monday night game in the history of the Fire, we want to make it a special night for all of our fans," answered Fire General Manager Dave Berryman when asked about the first Monday night football game in team history. "We are hoping for a big crowd and an entertaining atmosphere."

The evening will begin with tailgating at 5:30 in the front of Freedom Hall. Fans will be able to enjoy $1 hot dogs and wash it down with $1 beers. Norton Healthcare will be offering free health screenings as well. Tailgating is also a perfect place for the families because Jump 2 It will be setting up inflatables for children to have fun on. This is a perfect opportunity for businesses to come out after work with a few clients or employees and treat them to an evening.

At 7:30 the Fire will be going for the sweep of the Lexington Horsemen. Louisville won the first two meetings of the season against the Horsemen. In April the Fire hosted the first game in the "War on 64" rivalry and won 61-34. Lexington hosted the second game in the series and the Fire won 61-31. Coming into the third installment of the "War on 64" both teams need the win. The Horsemen are entering with a 7-4 record and the Fire with a 6-5 record. This game is crucial because the season is winding down and the playoffs are fast approaching. The Fire are currently an eight seed but with a victory, they can move up to fifth seed with four games remaining.

In honor of the sweep the Fire are offering a special ticket promotion. Fans will receive half price tickets if they bring a broom to the box office.

"It is a rarity to play a team three times in one season, and even rarer to have the chance to go for a sweep", stated Assistant General Manager/Ticket Manager Adam Luken. "There is always a lot of hype when Louisville and Lexington play in any sport. This promotion will add more fuel to FIRE and is good for arena football in the state of Kentucky."

The newly crowned Mrs. Kentucky Ra'Tonya Willis-Friedman will be attended the bluegrass battle. She was crowned Mrs. Kentucky on June 14. Willis-Friedman will be participating as an honorary captain in the pre-game festivities along with members of the Fox in the Morning Show, Barry Bernson and Marc Weinberg. Mrs. Kentucky will also be available after the game to sign autographs and take pictures with fans.

The Fire will also have special guest Rockin' Ray and the Sky Dogs perform at halftime. Rockin' Ray and the Sky Dogs is a high flying, award winning, Frisbee dog act. They are sure to excite everyone in attendance.

Louisville's season is rapidly coming to an end, so do not miss out on the 2008 action. The Fire have three home games remaining: Lexington Horsemen on June 23, Albany Conquest on July 12, and the Peoria Pirates on July 26.

Commitment to defense fueling Fire

Blizzard Moves Into First Place

America’s Heroes Night at the Amarillo Civic Center for Dusters game

Fire sign Paraguayan defender Marmol

Cable 14 to Celebrate One-Year Anniversary of Hamilton Bulldogs Calder Cup Championship

Mrs. Kentucky Shows Support for Fire

Lions release five

(Vancouver) - The BC Lions Football Club announced today that the following players have been released:

QB Gino Guidugli

DB James Bethea

OL Clint Stickdorn

WR Dedrick Poole

DL Tory Collins

The club's 46-man roster and seven-man practice squad will be announced on Saturday.

General manager and head coach Wally Buono is available to the media at 11:00 am today at the club's Surrey practice facility.

The Leos open their 2008 regular season home schedule with a visit from the Saskatchewan Roughriders on Friday, July 4th at 7:00 pm. 2008 BC Lions single game tickets are on sale now! For more information on ticket packages call 604.589.ROAR or visit bclions.com.

Eskimos Release Hollis

Lions Secure Four Members of Class of 2008

Singapore to increase night running

Marlies Announce Dates For Western Conference Finals

Wolves announce game time changes

Thursday, June 19, 2008

Rochester Raiders Ready For The Transition

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (June 19, 2008)- Saturday night the Rochester Raiders will play their first game in the American Indoor Football Association (AIFA) when the Erie Riverrats travel to the Blue Cross Arena. Kickoff is scheduled for 8pm. The Raiders will be holding a fan appreciation day by making admission to the game 100% free of charge. Saturday's game will be the first game in the "American Indoor Cup Championship Series" and will be the first of what could be up to four more home games for the Raiders. The Raiders are scheduled to play two games (June 21 and June 28) against AIFA teams and are currently in talks to create a game against their former league the CIFL's championship winning team. "We have always been an organization dedicated to our fans and this city," commented Raiders co-owner Dave McCarthy, "We are allowing fans to come watch two games at no cost to them as we make this transition to 8 on 8 football. We have two great teams coming in over the next two weeks and they should both prove to be extremely competitive. It is not going to be an easy transition but we feel that we have an extremely talented coach and players that are more then capable of being successful in this league."

Penguins look to keep home record perfect and clinch Cup final berth

This Week in the AIFA Covers Week Eleven of the AIFA Season

Mrs. Kentucky Shows Support for Fire

Louisville, KY-On Monday, June 23 the Louisville Fire will be taking on the Lexington Horsemen. With the state coming together for a football game, the newly crowned Mrs. Kentucky, Ra'Tonya Willis-Friedman, decided that it would be good for her to show her support. Mrs. Kentucky will be one of the honorary captains for the game. She will also be available to meet fans following the game on the field during the autograph session.

Ra'Tonya, married to Gary Friedman, is a lifelong resident of Louisville, KY. She is a graduate of Male High School and holds a B.S. from the University of Louisville, a MAT and MEA from Spalding University where she also completed the Doctoral in Educational Leadership Program. Ra'Tonya now considers her biggest accomplishment the opportunity to be a "stay at home Mom" to Noa'Sosa, their 9 month old son.

Ra'Tonya competed in the Mrs. Kentucky pageant as Mrs. Louisville Slugger. She will represent the Commonwealth of Kentucky in the Mrs. America pageant on September 2, 2008 in Tucson, AZ.

The Louisville Fire will be hosting their own Mrs. Louisville Fire competition on July 9, 2008 from 7:00 to 9:00. The winner will then be announced at halftime of the Fire game on July 12, 2008 against the Albany Conquest.

The Fire will be hosting the Lexington Horsemen in the finale of the "War on 64". Kickoff is set for 7:30 P.M. on Monday, June 23, the first Monday night game in Fire history. Louisville has won the previous two meetings this season 61-34 and 61-31. Fans are encouraged to bring their brooms to receive half price tickets for the game. For ticket information call the Fire office at (502) 368-0009 or visit any Ticketmaster outlet.

Williams Enjoys Record Week As Losing Streak Hits Four Games

Weigl optimistic of Honda support

Herron looks to make mark with Fire

Spring Carnival Rides Into Town

Blizzard Moves Into First Place

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

Beef schedule BBQ

Omaha, NE- A BBQ sponsored by the Omaha BEEF that had been planned for Wednesday evening, June 18th, has been put on hold as the team plans for travel to Billings, Montana for a round one UIF playoff game.

The event, to take place during the College World Series, will be held at a location close to Rosenblatt Stadium. The BBQ will be rescheduled for later this week with notification of the new date and time to be sent to the Omaha BEEF fans.

In addition to the College World Series BBQ, the Omaha BEEF will be holding their 2008 team awards banquet in the coming days. The banquet will take place at Heidelberg's in Omaha. A tentative date of June 29th has been set, but is subject to change as the UIF playoffs progress and travel schedules are set.

Attending the awards banquet will be the players, coaches, Prime Dancers, office staff, Rump Roasters and special guests. All BEEF fans are encouraged to attend the awards ceremony. The final date and time will be announced as soon as it is determined.

Please visit www.BEEFFOOTBALL.com often for all of your Omaha BEEF information and to see available information about the BBQ and the 2008 awards banquet.

The Omaha BEEF opened their 2008 home season versus the Bloomington Extreme on March 15, 2008. All home games will be played at the Omaha Civic Auditorium.

The BEEF are a member of the United Indoor Football Association, the premier indoor football league in America. As a member of the Omaha community, the BEEF are committed to making a positive difference in the Omaha area through football, fun and community service. For more information about the Omaha BEEF, log on to www.beeffootball.com.

Wolves Announce Calder Cup Finals Game Seven Date

Full Slate Of Events Keeps Omaha Beef Involved In The Community This Week

Brandon Hussey grabs Catch of the Week Award

CHICAGO - Wilkes-Barre/Scranton wide receiver/defensive back RICH MUSINSKI, Mahoning Valley wide receiver CLENTON RAFE and Amarillo defensive back AARON WILLIAMS have been named the JLS Ironman, Schutt Offensive Player and ADT Defensive Player of the Week, respectively, for Week 12 of the 2008 season. In addition to these three awards, the Cutters Catch of the Week Award for Week 12 goes to Corpus Christi wide receiver BRANDON HUSSEY.

JLS IRONMAN OF THE WEEK Musinski (6-0, 205, William & Mary) had a solid all-around effort for Wilkes-Barre/Scranton in the team's 77-49 home win against Tennessee Valley. The rookie from William & Mary was a factor on both sides of the ball to help the No. 3-ranked Pioneers win their 17th straight game at Wachovia Arena dating back to 2006. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton's current home win streak is the second longest in league history. The Pioneers' Week 12 victory also snapped the No. 5-ranked Vipers' seven-game win streak. Offensively, Musinski lined up at wide receiver and caught the first touchdown of the contest. He was also a factor on defense with three solo tackles and a 34-yard fumble return touchdown. This is the first weekly af2 award of Musinski's career. He currently leads the team in receiving touchdowns (19) and ranks second on the squad in receiving yards (738) and third in receptions (53). Musinski has also accumulated 25 tackles and two fumble recoveries on defense.

SCHUTT OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK Rafe (5-11, 185, Albany State), in his second af2 season, had an impressive individual showing for Mahoning Valley during the team's Week 12 home loss against Manchester. The Albany State alum had 11 catches for 199 yards receiving and six touchdowns. Rafe's receiving yards and receiving touchdown totals were both Week 12 highs. In just four games played Rafe is tied for the team lead in receiving touchdowns with 13 and ranks second overall in receptions (25), receiving yards (421) and scoring (78 points). This is the first weekly af2 award of Rafe's career.

ADT DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK Williams (5-10, 190, Cal Poly) was an impact player on defense in Amarillo's 49-35 Week 12 home victory against Rio Grande Valley. The second-year player from Cal Poly made quite an impression with four total tackles (3 solo, 2 asst) and three interceptions (Week 12 high). Two of Williams' three picks came in the fourth quarter to help the Dusters preserve their fifth win of the season. This is the first weekly af2 award of his career. Williams currently leads the team in tackles (38.5), interceptions (8) and pass breakups (14).

CUTTERS CATCH OF THE WEEK

Hussey (5-9, 175, Winston-Salem State) is the Week 12 recipient of the Cutters Catch of the Week Award, a weekly honor that emerged in 2006 to highlight the player who makes the best catch of the week. Hussey's catch was an eight-yard, first quarter touchdown stab in the Sharks' 49-45 home loss against Austin. The second-year player from Winston-Salem State went up the ladder in the back of the end zone and made a one-handed grab off a pass from QB Fran Johnson. For an encore, Hussey made another leaping one-handed catch in the back of the end zone for a 30-yard touchdown in the second quarter. He finished with six catches for 69 yards and two touchdowns. This is the first af2 weekly honor of Hussey's career. He currently leads Corpus Christi in receptions (74), receiving TDs (16) and scoring (100 points) and ranks second in receiving yards (828).

JLS Ironman of the Week candidates included: Boise's Demond Williams, Austin's Mel Long, Austin's Kamau Jackson, Bossier-Shreveport's Dustin Johnson, Tulsa's Luke Phillips, Arkansas' Jason Null, Quad City's Malik Jackson, South Georgia's P.J. Berry, Central Valley's Jomo Wilson, Louisville's Demetrius Forney, Lexington's William Mulder, Mahoning Valley's Clenton Rafe and Spokane's Harrison Nikolao.

Schutt Offensive Player of the Week candidates included: Oklahoma City's Al Hunt, Corpus Christi's Fran Johnson, Bossier-Shreveport's Manwell Talbert, Tulsa's Jeff Hughley, Arkansas' Jamaal Perry, Amarillo's Julian Reese, Quad City's J.J. Raterink, South Georgia's P.J. Berry, Central Valley's Tonae Martin, Louisville's Randall Lane, Lexington's Chad Spencer, Manchester's James Pinkney, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton's J.J. Outlaw and Spokane's Nick Davila.

ADT Defensive Player of the Week candidates included: Oklahoma City's DonTa Bright, Corpus Christi's Henry Hall, Bossier-Shreveport's Kendrick Bournes, Tulsa's Jermaine Hope, Arkansas' Tito Hannah, Peoria's Timothy Hunt, South Georgia's Roland Cola, Stockton's Ruschard Dodd-Masters, Louisville's Matt Forbes, Lexington's Jamus Martin, Manchester's Trey Bell, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton's Darius Leak and Spokane's Nygel Rogers. Previous 2008 Winners:Week 11: Quad City's Kris Peters (Offensive), Peoria's Blake Farris & Texas' James Todd (Defensive), Austin's Kamau Jackson (Ironman), Arkansas' Chris Denney (Catch)Week 10: Quad City's J.J. Raterink (Offensive), Tennessee Valley's Rajohn Myles (Defensive), Manchester's Bradly Chavez (Ironman), Oklahoma City's Danny Howard (Catch)Week 9: Lubbock's Robert Kent (Offensive), Rio Grande Valley's John Scott (Defensive), Boise's Demond Williams (Ironman), Arkansas' Jon Schoonover (Catch)Week 8: Wilkes-Barre/Scranton's Ryan Vena (Offensive), Quad City's Kevin Adams (Defensive), Tennessee Valley's Travis Blanchard (Ironman), Stockton's Clarence Cunningham (Catch)Week 7: Daytona Beach's Matt Bohnet (Offensive), Corpus Christi's Ivory McCann (Defensive), Wilkes-Barre/Scranton's Larry Kendrick (Ironman), Tri-Cities' J.R. Thomas (Catch)Week 6: Boise's George Williams (Offensive), Daytona Beach's Jocques Richardson (Defensive), Texas' Armar Watson (Ironman), Rio Grande Valley's Eddie Jackson (Catch) Week 5: Wilkes-Barre/Scranton's Ryan Vena (Offensive), Austin's Demetrie McCray (Defensive), Tulsa's Jermaine Hope (Ironman), Iowa's Bryan Pray (Catch)Week 4: Amarillo's Donte Newsome (Offensive), South Georgia's Joe Woolridge (Defensive), Wilkes-Barre/Scranton's Larry Kendrick (Ironman), Lexington's Chad Spencer (Catch)Week 3: Albany's Jared Jones (Offensive), Boise's Chris Bruhn (Defensive), Corpus Christi's Ivory McCann (Ironman), Tulsa's Jeff Hughley (Catch) Week 2: Oklahoma City's Al Hunt (Offensive), Spokane's Sergio Gilliam (Defensive), Florida's Chris McKinney (Ironman), Amarillo's Wallace House (Catch) Week 1: South Georgia's Cecil Lester (Offensive), Spokane's Sergio Gilliam (Defensive), Mahoning Valley's John Tackmann (Ironman), Corpus Christi's Jonathan Graham (Catch)

Week Ten: Quick Hitters

Sunday, June 15, 2008

Soul defeat Gladiators, 62-61

Philadelphia -- Defensive back Eddie Moten made a leaping interception of a two-point conversion pass attempt with five seconds remaining to give the Philadelphia Soul a 62-61 victory over the Cleveland Gladiators Saturday night before a crowd of 16,637 at the Wachovia Spectrum.

The game-saving play preserved a comeback win for the playoff-bound Soul against a motivated Cleveland team needing a win to advance its own post-season aspirations. The loss dropped the Gladiators to 8-7 on the season.

With the victory, the Soul improved to 12-3 and maintained at least a share of the Eastern Division lead with one game remaining in the regular season. Philadelphia will go after its franchise-record 13th victory Sunday afternoon, June 22, against the New York Dragons at Nassau Coliseum on Long Island. A win over the Dragons will assure the Soul of homefield advantage in the playoffs and against the Dallas Desperados, who the Soul defeated twice this year.

Dallas beat New York on Saturday night to remain tied with the Soul at 12-3.

The Soul's first playoff game is expected to take place at the Wachovia Complex on July 5 or 6 if there is a bye or the weekend of June 28. The Conference Championship games are set for July 12 and Arena Bowl XXII will be held on Sunday, July 27, in New Orleans.

Soul quarterback Matt D'Orazio hit wide receiver Chris Jackson for three touchdowns, including a 15-yarder with 37 seconds remaining to put the Soul ahead, 62-55. The Gladiators answered with an impressive drive culminating in a nine-yard touchdown from quarterback Raymond Philyaw to Otis Amey with just five seconds left. Instead of kicking the extra point to force overtime, the Gladiators decided to go for the victory with a two-point conversion, setting up Moten's heroics.

The Soul jumped out to a 14-0 lead in the first three minutes with D'Orazio hitting Brent Holmes on a pair of one-play touchdown drives, the first covering 38 yards and the second 14. Cleveland closed to within six points several times during the first half and trailed at intermission, 41-35, behind two late touchdown passes from Philyaw to Amey.

With starting quarterback Tony Graziani sidelined by the concussion suffered last week in Dallas, D'Orazio was stellar once again, completing 25-of- 39 passes for 283 yards and six touchdowns. He also ran for two scores.

As he continues to chase Arena Football League all-time receiving records, Jackson registered nine catches for 104 yards. He now needs 231 yards to surpass Barry Wagner as the league's lifetime receiving yards record. He now has 48 touchdowns, a new personal single-season record, and he is the third player in the history of the league to amass over 2,000 points.

Philyaw completed 26-of-38 passes for 319 yards and six touchdowns.

The win also avenged an earlier season loss by the Soul in Cleveland.

Gladiators Hand Soul First Loss of the Season, 67-55

Destroyers' comeback falls short

COLUMBUS, OH - The Columbus Destroyers, presented by Germain, lost to the Grand Rapids Rampage 63-60 Saturday night on Huntington Field at Nationwide Arena in front of 12,831 fans.

With 1:04 left in the game Columbus (3-12) defensive lineman Michael Landry sacked Grand Rapids (5-10) quarterback James MacPherson, forcing a fumble, which was recovered by Tremaine Neal on the Rampage 14 yardline. The Destroyers could not take advantage of the opportunity, turning the ball over on downs with 0:02 remaining in the game.

Destroyers' wide receiver C.J. Johnson took home Offensive Player of the Game honors finishing the game with nine catches for a career-high 162 receiving yards and four touchdowns, which also tied a career best. Columbus quarterback Matt Nagy had another 300-plus yard passing game, ending this contest with 343 yards and six touchdowns, completing 24 of 38 passes.

Down 7-3 in the first quarter, Nagy found wide receiver Derek Lee for a 27-yard touchdown catch. Lee finished the game with eight catches for 159 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Grand Rapids responded with a three-play touchdown drive, allowing them to regain a four-point lead at the close of the quarter.

With 10:12 remaining in the second quarter, Columbus quarterback Justin Zwick made his debut as an AFL quarterback. On his first play from scrimmage, the rookie threw the ball from his own end zone, finding C.J. Johnson for a 47-yard touchdown. The play gave the destroyers a three-point lead, 24-21. After the teams traded touchdowns on the next four drives, Matt Thomas intercepted a MacPherson pass in the end zone to conclude the first half with a score of 38-35 in favor of Columbus.

Rampage defensive back Chris Martin opened the second half with his second kickoff return for touchdown of the night, taking back the lead for Grand Rapids. Columbus responded with pass and catch score from Nagy to Lee, to give the Destroyers a 45-42 advantage.

The Destroyers found themselves down by two scores after Bowling Green product Cole Magner caught two touchdowns, giving Grand Rapids a 56-45 lead at the end of the third quarter.

Johnson scored with 3:47 remaining in the game when Nagy found him for a 22-yard pass and catch. Wide receiver Rasheed Marshall played quarterback on the two point conversion, which he converted with a run from the three yardline.

The Destroyers will play their final regular season game Saturday, June 21, as they travel to take on the Cleveland Gladiators at Quicken Loans Arena. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. (ET).

Thomas and Destroyers’ defense come up big in the second half

Thursday, June 12, 2008

Stamps Training Camp - Day 11 Recap

Here's a quick summary of Day 11 of Calgary Stampeders training camp:

Transactions

Add receiver Eddie Montgomery

Disable defensive back Willie Byrd

Injuries

Offensive lineman Jesse Newman (knee), offensive lineman Derek Armstrong (tricep) and defensive lineman Pat MacDonald (shoulder) are out indefinitely.

Defensive back Crance Clemons, defensive back Chijioke Onyenegecha, defensive back Willie Byrd, linebacker Shannon James, defensive back Julian Battle, defensive end Juwan Simpson and defensive end Terrence Patrick are day-to-day.

Upcoming schedule

Thursday, June 12: Practice from 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Media can scrum head coach/GM John Hufnagel and players on the field after practice. The Edmonton Eskimos don't arrive until Friday.

Friday, June 13: Pre-season opener against the Eskimos at McMahon Stadium. Kickoff is 7 p.m.

Visit Stampeders.com for a comprehensive roundup of the day and all Stamps news.

Stamps Sign Three

Eskimos Release Hollis

Ianni hopes for exciting summer

Eskimo Training Camp Notes - Day 11

Today's practice was accompanied by weird weather. The afternoon started with sunny skies, which then quickly turned black. Rain sent media, fans and some Eskimo staff seeking cover. The rain continued on for five minutes and was again replaced with sunny skies. While some people complained, injured DL Justin Cooper welcomed the rain saying he prefers it to the warm weather.

With Friday's first pre-season game against Calgary on everybody's mind, many rookies are looking forward to having a spot on the starting line-up for the game. There is one rookie who managed to get his first start today. Assistant Therapist Nate Hay finally got moved up from his "water boy" ranks to starter, quite literally. Nate got to blow the air horn which signals the beginning of warm-up and drills. After his inaugural "blow", Nate shouts to rookie DB Bradley Robinson, "That one was for you Brad!" Nate Hay will be replacing Terrill Lobo as Assistant Therapist as Terrill has taken a job as Head Athletic Therapist with the Oil Kings. Wide receiver Clarence Moore welcomed Hay in his new roll with enthusiasm after the horn went to start drills. "T.O (Terrill) is about to be out! We've got a new horn now! Whooo!"

Quotes:

Head Coach Danny Maciocia feels that Friday's pre-season game against Calgary is a great chance to rest some of the veterans and to see what the rookies can do. "I have a good feel for what Tucker does and KP brings and the healthy Kelly Campbell, what he can do. It just gives a chance to the Jamison's and Prator's of the world, the Challengers and see what they can do out there...and we're taking the same mindset with every other position really."

Offensive Line Coach Ronnie Vinklarek gets high praises from Danny Maciocia. Today, the Eskimo Head Coach told the media that Vinklarek is the best line coach he has ever been around. "He is well respected, he is a no nonsense kind of guy. He will work you hard. He takes care of his unit. He is well respected around the league," says Maciocia. "He is well balanced. He is dialed in and he can crack a joke every once in awhile. But if you don't get it done he will get after you and he doesn't have a problem calling you out in a group. There is clearly a respect for him and I'm sure the respect is mutual with him and his players. He has been a great addition here."

Releases: None

Injuries:

- Jason Tucker (back)

- Ron "Goldie" McClendon (quad)

- Adam Braidwood (knee)

- Kelly Campbell (quad)

- Justin Cooper (calf)

- Bradley Robinson (hamstring)

Tomorrow's Practice Schedule:

Thursday, June 12, 2008

Walk Thru

1:10 pm

Practice Field/Clarke Stadium

Players and coaches are available on-field to the media following the training session.

2008 Eskimo Training Camp returns to Clarke Stadium on Sunday, June 8 at 1pm. The team travels to Calgary for the first pre-season game on June 13 at 7:00pm and returns home for the second pre-season game on June 19 vs. Saskatchewan at 7:00pm. For more information on the Edmonton Eskimos visit our website at www.esks.com.

Blue Bombers release two from training camp roster

Fanfest Cancelled

Ianni hopes for exciting summer

Roughrider Training Camp - Day Eleven

The following is the Day 11 report from the 2008 Saskatchewan Roughrider Training Camp.

ROSTER MOVES

Add import defensive back Dre Dokes

INJURIES

RB Reggie Bradshaw (quad)

RB Henri Childs (groin)

RB Quentin Griffin (groin)

LB Maurice Lloyd (groin)

OL Jeremy O'Day (ankle)

QB Drew Tate (shoulder)

TODAY

The Green and White moved indoors to the University of Regina to avoid the weather conditions. The players held a light walk-thru in preparation for Friday's first exhibition game versus B.C.

TONIGHT

Players will meet with their positional coaches and continue learning the playbook at Luther College in advance of Friday's pre-season game versus B.C.

TOMORROW

Players and coaches will be back at Mosaic Stadium for a walk-thru which should run from 9:00 am to 10:30 am.

Revs embrace return to normalcy

Lions kick off 2008 with Rookie Camp

Blue Bombers release two from training camp roster

Aeros Update

Roughrider Training Camp - Day #4

Seven Teams Can Clinch Playoff Berths in Week 16

NEW YORK - The Cleveland Gladiators (8-6), Colorado Crush (4-10), Georgia Force (9-5), Grand Rapids Rampage (4-10), New Orleans VooDoo (8-6), New York Dragons (8-6) and Utah Blaze (5-10) can clinch playoff berths this weekend as the Mitsubishi Motors Drive to ArenaBowl XXII New Orleans eyes the finish line.

The Chicago Rush (10-4) can clinch home-field advantage throughout the American Conference playoffs with a win or a San Jose SaberCats (9-5) loss. The SaberCats can clinch their third consecutive Mitsubishi Motors Western Division title with a win or an Arizona Rattlers loss.

The Philadelphia Soul (11-3) can clinch the Mitsubishi Motors Eastern Division title and home-field advantage throughout the National Conference playoffs with a win coupled with a Dallas Desperados (11-3) loss.

Following is each team's postseason-clinching scenario for Week 16:

The CHICAGO RUSH clinch home-field advantage in the American Conference with the following scenarios:

1) Chicago Rush win

2) San Jose SaberCats loss

The COLORADO CRUSH clinch an American Conference playoff spot with the following scenario:

1) Colorado Crush win + Grand Rapids Rampage loss + Kansas City Brigade loss

The GRAND RAPIDS RAMPAGE clinch an American Conference playoff spot with the following scenario:

1) Grand Rapids Rampage win + Los Angeles Avengers loss

The SAN JOSE SABERCATS clinch the Western Division and a first-round bye with the following scenarios:

1) San Jose SaberCats win

2) Arizona Rattlers loss

The UTAH BLAZE clinch an American Conference playoff spot with the following scenarios:

1) Colorado Crush loss

2) Grand Rapids Rampage loss

The PHILADELPHIA SOUL clinch the Eastern Division and home-field advantage in the National Conference with the following scenario:

1) Philadelphia Soul win + Dallas Desperados loss

The GEORGIA FORCE clinch the Mitsubishi Motors Southern Division and a first-round bye with the following scenario:

1) Georgia Force win

The GEORGIA FORCE clinch a National Conference playoff spot with the following scenarios:

1) Tampa Bay Storm loss

2) New York Dragons loss

3) New Orleans VooDoo + Cleveland Gladiators loss

The NEW YORK DRAGONS clinch a National Conference playoff spot with the following scenarios:

1) New York Dragons win + Orlando Predators loss

2) New York Dragons win + Tampa Bay Storm loss

3) New York Dragons win + New Orleans VooDoo loss by two-or-more points + Georgia Force win + Cleveland Gladiators win

The NEW ORLEANS VOODOO clinch a National Conference playoff spot with the following scenario:

1) New Orleans VooDoo win

The CLEVELAND GLADIATORS clinch a National Conference playoff spot with the following scenarios:

1) Cleveland Gladiators win + Tampa Bay Storm loss + Georgia Force win

2) Cleveland Gladiators win + Tampa Bay Storm loss + Orlando Predators loss

Desperados WR/DB Earns Honor for the Second Consecutive Week

Marlies Announce Dates For Western Conference Finals

Bus Into The Wolves Den With The IceHogs

Former American Idol Contestant To Perform At Silverbacks Home Finale

Monday, June 9, 2008

America's Heroes Night at the Amarillo Civic Center for Dusters game

AMARILLO, Texas The Amarillo Dusters take the field at home again this Saturday, battling the Rio Grande Valley Dorados. This weekend is also Flag Day and Father's Day, so the Dusters are honoring America's Heroes at the game, including military, police, firefighters, dads, and many other community heroes.

"It is so important as a professional sports team to do what we can in honoring the men and women that make it possible to do what we do every day," said Dusters vice president, Joe Morgado.

At halftime of the game, military personnel will be having an enlistment ceremony to swear in new recruits. There will also be many prizes and giveaways throughout the night.

The Amarillo Civic Center is also will also be selling $.50 hot dogs at the concession stands.

"The $.50 hot dogs are back by popular demand and available while they last," said Amarillo Civic Center director, Kris Miller. "In the past, we have gone through 2500 to 3000 hot dogs!"

From 4:30 to 5:30 on Saturday, dads and kids with game tickets are invited to come onto the field with a few of the Dusters and play catch.

"We are giving this very unique opportunity to be out on the field with the team before the game. It is something that we hope parents and kids will treasure as a special memory," Morgado said. "Football, family, and $.50 hot dogs; what more could a dad ask for on Father's Day!"

Tickets start at just $16 and are on sale now. Reserve yours by calling the Dusters Box Office at 806.350.7277 or visit www.dustersfootball.com or stop by any Panhandle Tickets outlet.

Dusters Food Drive With The High Plains Food Bank

Unlikely heroes shine for Columbus

United Indoor Football Week Fourteen Review

Omaha, NE - Week 14 brought some surprises as the United Indoor Football season is winding down. The conference races continue to be tight with just one week remaining in the regular season. The week saw the Ice slip past the Storm, the Rage beat the Bandits, the Extreme defeat the Beef and the Outlaws get a win over the Wild.

COLORADO 29, SIOUX FALLS 24

At Loveland, CO

The Colorado Ice slipped past the Sioux Falls Storm 29-24 Friday evening at the Budweiser Events Center. With the win, the teams split the two match-ups this season. Colorado was led by quarterback Garrett Mehl and a solid defensive effort. Mehl led the offense, tallying 209 yards of total offense (50 rushing and 159 passing) and had a hand in four total touchdowns (one rushing and three passing). The Ice's defense saw three players tally six tackles each while also tallying four tackles for loss, a sack, two interceptions, a pass break up and also blocked a kick. Sioux Falls was led by linebacker Mark Blackburn and quarterback Terrance Bryant. Blackburn led the defense with a team-high seven tackles and also broke up three passes. Bryant accumulated 153 yards of total offense (14 rushing and 142 passing) and threw for three touchdowns to lead the offense. In week 15, Colorado closes out their season by hosting Wichita while Sioux Falls battles with Bloomington at home.

BLOOMINGTON 64, OMAHA 43

At Bloomington, IL

The Bloomington Extreme defeated the Omaha Beef 64-43 Saturday evening at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum. With the win, the season series saw Omaha win two to Bloomington's one. The Extreme were led by quarterback Dusty Burk and their defense. Burk tallied 314 yards of total offense (75 rushing and 239 passing) and had a hand in eight of the team's nine touchdowns (three rushing and five passing). The Extreme's defense tallied two tackles for loss and two sacks while also breaking up a pass and recovering two fumbles. Leading the way for Omaha were defensive back Dustin Creager and quarterback James McNear. Creager made a team-high 11 tackles to lead the defense. On offense, McNear tallied 236 yards of total offense (22 rushing and 214 passing) while also throwing for four touchdowns. In week 15, Bloomington hits the road and will finish their season at Sioux Falls while Omaha hosts Sioux City.

RIVERCITY 41, SIOUX CITY 27

At Sioux City, IA

The RiverCity Rage went on the road and beat the Sioux City Bandits 41-27 Saturday evening at the Tyson Events Center. Leading the way for RiverCity were quarterback Ryan Maiuri and their defense. Maiuri tallied 129 yards of total offense (33 rushing and 96 passing) and had a hand in three total touchdowns (one rushing and two passing). The defense tallied four tackles for loss and one sack, forced two fumbles, recovered three, intercepted a pass and broke up two more. Leading the way for the Bandits were quarterback Chad Kapanui and defensive back John Zevenbergen. Kapanui completed 20 of 33 passes for 137 yards and a touchdown while also rushing for a touchdown. Zevenbergen made two tackles while also intercepting a pass and breaking up two more. In week 15, RiverCity finishes up at home by hosting Billings while Sioux City heads south to Omaha.

BILLINGS 58, WICHITA 31

At Wichita, KS

The Billings Outlaws earned a road win over the Wichita Wild 58-31 Saturday evening at the Kansas Coliseum. With the win, Billings won both match-ups played this season between the two teams. Billings was led by quarterback Chris Dixon and their defense. Dixon tallied 282 yards of total offense (75 rushing and 207 passing) and had a hand in seven touchdowns (one rushing and six passing). The Outlaws' defense tallied five tackles for loss and a sack, forced a fumble (recovered it), intercepted four passes and broke up two more. Wichita was led by running back John Randle and defensive back J.R. Webber. Randle tallied 184 all-purpose yards (32 rushing, 13 receiving and 139 kickoff returns). Webber made a team-high 10 tackles and had a tackle for loss while also forced two fumbles (recovered one, returning it 25 yards for a touchdown) and blocked a kick. In week 15, Billings hits the road to face RiverCity while Wichita travels to Colorado.

UIF STANDINGS

Bloomington 7-6 Sioux Falls 10-3

RiverCity 6-7 Billings 9-4

Sioux City 4-9 Omaha 9-4

Wichita 2-11 Colorado 5-8

At the conclusion of the UIF regular season and playoffs, the league's United Bowl champion will host the champion of the Intense Football League in the National Indoor Football Bowl Championship Game (NIBC) on July 26. The game is part of a two-year partnership between United Indoor Football and the Intense Football League. The two league champions will meet again in a second NIBC in 2009 at the home of the Intense Football League champion.

United Indoor Football is the premier indoor football league of North America and is committed to serving its teams and fans. Please contact the UIF league office with any comments, concerns or suggestions.