Esks going green, seeing red for Labour Day series

(Edmonton) The Edmonton Eskimos will sport a new look for a good cause on Monday in the Labour Day Classic and for The Rematch next Friday at Commonwealth Stadium. In celebration of the club's 60th season, the Esks will take to the field in a special edition green helmet that will feature the iconic double "E" logo and green facemask.. A limited number of helmets will be auctioned off online with the proceeds going to the Eskimo Women's Dinner in support of ovarian cancer research at the Lois Hole Hospital in Edmonton. .

Autographed helmets from Ricky Ray, A.J. Harris, Siddeeq Shabazz, Tristan Jackson, Kamau Peterson, Shannon Garrett, Dario Romero and Noel Prefontaine will be offered during the online auction which will begin Thursday, September 4.

Auction details to be announced Wednesday, September 3.

The Eskimos (5-3) travel to Calgary to face the Stampeders (5-3) on Monday, September 1st for the 2008 Labour Day Classic at McMahon Stadium. The two teams meet again in the Labour Day Rematch Friday, September 5th at Commonwealth Stadium. Kickoff at 7pm. 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.

Eskimo fans set new Purolator Tackle Hunger record

Sharks To Hold Sidewalk Sale On Saturday, May 17th

Eskimos release Keith Williams

Flames Prospects to Compete in Pre-Season Rookie Tournament

CFL Future Shop All-Star Voting Begins

Toronto, ON (August 29, 2008) - Beginning today, fans can log on to CFL.ca and futureshop.ca to vote for their favourite players through the CFL Future Shop All-Star Balloting program.

Last season, the CFL and Future Shop teamed-up to give fans the first-ever opportunity to vote for the division and CFL all-star teams.

Returning for its second season, the CFL's Senior Vice President of Marketing and Commercial Assets Rob Assimakopoulos says allowing fans to vote for all-stars is a great way for fans to interact with the CFL and its players.

"Fans of our league appreciate the opportunities they get to become part of not only the game, but the whole CFL experience, said Assimakopoulos. "In a year with so many standout performances, fans and the media will have some fun picking out this year's all stars.

Fans, alongside the Football Reporters of Canada (FRC) and eight CFL head coaches will vote to determine the East Division and West Division all-star teams, which will be announced on Monday, November 3, 2008. From the divisional all-stars, fans will then have a second opportunity to vote with the FRC and head coaches to determine the CFL All-Stars.

"Future Shop is excited to partner with the CFL for a second year to bring online, interactive All-Star fan balloting to the fans," said Anita Sehgal, Director of Customer Experience, Future Shop. "Many of our customers are huge sports fans and are enthusiastic participants of online fan voting."

The all-stars will be selected on the basis of a combined vote from fans and the football reporters of Canada. Fans are limited to one vote per day and can vote for as many positions as they wish.

The program also offers fans the chance to enter the CFL Future Shop All-Star Balloting contest, with prizes including CFL merchandise, Future Shop gift cards and a trip for two to the 96th Grey Cup.

The CFL Future Shop All-Star Balloting website was created and designed by Indusblue, a Toronto-based interactive marketing agency.

Chicago Rush National Anthem Contest Returns

Beckham leads All-Star fan voting

Tiger-Cats Sign Defensive Back

Hamilton, Ontario - The Hamilton Tiger-Cats announced today the signing of import defensive back Alan Zemaitis.

Zemaitis, a 6-2, 202-pound native of Rochester, New York was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fourth round (122nd overall) of the 2006 NFL Draft after a four-year collegiate career at Penn State. During his time with the Nittany Lions, Zematis recorded 181 tackles (130 solo), 12 interceptions, 34 pass knockdowns, 5.5 tackles for losses, two fumble recoveries and two forced fumbles in 43 games, earning three consecutive All-Big Ten selections.

Zemaitis attended training camp with the Ticats earlier this year.

The Ticats also announced the team has released import quarterback Timmy Chang and non-import wide receiver O'Neil Wilson.

Ticats Kick-Off Rivalary Week

Red Bulls’ new faces get defensive

Be a fan, bring a can

The Calgary Stampeders are asking fans to help Calgarians in need at the Labour Day Classic.

The Stampeders will team up with the Calgary Inter-Faith Food Bank for the 18th annual Be A Fan, Bring A Can food drive on Monday, Sept. 1 when the Stamps play host to the Edmonton Eskimos. Fans are asked to bring non-perishable food items or cash donations to the game.

"The Labour Day Classic food drive continues to play an important role in our goal of not letting Calgarians go hungry," said Kristen Brown, development coordinator of community initiatives with the Calgary Inter-Faith Food Bank. "It has been a great partnership and we appreciate their effort."

The Be A Fan, Bring A Can food drive is led by wives and girlfriends of Stampeders coaches and players. They'll be at the McMahon Stadium gates on Monday, wearing their significant other's jersey and collecting the food and cash donations.

"This is a great initiative that brings the Stampeders football club and the community together to provide something substantial for the Food Bank," said club spokesperson Peni Hufnagel, wife of head coach/general manager John Hufnagel. "I'm proud to be involved with the program."

According to the Calgary Inter-Faith Food Bank, 87,212 Calgarians used the Food Bank to fill the basic need of food last year. Of those, 43 per cent were children. Last year, the drive raised $28,968 in food and cash donations, which increased the 17-year total to nearly $353,000.

For every dollar raised the Food Bank can distribute four dollars worth of food. Stamps fans are being asked to consider bringing down the following items, due to a current shortage at the Food Bank:

- Pasta sauce

- Juice

- Baby formula with iron

- Pasta

- Canned tomatoes

Game sponsor Homes By Avi has been contributing to the cause by collecting donations since Aug. 9 at their head office and all show home locations. Please don't forget to bring your can to the game.

Bus Into The Wolves Den With The IceHogs

Eskimo fans set new Purolator Tackle Hunger record

Sutil vindicates Mallya’s faith

Dusters Food Drive With The High Plains Food Bank

AFL Open Tryouts Begin September 6

NEW YORK - The search for new AFL talent begins on Saturday, September 6 as the Chicago Rush will host the first open tryout of the 2008 offseason.

Chicago joins Dallas (9/13), Orlando (9/13) and San Jose (9/20) as one of four teams who will hold open tryouts in September. Coaching staffs will evaluate players in combine exercises such as the 40-yard dash, bench press, shuttle runs and position drills.

Three teams will host multiple open tryouts with the New Orleans VooDoo hosting five in various regional locations throughout the southeastern United States.

New Orleans head coach MIKE NEU has invited five players to training camps from open tryouts during the VooDoo's four-year history.

"It has always been my philosophy to not overlook anyone and evaluate as many players as I possibly can," remarked Neu. "These five open tryouts will give these players a great chance to be evaluated and get noticed by our coaching staff."

For the most up-to-date schedule of open tryouts, please visit www.arenafootball.com.

NFL Comes Knocking for Two 2008 Soul Players

Ice Mice To Hold Tryouts For 2008-09 Season

UIF teams making personnel decisions in preparation for 2009 season

Omaha, NE - Several teams in United Indoor Football have made key personnel decisions that will help their team as the league finalizes the merger with the Intense Football League to form the Indoor Football League (IFL), which is scheduled to begin play in 2009.

Billings Outlaws - Wide receiver Robert Reed has retired after a storied playing career and will now serve as Offensive Coordinator of the team. To replace Reed, the Outlaws made a trade with the Bloomington Extreme to acquire two-time All-Star James Walton. Also in the trade, the Outlaws received linebacker Brian Houston and sent Bloomington defensive lineman Eugene Phillips and defensive back Courtney Miller. In addition, the Outlaws have named Shari Woodard Vice President of Corporate Communications.

Colorado Ice - Head Coach Collins Sanders has added the duties of General Manager to his responsibilities. Sanders, no stranger to coaching indoor football, has served as the Ice's head man since the team's expansion 2007 season and lead the team to a 12-18 record.

Omaha Beef - Dustin Talacko has returned to Omaha and the Beef after an eight-month absence. Talacko will serve as team Vice President. From the team's inception to 2007, he served in a variety of roles for the team. Talacko began in 2000 as a ball boy and rose through the ranks, serving as General Manager for the 2007 season.

RiverCity Rage - Art Clarkson has been named team President and Jeff Vernetti has been hired to work in media relations. Clarkson has worked in minor league sports for 30 years and is no stranger to indoor football as he previously served as owner of the Tennessee Valley/Rock River Raptors of United Indoor Football before selling in 2007. Vernetti is no stranger to the team as he served as the team's radio announcer for the 2008 season. The team also has named Karen Swanner as their Director of Sales and Marketing.

Wichita Wild - At a press conference on Tuesday, August 20th, the Wild named Ken Matous as Head Coach and James Bain as Assistant General Manager. Matous comes to Wichita from the Arena Football League's Columbus Destroyers where he served as offensive coordinator, special teams coordinator and director of player personnel. The Kansas native has coached at the college and professional levels (AFL and af2). Matous has a Bachelor's degree in Social Studies Education from Western Colorado State University and a Master's degree in Sport Administration from Wichita State University. Bain comes to Wichita from Sioux Falls where he served as Director of Media and Public Relations for the Storm for the past two seasons. In addition, the Volga, South Dakota, native has a Bachelor's degree in Speech Communication from Southwest Minnesota State University.

The UIF's existing eight teams and the Intense Football League's existing nine teams will come together as the IFL and will hold their inaugural league meetings in September 11-13 in Omaha, Nebraska. Items on the agenda include: voting on existing and expansion team applications for the 2009 and 2010 seasons (if teams/cities are interested, they have until September 5th to contact UIF Executive Director Paul Aaron); holding sales and marketing seminars among other items. The template for the new IFL has been agreed upon. The 17 teams will own and operate the league, set the dues and services and hire league personnel.

Assistant Coach Rod Miller to Rejoin Rampage Next Season

Blue Bombers Fill Media Relations Role

Aeros GM Tom Lynn, email your questions now

RiverCity Rage Appoint Art Clarkson New Team President

Hockey transactions

Ticats Kick-Off Rivalary Week

Hamilton, Ontario - Today, in honour of one of the oldest rivalries in professional sports, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats kick-off Rivalry Week with the announcement of the All-Rivalry Team, as they prepare to battle against the Toronto Argonauts at Ivor Wynne Stadium on Monday, September 1 in the annual Labour Day Classic.

The battle for football supremacy in Southern Ontario has continued to be contested since their first game against each other back on October 18, 1873. The next chapter in this struggle pits the Toronto Argonauts against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats for one of the most anticipated games of the season.

No one understands just what this rivalry means better than the players who have battled for both the sides. The All-Rivalry Team consists of players who have donned both the Black and Gold and Double Blue during their time in our league. The 10 players selected to the All-Rivalry team are:

- Damon Allen

- Tommy Joe Coffey

- Joe Montford

- Ellison Kelley

- Mike O'Shea

- Mike Morreale

- Paul Bennett

- Troy Davis

- Calvin Tiggle

- Walt Zaltylny

These stars will be in attendance for the Labour Day Classic and many exciting events leading up to the game, including a pre-game autograph session on Monday, September 1 from 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Exclusively during this time, fans can fill out a contest ballot for the Ticats Kick For $5K Contest where they will be entered in a draw that will see one lucky winner have their name selected to attempt a field goal for $5000 at halftime of the Ticats September 6 game against the B.C. Lions. The winner will be announced during the Labour Day Classic.

While the Ticats/Argos rivalry has become one of the most heated football events on the CFL calendar on the field, a tradition started by former Ticats owner Harold Ballard has also made the rivalry a fiery battle throughout both organizations for almost three decades. In 1979, Harold Ballard and Wally Zaltylny created a trophy known as the Ballard Trophy which was awarded each year to the team that won the regular season series between the Ticats and Argos. In 2003, Ticats' owners Dave McDonald and George Grant last presented the Ballard Trophy to Argos' owner Sherwood Schwarz at Skydome in Toronto. With two regular season wins over the Argos already this season, the Ticats look to reclaim the cup since last winning it back in 2001. The Ballard Trophy remains in Toronto's possession until its highly-anticipate return to Hamilton.

The Hamilton Tiger-Cats and Labour Day have been synonymous since the team was first formed in 1950, when the Tigers of the ORFU and Wildcats from the Big Four merged and the "modern" era of Hamilton football began. With the exception of 1995, the Tiger-Cats have played on their home field on Labour Day Monday every year since their inception. Of the 57 Labour Day Classics played since then, 39 have been played against the Toronto Argonauts where the Tiger-Cats have recorded 27 wins, 11 losses and one tie.

For tickets or more information visit www.ticats.ca or call (905) 547-CATS.

Argos Face Als for Friday Night Football

Leos add Kahlil Hill to practice roster

Eskimos look for a repeat win against Toronto in game two of the back-to-back series

High stakes give SuperClasico spice

NFL Comes Knocking for Two 2008 Soul Players

WR Larry Brackins and OL Phil Bogle both re-signed with the Soul for the 2009 season, but the two have been placed on the "other league exempt list" as they have signed with NFL teams.

Brackins signed with the New York Jets on August 19. He appeared in 15 regular season games and three post-season games and had a total of 107 receptions for 1395 yards and 29 touchdowns during the regular season. In the post-season he had 26 catches for 319 yards and eight touchdowns. Brackins was a former 2005 fifth round Tampa Bay Buccaneers draft pick out of Pear River Community College and returns to the NFL for the first time since joining the Soul in 2007.

Bogle was signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on August 20. The two-time, first-team, All-

Arena performer on the offensive line was a finalist for the AFL 2008 Lineman of the Year. He appeared in all 16 regular-season games and all three post-season games for the Soul. As an eligible receiver, he helped the Soul offense during the regular season with seven catches for 60 yards and six touchdowns. Bogle played with the San Diego Chargers in 2003 and saw action in 16 games, with 13 starts. He played in the NFL the next couple of seasons, going from San Diego to the Cleveland Browns (2005), to Tampa Bay (2005, 2006) before being released before the 2006 season. Since joining the Buccaneers this season, Bogle has seen time in one pre-season game so far.

SOUL ROSTER FOR 2009 SEASON

The Arena Football League's re-signing period came to a close on August 10th for all teams. With a core group of players resigned or slated to return through two-year contracts, the Soul laid the foundation of the 2009 season. Currently under contract are: WR Chris Jackson, C Mike Mabry, OL Martin Bibla, DL Bryan Save, DB/KR/WR Mike Brown, DL Rod Davis, WR Kenny Henderson, K Connor Hughes, DB/KR Rob Keefe, DL Gabe Nyenhuis, OL Wes Ours and OL/DL Clifton Smith.

RE-SIGNINGS AROUND THE LEAGUE

The Soul weren't the only ones trying to re-sign as many key players as possible. Notable re-signings around the AFL are QB Jeff Garcia (New York), WR T.T. Toliver (Orlando), QB James MacPherson (Grand Rapids), Los Angeles' WR/DB Kevin Ingram and FB/LB Lonnie Ford and Chicago's QB Russ Michna and WR Donovan Morgan.

BRACKINS RETURNS TO PHILLY

Former Soul receiver, Larry Brackins, returns to Philly for the first time since joining the NFL when he signed with the New York Jets. The Jets take on the Philadelphia Eagles Thursday, August 28th at 6:30 p.m. at Lincoln Financial Field. The game will be broadcast on 6ABC and can be heard on 94 WYSP and 610 WIP.

FREE AGENCY SLATED FOR OCTOBER

The Arena Football League announced today that free agency for the 2009 season will begin on October 15. Teams will be allowed to contact players starting October 1, with signing beginning October 15. There are currently 171 AFL players available for free agency.

COACHES VISIT NFL TRAINING CAMPS

Now that the Soul's season has come to an end, the coaching staff has been taking trips to different NFL training camps. Over the past month, Head Coach Bret Munsey and OL/DL Line coach Mickey Mays have visited the Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets, and Buffalo Bills to name a few.

SOUL TO HOLD OPEN TRYOUTS THIS FALL

The Soul are in the process of solidifying dates and times for open tryouts to join the ArenaBowl XXII Champions for the 2009 season. The Soul are holding tryouts for every position while many around the area will be competing to become their very own Cinderella story. More information to follow once details are confirmed.

SEASON TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR A SPECIAL PRICE

To celebrate the Soul's ArenaBowl XXII 59-56 win over the San Jose SaberCats, the team is offering season tickets packages for the 2009 season for only $59. Tickets can be purchased by calling 888-PHIL-AFL.

Pittsburgh Penguins Re-Sign Connor James

Soul’s Fifth Annual “Soul Summer Slam” This Saturday

Soul Lineman Phil Bogle Signs with Buccaneers

Soul WR Brackins Signed by New York Jets

Pittsburgh Re-Signs Connor James

Eskimos release Keith Williams

Edmonton) The Edmonton Eskimos today released rookie import defensive back Keith Williams.

In six games, Williams recorded 36 defensive tackles, one special teams tackle, one interception and one pass knockdown.

The Eskimos (5-3) travel to Calgary to face the Stampeders (5-3) on Monday, September 1st at McMahon Stadium. The two teams meet again in the Labour Day Rematch Friday, September 5th at Commonwealth Stadium. Kickoff at 7pm.

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 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.

Williams test ’shark-fin’ engine cover

Williams not writing off season

Prator back in Edmonton

Flames Prospects to Compete in Pre-Season Rookie Tournament

2008 ArenaCup preview

SPOKANE, WA - This Monday, August 25, the American Conference Champion Tennessee Valley Vipers will battle the National Conference Champion Spokane Shock in the 2008 ArenaCup, the championship game of arenafootball2 (af2). Monday night's title game kicks off at 7:00 PM PT at the Spokane Arena in Spokane, Wash.

The following is a quick game preview that features a profile of the head coaches as well as a breakdown of important position players that will be making an impact in Monday night's showdown.

HEAD COACHES

Dean Cokinos (Tennessee Valley) - Cokinos, in his first season with the Vipers (2nd af2 season overall), guided the team to a 10-6 regular season record, three playoff wins and the team's first ArenaCup berth since the league's inaugural 2000 season. This will be Cokinos' first appearance in an af2 title game. His career record currently stands at 18-16 overall.

Adam Shackleford (Spokane) - Shackleford has had an impressive two-year start to his af2 head coaching career in Spokane, accumulating a current overall record of 30-6. The Shock have also won two consecutive West Division titles. This will be Shackleford's second appearance in an ArenaCup final but first as a head coach. He was an assistant coach/offensive coordinator with Louisville in 2005 when the Fire lost to Memphis, 63-41, in Bossier-Shreveport, La.

Quarterbacks

Kevin Eakin (Tennessee Valley) - Eakin, who earned his first start for Tennessee Valley in Week 7, has been a solid performer under center in his first season for the Vipers. In 10 regular season starts, the rookie from Fordham guided the team to an 8-2 record. Eakin finished as the team leader in passing (239-of-380 passing, 2,515 yard, 51 TDs, 7 INTs) and also led the squad in rushing yards (185; 3 rush TDs). He has continued his steady play in the postseason, guiding Tennessee Valley into the title game by completing 61.4 percent of his passes for 683 yards with 10 touchdowns and five interceptions.

Nick Davila (Spokane) - Davila also got his first start for Spokane in Week 7 of the 2008 season. In 11 starts, the rookie from Cincinnati led the Shock to a 10-1 record, throwing 64 TDs against just nine interceptions. He ended the regular season ranked third in passer rating (119.2), fourth in completion percentage (67.0) and tenth in touchdown passes (66). As good as he was in the regular season, Davila has been even more impressive in the playoffs. In the team's three victories, he's thrown for 742 yards with 16 TD passes and just one interception. He has also rushed for two scores.

WIDE RECEIVERS

Alonzo Nix, Maurice Brown, Gary Elliott (Tennessee Valley) - Nix has emerged in the postseason as Eakin's favorite target. He had one of the best individual receiving efforts in af2 playoff history last Saturday as the Vipers defeated Manchester, 45-35, in the American Conference Championship. The rookie receiver from Tennessee-Chattanooga had 10 catches for 197 yards and three TDs. His 197 yards receiving ranks as the second-highest single game total in postseason history. Through three playoff games, Nix is the Vipers' leading receiver with 33 catches for 411 yards and five TDs. He ranked second on the team during the regular season in receptions (96), receiving yards (1,105) and receiving TDs (23). Nix picked up the pace in the absence of Maurice Brown, who missed last week's game due to injury. Brown led the team in receiving during the regular season with 109 catches for 1,305 yards with 27 TDs. Elliott (51-535-12 TDs) is another dangerous pass catcher who should factor in the Vipers passing attack.

Raul Vijil, Andy Olson, Patrick Bugg (Spokane) - Vijil, who has been in the af2 for three years (all with Spokane), has been one of the league's top playmakers in 2008. The Eastern Washington alum finished fourth in the league in scoring (252 points), tied for third in total touchdowns (42) and tied for fourth in receiving touchdowns (35). He also led the Shock in receiving yards (1,212). He is the unquestioned leader of the receiving group. Olson, a rookie from Western Washington, led Spokane in receptions in his first campaign with 112 during the regular season and finished with 1,077 receiving yards and 20 TDs. Bugg, another rookie, has also been impressive of late with 10 catches for 150 yards and four scores. During the regular season, the rookie from Eastern Kentucky finished third on the Shock in TD receptions (15) and fourth in receptions (34) and receiving yards (475).

DEFENSIVE BACKS

Demetrius Derico, Desmond Foster, Travis Blanchard, Darren Garrigan (Tennessee Valley) - Derico has been the team's top defensive back in the regular season and playoffs. The rookie from Alabama State recorded team-bests in total tackles (79), interceptions (9) and pass breakups (17). Foster, who finished second in tackles (66.5) and tied for second in interceptions (3) during the regular season, has stepped up his game in the playoffs with a team-high four INTs. He was a big part of the team's American Conference Championship win a week ago by intercepting three passes from Manchester QB Brian Jones. Garrigan and Blanchard are also capable defenders who will provide support along the back line for the Vipers. Garrigan has 15.5 total tackles in the postseason with five pass breakups while Blanchard has recorded seven total stops with one interception, five pass breakups and two fumble recoveries.

Sergio Gilliam, Nygel Rogers, Roshawn Marshall (Spokane) - Gilliam had a tremendous first campaign for the Shock. The rookie from Clemson set the league record for interceptions in a season with 16, three of which he returned for touchdowns. Gilliam got off to a fast start in 2008 by recording three interceptions in each of his first two games (WK1 - May 30 at Green Bay, WK2 - April 5 vs. Stockton). He earned league recognition as the ADT Defensive Player of the Week after both outings for his stellar individual performances. Gilliam also led the af2 with 41 total passes defended (16 INTs, 25 pass breakups) this season. Gilliam, who ranked fourth on the team with 50.5 total tackles (45 solo, 11 asst), was recently named to the National Conference All-af2 First Team. Gilliam has continued to play well in the playoffs with four more interceptions, 6.5 tackles and four pass breakups. Rogers led the Shock in tackles in the regular season (83.5) and also leads the club in total stops in the playoffs (18). Marshall was also a factor with six interceptions in 12 regular season games played. He has picked off two more in the postseason as well.

RUNNING THREATS

Travis Blanchard, Kevin Eakin (Tennessee Valley) - Blanchard and Eakin are the two top running options for the Vipers. Blanchard, despite playing on defense primarily, is a sneaky strong runner who has been utilized near the goal line in 2008. The veteran has come through all season with a team-best 17 rushing scores overall, 13 in the regular season and four in the postseason. Eakin led the squad in rushing yards (185) during the regular season.

Katon Bethay, Nick Davila (Spokane) - Bethay led the Shock in rushing yards in 2008 with 119 while Davila was the team leader in rushing scores with eight. Both players have continued their success on the ground in the postseason as well. Bethay has recorded team playoff highs in rushing yards (90) and rushing touchdowns (4) while Davila ranks second in rushing yards (43) and rushing TDs (2).

STRONG LINEMEN

Eric Scott, Terrance Ford, Rico Reese (Tennessee Valley) - Tennessee Valley has one of the strongest groups of defensive lineman in the af2. Third in the league in sacks with a total of 45, the Vipers group of big men up front is led by DL Eric Scott who recorded 17.5 sacks in the regular season (2nd in af2). Scott earned All-af2 First Team honors. Teammate Terrance Ford, another feared pass rusher for the Vipers, earned a spot on the All-af2 Second Team after recording 12 tackles for loss and 10 sacks. Reese (4.0 sacks) is another lineman to watch for Tennessee Valley. The group has continued to dominate the opposition in the postseason, recording 14 sacks in three games (4.67 per game).

Devon Parks, Harrison Nikolao, Rico Ochoa, Kyle Young, Ryan Belcher (Spokane) - The group of Spokane Shock offensive and defensive linemen boast two All-af2 First Teamers (Parks - DL, Belcher - OL) and two Second Team stars (Young - OL, Ochoa - C). Parks is the team's top pass rusher with 15.5 sacks during the regular season with two more in the playoffs. Belcher (6-4, 328 pounds) is the second largest player on the team behind Ochoa. The veteran center, in his sixth af2 season (third with Spokane) owns the top honor at 6-3, 340 pounds. The Shock offensive line only allowed 16 sacks on the season, good for seventh best in the league.

LINEBACKERS

Rajohn Myles, Travis Blanchard (Tennessee Valley) - All-Ironman Team member Travis Blanchard (3 INTs) and Rajohn Myles (8.5 sacks) anchor a defense that is one of the best in af2. Blanchard has one more interception in the playoffs while Myles has added two sacks. Both third-year players, Blanchard and Myles have contributed in a big way for the vicious Vipers defense.

Lee Foliaki, Kevin McCullough (Spokane) - International player Lee Foliaki has been a star on the Spokane Shock defense as the Mack Linebacker, recording 2.5 sacks and 59 tackles in the regular season. LB Kevin McCullough has been a great resource at the Jack Linebacker position for the Shock recording five picks and 62.5 tackles on the season. Together the Shock linebackers have recorded 32.5 tackles, one sack and three interceptions, contributing a large portion to the Shock's defensive success in the playoffs.

KICK RETURN SPECIALISTS

Gary Elliott, Travis Blanchard (Tennessee Valley) - WR/DBs Gary Elliott and Travis Blanchard have both handled the kick return duties for Tennessee Valley in 2008. They have averaged a combined 19.1 yards per kickoff return. In the playoffs, Blanchard has been the main return man, returning nine kickoffs for 163 yards (18.1 yards per return). Always dangerous with the ball, Blanchard has made a habit of setting up the offense with good field position after a run back.

Raul Vijil (Spokane) - Vijil's two kickoff return touchdowns in the regular season for the Shock helped solidify Vijil as a top return man in the league. The All-af2 First Team receiver averaged 21.2 yards per return and totaled 1,248 yards. In his third season with the Shock, Vijil's experience and playmaking abilities will be critical to Spokane's charge in the championship game.

KICKERS

Nick Hayes (Tennessee Valley) - Hayes, a veteran in his third season, had his best campaign in 2008 for the Vipers. The All-af2 Second Team performer led the league in points scored by kickers with 141 overall. He also ranked in the Top-5 in field goals made (4th - 13) and extra points made (3rd - 102). He also ranked seventh in extra point accuracy, converting on nearly 88 percent of his attempts (87.9; 102-of-116). His longest field goal of the season was a 51-yarder in the regular season. He has also kicked well in the postseason, connecting on 16-of-18 extra points and 1-of-3 field goals.

Brian Jackson (Spokane) - Jackson, a rookie from Ball State, had a strong first season with the Shock. He ranked second in the league in extra points made (106) and finished with 124 points. He also ranked among the league leaders in extra point accuracy (7th - 89.1 percent) and made six of his 13 field goal attempts during the regular season. Jackson has continued to kick well in the postseason with 32 points scored on 3-of-5 field goals and 23-of-26 extra points.

2008 ARENACUP TO BE TELEVISED NATIONALLY ON COMCAST SPORTSNET FAMILY OF NETWORKS

The 2008 ArenaCup championship game will be televised nationally on the Comcast SportsNet family of networks for the third year in a row and will be shown on the following Comcast Sportsnet channels, including live broadcasts that include coverage areas in Huntsville, Ala. (Channel 66 in Huntsville, Ala. - home of the Tennessee Valley Vipers) and Spokane, Wash. (Channel 78 in Spokane, Wash. - home of the Spokane Shock). Viewers should check local listings for broadcast times in their area.

CSS: Live - includes Huntsville, Ala. (Monday 8/25 - 10p-1a ET - Channel 66)

Delay - All Others (Tuesday 8/26 - 1-4p ET)

Delay - Reair (Saturday 8/30 - 1-4p ET)

CSN West: Live - includes Spokane, Wash. (Monday 8/25 - 7-9:30p PT - Channel 78)

CSN Philadelphia: Delay (Wednesday 8/27 - 1:30-4a ET)

CSN New England: Delay (Tuesday 8/26 - 12-3p ET)

The league is also working on securing additional broadcast outlets throughout the country.

Fans can also view the game at home or in their favorite local sports bar or restaurant that has access to a satellite dish receiver that receives KU band transmissions. Media outlets interested in acquiring game highlights are also encouraged to utilize the following satellite coordinates:

ArenaCup9 satellite coordinates:

AMC 5 - K08H Channel A (9Mhz)

Uplink: 14212.5 MHz (V)

Downlink: 11912.5 MHz (H)

2008 ArenaCup also available online via af2TV & NiFTyTV

Thanks to the power of NFT's patented online broadcasting technology, fans across the globe will be able to bring all the action of Monday night's ArenaCup between Spokane and Tennessee Valley right to their home computer or laptop AT NO CHARGE. The af2 title game, which will be played on Monday, August 25 at 7:00 p.m. PT (10:00 p.m. ET) in Spokane, Wash., will be available on af2.com. Interested viewers should follow the advertisement to af2TV, download the FREE player and register your information.

Vipers Reach ArenaCup with 45-35 win over Manchester

IceHogs name Bill Peters as eighth head coach

Blanchard, Nix and Foliaki Earn Conference Championship Honors

Americans, KVEW-TV Announce New Three-Year Partnership

Wilkes-Barre/Scranton defeat Wolves 68-50

Lions team up with Tim Hortons for fifth-annual Timbits Camp

(Vancouver) The BC Lions Football Club is pleased to announce the 2008 edition of Timbits Camp is completely booked with almost 450 registered participants.

Set to take place at the team's Surrey Practice Facility on Saturday, August 23rd from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, Timbits Camp allows kids between the ages of six and twelve to get up close and personal with their gridiron heroes as Lions players run them through numerous drills.

Registrants in the camp will receive a free t-shirt, tour of the locker room, and beverage courtesy of Tim Hortons, in addition to sharpening their football skills.

Sunday, August 23rd

Where: BC Lions Practice Facility

Address: 10605 - 135th Street, Surrey, BC

Time: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 pm (10:00 a.m. registration)

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

Lions Secure Four Members of Class of 2008

Mike Knuble and Justin Abdelkader Special Guests at Griffins’ Annual Youth Hockey Camp

Lions kick off 2008 with Rookie Camp

Lions release five

2008 ArenaCup to be televised nationally on Comcast SportsNet's family of networks

SPOKANE, WA - The 2008 ArenaCup, the championship game of arenafootball2 (af2), will be televised nationally on the Comcast SportsNet family of networks for the third year in a row, it was announced today. The ArenaCup will be played this Monday, August 25 at 7:00 PM PT (10:00 ET) at Spokane Arena in Spokane, Wash. The American Conference Champion Tennessee Valley Vipers (13-6) tackle the National Conference Champion Spokane Shock (18-1) for the honor of being called the 2008 af2 Champions.

"We're very pleased to have our national championship game televised on Comcast SportsNet's family of networks," said af2 President Jerry Kurz. "By partnering with Comcast SportsNet we are able to reach key sports markets across the country, spotlight the exciting sport of Arena Football, and showcase the Spokane Valley area. This gives our many loyal fans across the country that may not be able to see the game in person an opportunity to view the game from home."

The game will be shown on the following Comcast Sportsnet channels, including live broadcasts that include coverage areas in Huntsville, Ala. (home of the Tennessee Valley Vipers) and Spokane, Wash. (home of the Spokane Shock). Viewers should check local listings for broadcast times in their area.

CSS: Live - Huntsville, Ala. (Monday 8/25 - 10p-1a ET)

Delay - All Others (Tuesday 8/26 - 1-4p ET)

Delay - Reair (Saturday 8/30 - 1-4p ET)

CSN West: Live - includes Spokane, Wash. (Monday 8/25 - 7-9:30p PT)

CSN Philadelphia: Delay (Wednesday 8/27 - 1:30-4a ET)

CSN New England: Delay (Tuesday 8/26 - 12-3p ET)

The league is also working on securing additional broadcast outlets throughout the country.

Fans can also view the game at home or in their favorite local sports bar or restaurant that has access to a satellite dish receiver that receives KU band transmissions. Media outlets interested in acquiring game highlights are also encouraged to utilize the following satellite coordinates:

ArenaCup9 satellite coordinates:

AMC 5 - K08H Channel A (9Mhz)

Uplink: 14212.5 MHz (V)

Downlink: 11912.5 MHz (H)

2008 ArenaCup also available online via af2TV & NiFTyTV

Thanks to the power of NFT's patented online broadcasting technology, fans across the globe will be able to bring all the action of Monday night's ArenaCup between Spokane and Tennessee Valley right to their home computer or laptop AT NO CHARGE. The af2 title game, which will be played on Monday, August 25 at 7:00 p.m. PT (10:00 p.m. ET) in Spokane, Wash., will be available on af2.com. Interested viewers should follow the advertisement to af2TV, download the FREE player and register your information.

Blanchard, Nix and Foliaki Earn Conference Championship Honors

2008 Arenacup: Quick Hitters

Americans, KVEW-TV Announce New Three-Year Partnership

Vipers Reach ArenaCup with 45-35 win over Manchester

2008 Arenacup: Quick Hitters

HOME FIELD ADVANTAGE IN ARENACUP: After a neutral site played host to the last three ArenaCups, this year the league decided to move the championship game back to the venue of the participating team with the best overall record. In the af2's first five seasons when the highest seed hosted the league's championship event, the home team was a perfect 5-0. This year's hosts, the Spokane Shock, hope to run the home team's total ArenaCup record to 6-0. The Shock are 10-1 overall at Spokane Arena in 2008 (7-1 regular season, 3-0 playoffs). A closer look at the results of the first five ArenaCups is detailed below.

ArenaCup history (2000-2004, 2008)

Year Result Site

2000 QUAD CITY 68, Tenn. Valley 59 Moline, Ill.

2001 QUAD CITY 55, Richmond 51 Moline, Ill.

2002 PEORIA 65, Florida 47 Peoria, Ill.

2003 TULSA 58, Macon 40 Tulsa, Okla.

2004 FLORIDA 39, Peoria 26 Estero, Fla.

2008 ???? Spokane, Wash.

FIRST TIMERS: The 2008 ArenaCup Championship features two teams that will be making their second appearances in the af2 title game. Spokane and Tennessee Valley, however, are led by two coaches that have never been to an ArenaCup in a head coaching capacity. Shock Head Coach ADAM SHACKLEFORD has one appearance in an ArenaCup final as an assistant coach/offensive coordinator with the Louisville Fire in 2005. That year the Fire lost to Memphis, 63-41. Vipers Head Coach DEAN COKINOS is making his first ArenaCup appearance in any capacity.

af2TV & NiFTyTV ANNOUNCE "ONLINE VIEWERS OF THE YEAR": The arenafootball2 league (af2) and Network Foundation Technologies (NFT) are pleased to announce that LARRY WEST (Louisville, Ky.) and MICA DAVIS (Tigard, Ore.) have been named the "Online Viewers of the Year." West and Davis, as "Click, Connect & View Your Way to ArenaCup9" Sweepstakes Grand Prize winners, will receive an exciting prize package which includes ArenaCup9 VIP game tickets and tickets to all events such as the Awards Party, Schutt President's Tailgate and Postgame Party. West is a dedicated fan of the Louisville Fire while Davis is a proud backer of the Stockton Lightning. The winners also receive full travel accommodations, which includes roundtrip airfare for themselves and a guest, transportation to and from Spokane Airport and a 3-day, 2-night stay at the Davenport Hotel in downtown Spokane, Wash. af2TV & NiFTyTV created the "Click, Connect & View Your Way to ArenaCup9" Sweepstakes in late May. The special promotion was designed to reward fans 21-and-older who downloaded the af2TV player and completed the necessary information form on their way to enjoying af2 games on their computers.

WATCH 2008 ARENACUP on NiFTyTV - MONDAY, AUGUST 25: Thanks to the power of NFT's patented online broadcasting technology, fans across the globe will be able to bring all the action of Monday night's ArenaCup between Spokane and Tennessee Valley right to their home computer or laptop AT NO CHARGE. The af2 title game, which will be played on Monday, August 25 at 7:00 p.m. PT (10:00 p.m. ET) in Spokane, Wash., will be available on af2.com. Interested viewers should follow the advertisement to af2TV, download the FREE player and register your information.

NIX NEARED PLAYOFF RECEIVING YARD MARK: Tennessee Valley WR ALONZO NIX enjoyed one of the best individual receiving efforts in af2 playoff history last Saturday as the Vipers defeated Manchester, 45-35, in the American Conference Championship. The rookie receiver from Tennessee-Chattanooga was a force in the win with 10 catches for 197 yards and three touchdowns. His 197 yards receiving ranks as the second-highest single game total in postseason history. Through three playoff games, Nix is the Vipers' leading receiver with 33 catches for 411 yards and five TDs. He ranked second on the team during the regular season in receptions (96), receiving yards (1,105) and receiving TDs (23).

SPOKANE NEAR SINGLE-SEASON WIN MARK: If the Shock claim victory in the ArenaCup final against Tennessee Valley on Monday, Spokane will tie the 2000 Quad City Steamwheelers for most wins in a single af2 season (including playoffs) with 19 overall.

FAVORITES MOVE ON: For the second straight season, both home teams (Tennessee Valley and Spokane) won to advance to the ArenaCup. From 2000-06 at least one home team lost in the conference finals.

af2 ALUM MARQUIS FLOYD SIGNS WITH SEATTLE SEAHAWKS: MARQUIS FLOYD, who was a standout defensive back in the af2 for the Tennessee Valley Vipers (2004) and Rio Grande Valley Dorados (2005), signed a free agent contract with the Seattle Seahawks last week and is now in their training camp vying for one of the defensive back slots on the final roster. Floyd (6-2, 192, West Georgia) has played the last three years with the San Jose SaberCats of the Arena Football League. He earned first-team All-Arena honors after placing second in the AFL with a team-high 10 interceptions. He added 15 pass breakups, three forced fumbles and 79.0 tackles while starting all 16 regular season games and leading the SaberCats to their second straight ArenaBowl championship appearance. Floyd moved up to the AFL in 2006 after a stellar sophomore campaign in the af2 in 2005 with Rio Grande Valley. That season he captured league Ironman of the Year honors after recording a team-best 101 receptions for 1,452 yards and 29 TDs with 23 rush yards and four TDs on 20 carries. He also ranked fourth in the af2 with nine interceptions and added 47.0 tackles (42 solo), 11 PBUs and two forced fumbles.

CHAVEZ NAMED IRONMAN OF THE YEAR: Manchester Wolves' WR/LB BRADLY CHAVEZ has been named the JLS Ironman of the Year, as selected by a vote of arenafootball2 head coaches and members of the media. Chavez, in his third af2 season and first with Manchester, captured the award that is the essence of Arena Football. The veteran led the team in receptions (86), receiving touchdowns (28), total touchdowns (33) and scoring (202) and finished third on the squad in receiving yards (1,147). Chavez averaged 13.3 yards per reception for the Wolves in 2008. He also tied for second on the club in rushing touchdowns with three. The Alabama-Birmingham alum was a big behind Manchester's 9-7 regular season and appearance in the American Conference title game. The 6-2, 205-pound standout also lined up at the Jack Linebacker position for the Wolves in 2008. On defense, Chavez led the team in fumble recoveries with three (one return TD) and finished second in tackles with 38 (34 solo, 8 asst). He also placed second on the squad in forced fumbles (3), tied for second in interceptions (2; 1 return TD) and ranked third in tackles for loss (5). Chavez, who was the only Wolves player to play in all 16 regular season contests, also recorded one sack, one safety and four pass breakups. His contributions even carried over to the kicking game as Chavez was Manchester's full-time holder on all extra point attempts. Chavez was named JLS Ironman of the Week on two occasions during the 2008 season (WK10, WK14) and was recently named to the American Conference All-af2 First Team. His most impressive outing of the season came in the Wolves' 70-63 upset victory at home against East Division rival Wilkes-Barre/Scranton in Week 10. Chavez was a factor on both sides of the ball and made two big plays in the final minute of the game to clinch the win for Manchester. Chavez caught five passes for 86 yards on offense, including a 23-yard touchdown grab with 56 seconds to play to tie the game at 63-63. On the Pioneers' ensuing possession, Chavez intercepted a RYAN VENA pass and returned it 38 yards for the game-winning touchdown with 39 seconds left in the contest. He also added four solo tackles to his defensive totals. Chavez continued his strong two-way play in the postseason as well, catching 22 passes for 181 yards and five TDs on offense in three games played. He also recorded 7.5 total tackles and one interception on defense.

ROWLEY NAMED OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Arkansas Twisters' QB KYLE ROWLEY has been named the Schutt Offensive Player of the Year, as selected by a vote of arenafootball2 head coaches and media members. Rowley becomes the second league award winner from the Twisters in 2008, joining WR CHRIS DENNEY who was named the Cutters Playmaker of the Year. Rowley, a 6-0, 205-pound player out of Brown, had an outstanding season and was a primary factor in Arkansas' 11-5 regular season record and fourth playoff berth in team history. Rowley, who started all 16 games for the Twisters, finished the regular season by completing 379-of-557 passes (68.0%) for 4,393 yards and 89 touchdowns. He finished the year second in the af2 in touchdown passes, completion percentage and passing yards. Rowley, in his first season with Arkansas (fifth overall), led the league in passer rating (125.2) and finished third in total offensive touchdowns (98) and rushing touchdowns (16). Finally, Rowley was third during the regular season in passing attempts with 557 and second in passing yards per game at 274.6. Rowley took home the Schutt Offensive Player of the Week Award one time during the 2008 season, which was in Week 17. In that game, Rowley set a Twisters team record by throwing for 402 yards. He also tossed nine touchdown passes without an interception. Last week, Rowley was chosen as the National Conference All-af2 First Team quarterback, joining Denney on this year's First Team. For his career, the veteran af2 signal caller ranks among the league's all-time leaders in completion percentage (3rd - 66.7) and completions (10th - 1,138).

SYKES NAMED ADT DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Green Bay Blizzard DL JOE SYKES has been named the ADT Defensive Player of the Year, as selected by a vote of arenafootball2 head coaches and members of the media. This is his second league award as he was also honored recently as the Russell Athletic Lineman of the Year. Sykes made an immediate impact for the Blizzard in 2008. The rookie from Southern University was a big reason behind Green Bay's Midwest Division title and best regular season finish ever at 11-5. The 6-4, 275-pounder led the af2 in tackles for loss (22) and sacks (19.5) during the regular season. Sykes also finished first in the league in forced fumbles (8) and tied for the league lead in fumble recoveries (5). On top of that, he ranked fourth on the team with 49 total tackles (39 solo, 20 asst). He was recently named to the American Conference All-af2 First Team. Sykes keyed a menacing Blizzard defense in 2008 that led the league in sacks (55), total defense (200.2 yards per game), pass defense (178.7 yards per game), touchdowns allowed (75) and fumble return touchdowns (9). Green Bay's sack mark ranks as the second-highest single-season total in league history. Green Bay also finished tied for first overall in fumble recoveries with 25 and second in scoring defense, allowing opponents just 38.1 points per contest. Sykes continued his stellar play in the playoffs as well. He had his best overall outing of 2008 in Green Bay's dominating, 65-37, first round home win against Lexington. Sykes led a record-setting Blizzard performance with 5.5 total tackles (5 solo, 1 asst) and an af2 postseason-record five sacks. His sack total shattered the old mark of 3.5 set by former Bossier-Shreveport lineman ELEX REED in 2007. As a team, Green Bay also set a new playoff record with 10 sacks against the Horsemen, doubling the old mark of five set in 2001 by the Carolina Rhinos. Sykes, who also forced two fumbles in the victory, earned ADT Defensive Player of the Week honors for his effort. The Blizzard saw their ArenaCup hopes come to a close at home last Saturday with a 55-54 last-second loss to Manchester in the American Conference Semifinals. Despite the decision, Sykes again led Green Bay with 1.5 tackles for loss and one sack. He joins an impressive list of past Defensive Player of the Year winners that includes Levi Brown (Florida - 2007), Alex Wallace (Bakersfield - 2006), Dahnel Singfield (Memphis - 2005), Traco Rachel (Laredo - 2004), Kahlil Carter (Arkansas - 2003), Kelly Snell (Tennessee Valley - 2002), Earnest Certain (Tallahassee - 2001) and Cornelius Coe (Quad City - 2000).

BLANCHARD, NIX, FOLIAKI, BUGG EARN CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND HONORS: Tennessee Valley wide receiver/defensive back TRAVIS BLANCHARD, Tennessee Valley wide receiver ALONZO NIX and Spokane linebacker LEE FOLIAKI have been named the JLS Ironman, Schutt Offensive Player and ADT Defensive Player of the Week, respectively, for the Conference Championship Round of the 2008 af2 Playoffs. In addition to these three awards, the Cutters Catch of the Week Award for the Conference Championship Round goes to Spokane wide receiver PATRICK BUGG.

Blanchard (5-11, 185, Mississippi) had an impressive all-around effort for Tennessee Valley in the team's 45-35 home win on Saturday against Manchester in the American Conference Championship. The third-year player from Mississippi was a factor all over field as Tennessee Valley earned its first trip to the ArenaCup since 2000. On offense, Blanchard had two rushing touchdowns on seven carries and finished with 20 total yards rushing. On the defensive side, he recorded five total tackles (4 solo, 2 asst), one fumble recovery and three pass breakups. Blanchard also accumulated 26 yards on two kickoff returns. This is his second af2 Ironman of the Week honor in as many weeks and his third of the season. He was also recognized for his strong overall efforts earlier this season in Week 8. Blanchard, who recently earned a spot on the af2's All-Ironman Team, led the Vipers with 13 rushing TDs during the regular season and also accumulated 37.5 total tackles and three interceptions on defense. Nix (6-1, 185, UT-Chattanooga) had a stellar individual effort for Tennessee Valley in the team's 45-35 home win Saturday against Manchester in the American Conference Championship. The rookie receiver from Tennessee-Chattanooga was a difference maker in the victory with 10 catches for 197 yards and three touchdowns. His 197 yards receiving ranks as the second-highest single game total in postseason history. This is the first time that Nix has received an af2 weekly honor in his career. Through three playoff games, Nix is the Vipers' leading receiver with 33 catches for 411 yards and five TDs. He ranked second on the team during the regular season in receptions (96), receiving yards (1,105) and receiving TDs (23). Foliaki (6-3, 245, Texas A&M) was a difference maker on defense for Spokane in the Shock's 79-49 victory Saturday night against Amarillo in the National Conference Championship. The rookie linebacker from Texas A&M made his presence felt with four total tackles (2 solo, 4 asst), two interceptions and one forced fumble. This is the first af2 weekly league honor of Foliaki's career. The Shock's designated international player had a strong campaign for Spokane in 2008, finishing the regular season third on the team in total tackles (59) and tied for third in tackles for loss (8). He also led Spokane in fumble recoveries with four. Bugg (6-5, 215, Eastern Kentucky) earned the Cutters Catch of the Week Award for his diving, 26-yard touchdown grab with 3:29 to play in the first quarter of Spokane's 79-49 home win against Amarillo on Saturday in the National Conference Championship. The victory enabled the Shock to advance to their second ArenaCup final in the team's three-year history. Bugg finished the night with two catches for 39 yards and also had a 26-yard touchdown run early in the second quarter. During the regular season, the rookie from Eastern Kentucky finished third on the Shock in touchdown receptions (15) and fourth in receptions (34) and receiving yards (475).

SPOKANE TIES SCORING RECORD: The Spokane Shock tied the af2 postseason record for most points scored in a game with 83 in the team's 83-63 home victory on August 9 against Central Valley in a National Conference Semifinal affair. The Shock tied the mark first set by Memphis in 2006. The Xplorers scored 83 points in an 83-61 first round home triumph against Louisville on August 5, 2006.

2008 af2 PLAYOFF SCHEDULE & RESULTS: Sixteen teams qualified for the playoffs, eight from each conference (American and National). The eight qualifying teams in each conference consist of the three division champions and five Wild Cards, determined by best overall record. Seeding in each conference is based on overall record, with the top three seeds in each conference reserved for the division champions, regardless of record. In the First Round (August 1-3), the first three seeds in each conference are the three division winners. The next five teams are seeded by next best five overall records. Teams ranked 1-4 earn home playoff games with 1 hosting 8, 2 hosting 7, 3 hosting 6 and 4 hosting 5. In the Second Round (August 8-10), the winner of the 1-8 game plays the winner of the 4-5 game. The winner of the 2-7 game plays the winner of the 3-6 game. The home team is decided by the team with the higher seed. The winners of the Second Round will meet for the Conference Championships on the weekend of August 15-17. The team with the better overall record hosts the Conference Championship game. The winners of the Conference Championships face off in the 2008 ArenaCup on the weekend of August 22-24 at the venue of the participating team with the best overall record.

Americans, KVEW-TV Announce New Three-Year Partnership

Vipers Reach ArenaCup with 45-35 win over Manchester

Blanchard, Nix and Foliaki Earn Conference Championship Honors

Eskimo fans set new Purolator Tackle Hunger record

At last night's Eskimo game versus Saskatchewan, fans donated 66,080 pounds of food to the Edmonton Food Bank - a new Purolator Tackle Hunger record! Since 2003, Edmonton football fans have helped raise 285,139 pounds of food through the Purolator Tackle Hunger program - the highest amount raised in any CFL city to date.

In return for their donations, fans had the opportunity to receive a souvenir photo with the Grey Cup and enter a draw to win two tickets to the 2008 Grey Cup in Montreal. In addition to the food drive, every time a CFL quarterback gets sacked throughout the regular season, Purolator will donate the equivalent of the quarterback's weight in food to the CFL hometown food bank.

The Eskimos, Purolator and the Edmonton Food Bank thank Eskimo fans for their continued generosity.

The Eskimos travel to Calgary to take on the Stamps in the annual Labour Day Classic on Monday, September 1. 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.

Esks’ Maurer Calls It A Career

Stanley Cup Game Five Tonight at Mushrush’s Main Office Pub

Bus Into The Wolves Den With The IceHogs

Oilers sign goaltender Jeff Drouin-Deslauriers to two-year contract

Prator back in Edmonton

Stamps Set for Season Opener

Speed to have an Open Tryout

The Carolina Speed Professional Indoor Football Team will be hosting their first tryout camp for the 2009 season on Saturday, October 4, 2008 at 10 am. The location is undetermined at this time. For more information please contact Head Coach Ramon Robinson at 704-786-0280 or via email at Ramon.Robinson@carolinaspeed.com. The Carolina Speed will be entering their 3rd year and will play the 2009 season in Cricket Arena. The regular season will begin in March and will run through June. For ticket information, please call 704-786-0280 or visit www.carolinaspeed.com.

Championship Chatter

‘Canes to Open 2008-09 Season at Home Against Florida

Ice Mice To Hold Tryouts For 2008-09 Season

Gladiators to Host Home Playoff Game

Lions release five

Soul Lineman Phil Bogle Signs with Buccaneers

PHILADELPHIA (Wednesday, August 20, 2008) - All-AFL First Team offensive lineman Phil Bogle has been placed on the other league exempt list as he has signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Bogle is the second 2008 Soul player to be signed by an NFL team; WR Larry Brackins was signed by the New York Jets earlier in the week.

Bogle is a two-time, First-Team All-Arena performer on the offensive line and was a finalist for the 2008 Lineman of the Year. He played in all 16 regular-season games and all three postseason contests for the Soul, starting each game at right tackle. As an eligible-receiver lineman, he helped the Soul offense during the regular season with seven catches for 60 yards and six touchdowns. The 6-foot-3, 310-pound University of New Haven product also had two catches with one touchdown in three playoff games. He was an AFL All-Rookie selection in 2007.

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.

Minnesota Wild signs goaltender Barry Brust and right wing Jesse Schultz

Defensive End Earns Award For Second Time In Five-Year Career

Soul WR Brackins Signed by New York Jets

Soul Sign Raheem Orr

Monsters to Start Second Season with Five-Game Home Stand

Blanchard, Nix and Foliaki Earn Conference Championship Honors

CHICAGO - Tennessee Valley wide receiver/defensive back TRAVIS BLANCHARD, Tennessee Valley wide receiver ALONZO NIX and Spokane linebacker LEE FOLIAKI have been named the JLS Ironman, Schutt Offensive Player and ADT Defensive Player of the Week, respectively, for the Conference Championship Round of the 2008 af2 Playoffs. In addition to these three awards, the Cutters Catch of the Week Award for the Conference Championship Round goes to Spokane wide receiver PATRICK BUGG.

JLS IRONMAN OF THE WEEK

Blanchard (5-11, 185, Mississippi) had an impressive all-around effort for Tennessee Valley in the team's 45-35 home win on Saturday against Manchester in the American Conference Championship. The third-year player from Mississippi was a factor all over field as Tennessee Valley earned its first trip to the ArenaCup since 2000. On offense, Blanchard had two rushing touchdowns on seven carries and finished with 20 total yards rushing. On the defensive side, he recorded five total tackles (4 solo, 2 asst), one fumble recovery and three pass breakups. Blanchard also accumulated 26 yards on two kickoff returns. This is his second af2 Ironman of the Week honor in as many weeks and his third of the season. He was also recognized for his strong overall efforts earlier this season in Week 8. Blanchard, who recently earned a spot on the af2's All-Ironman Team, led the Vipers with 13 rushing TDs during the regular season and also accumulated 37.5 total tackles and three interceptions on defense.

SCHUTT OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Nix (6-1, 185, UT-Chattanooga) had a stellar individual effort for Tennessee Valley in the team's 45-35 home win Saturday against Manchester in the American Conference Championship. The rookie receiver from Tennessee-Chattanooga was a difference maker in the victory with 10 catches for 197 yards and three touchdowns. His 197 yards receiving ranks as the second-highest single game total in postseason history. This is the first time that Nix has received an af2 weekly honor in his career. Through three playoff games, Nix is the Vipers' leading receiver with 33 catches for 411 yards and five touchdowns. He ranked second on the team during the regular season in receptions (96), receiving yards (1,105) and receiving TDs (23).

ADT DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Foliaki (6-3, 245, Texas A&M) was a difference maker on defense for Spokane in the Shock's 79-49 victory Saturday night against Amarillo in the National Conference Championship. The rookie linebacker from Texas A&M made his presence felt with four total tackles (2 solo, 4 asst), two interceptions and one forced fumble. This is the first af2 weekly league honor of Foliaki's career. The Shock's designated international player had a strong campaign for Spokane in 2008, finishing the regular season third on the team in total tackles (59) and tied for third in tackles for loss (8). He also led Spokane in fumble recoveries with four.

CUTTERS CATCH OF THE WEEK

Bugg (6-5, 215, Eastern Kentucky) is the Conference Championship Round 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. Bugg's catch was a diving, 26-yard touchdown grab with 3:29 to play in the first quarter of Spokane's 79-49 home win against Amarillo on Saturday in the National Conference Championship. The victory enabled the Shock to advance to their second ArenaCup final in the team's three-year history. Bugg finished the night with two catches for 39 yards and also had a 26-yard touchdown run early in the second quarter. During the regular season, the rookie from Eastern Kentucky finished third on the Shock in touchdown receptions (15) and fourth in receptions (34) and receiving yards (475).

JLS Ironman of the Week candidates included:

Spokane's Lee Foliaki.

Schutt Offensive Player of the Week candidates included:

Spokane's Nick Davila and Spokane's Andy Olson.

ADT Defensive Player of the Week candidates included:

Tennessee Valley's Demetrius Derico, Tennessee Valley's Darren Garrigan and Tennessee Valley's Desmond Foster.

IceHogs name Bill Peters as eighth head coach

Vipers Reach ArenaCup with 45-35 win over Manchester

Thunder’s Morgan af2 ADT Award Winner

Blanchard, Jones and Drakeford Earn Semifinal Honors

Conquest Ground ThunderBirds 59-49

Sylvia Fowles Scores 26 Points Leading the Womens Team to Victory Over South Korea

BEIJING, China (Aug. 19, 2008) -- Led by 26 points and 14 rebounds from Sylvia Fowles (Chicago Sky), the 2008 U.S. Women's Olympic Team (6-0) used its size and a monster 26-9 second quarter to wear down South Korea early and roll to a 104-60 quarterfinals win and a berth into the Olympic semifinals on Tuesday night at Wukesong Arena in Beijing, China.

The U.S. victory, coupled with Russia's 84-65 win over Spain in the day's late game, set the stage for a USA versus Russia (5-1) rematch of the 2006 FIBA World Championship semifinal game, a game won by Russia 75-68. The game is scheduled to be played Thursday at 8 p.m. (8 a.m. EDT on MSNBC). China (5-1) will meet Australia in the other semifinal match up at 10:15 p.m. The winners of the semifinal games will advance to Saturday's gold medal game (10:00 p.m.), while the losers will square off in the bronze medal game (7:30 p.m.).

Everybody scored for the USA in the win over South Korea, including 12 points from Diana Taurasi (Phoenix Mercury); 11 points from both Kara Lawson (Sacramento Monarchs) and Cappie Pondexter (Phoenix Mercury); and 10 points from Lisa Leslie (Los Angeles Sparks).

"(South Korea) showed in the first quarter what they are capable of, and I thought we responded. (In the) second and third quarter defensively, in particular, I thought we did a great job," said USA head coach Anne Donovan. "Once again, I think our depth is key to our team and to our success. We just can keep putting people on the floor and virtually have no letup at all. So, I'm really pleased. We're really excited to get into the semifinals."

The USA shot 56.6 percent from the field (43-76 FGs), and relied on its inside superiority to score 66 points in the paint and outrebound South Korea 50-24 on its way to 22 second-chance points.

Down 4-2, Leslie converted on a Taurasi assist to kick-off a 6-0 run that brought the score to 8-4 in the USA's favor when South Korea called its first timeout with 6:23 on the clock. The ensuing 3:37 featured six lead changes, and at the end of the first quarter the American women led 25-21.

Wildcats Claw By Wranglers, 58-56

Kovalchuk suspension shouldn’t change classic Russia-Finland matchup

Dorados Dominate Yard Dawgz In 53-36 Win

Rossi aims to carry momentum

Week 14: Sunday Matchup

Rossi takes victory in China

Soul WR Brackins Signed by New York Jets

PHILADELPHIA (Tuesday, August 19, 2008) - Standout Philadelphia Soul wide receiver Larry Brackins has signed with the NFL's New York Jets.

Brackins appeared in 15 regular season games with the Soul in 2008 and was named offensive player of the game in three of them. He had a total of 107 receptions for 1395 yards and 29 touchdowns during the regular season. In the playoffs, he registered 20 catches for 249 yards and six touchdowns and in Virgin Mobile ArenaBowl XXII caught six passes for 70 yards and two touchdowns.

The former 2005 fifth round Tampa Bay Buccaneers pick out of Pearl River Community College returns to the NFL since joining the Soul for the 2007 season. Though it could mean losing a key component on offense, head coach Bret Munsey thinks it's a great opportunity for Brackins and a positive for the team.

"A number of guys have received interest from NFL teams, which is a part of having great players and winning a championship," Munsey said. "I'm happy to get him another shot at the NFL. We feel he's come a long way in the past two years as a professional and we wish the best for him."

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.

Philadelphia and San Jose advance to Virgin Mobile ArenaBowl XXII in New Orleans

Wilkes-Barre/Scranton defeat Wolves 68-50

Soul Playoff Daily

Conquest Ground ThunderBirds 59-49

Championship Chatter

CFL Players of the Week

Toronto, ON - (August 19, 2008) - Avon Cobourne, Keron Williams, Dominique Dorsey, and Davis Sanchez were named the CFL's top players for week #8, the Canadian Football League announced today.

Players of the Week are selected for on-field excellence by members of the Canadian football broadcasters.

OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

RB - Avon Cobourne - Montreal Alouettes

Montreal Alouettes 32 @ Toronto Argonauts 14

Highlights / Key Stats:

Avon Cobourne is now the league-leader in rushing yards following his impressive all around game against the Toronto Argonauts last Friday night. Cobourne rushed 16 times for 107 yards and also caught five passes for 103 yards and one touchdown in the Als 32-14 road victory. Cobourne's 103 receiving yards and 210 yards from scrimmage both led the league last week.

Cobourne has rushed for a league leading 715 yards and is eighth in the league with 463 receiving yards this season. Cobourne has a chance to become the first player in league history with over 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in the same season.

Leafs TV To Broadcast Every Game Of Marlies North Division Final

Marlies Announce Dates For Western Conference Finals

Argos Face Als for Friday Night Football

Leafs TV to Broadcast Every Game of Western Conference Finals

Conference Championship Matchups

NO. 7 MANCHESTER WOLVES (11-7) AT NO. 4 TENNESSEE VALLEY VIPERS (12-6)

SATURDAY, AUGUST 16, 2008 - Von Braun Center (6,642) 8:30 P.M. ET

The Tennessee Valley Vipers host the Manchester Wolves Saturday night in the American Conference Championship at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville, Ala. The winner advances to the 2008 ArenaCup title game. These two teams have met just once in their histories. The Vipers hold a 1-0 series edge thanks to a 47-30 victory in the second round of the 2003 playoffs when the Wolves were based in Connecticut and were known as the Mohegan Wolves. In this year's postseason, No. 7 seed Manchester has scored upset wins over No. 2 seed South Georgia and No. 3 seed Green Bay to get to the conference championship. The Wolves have been one of the hottest teams in the league, winning six straight and 10-of-11 overall. In a thrilling matchup last week, the Wolves beat the Blizzard, 55-54, on a last second 2-point conversion run by QB BRIAN JONES. Jones' performance was crucial in the victory (6 TD passes, 2 TD runs). The four-year af2 veteran signal caller was pressed back into duty last week after an injury to starter JAMES PINKNEY, who started 12 regular season games and one playoff game (first round win). Jones started two games for Manchester earlier this year but injured his shoulder and missed the remainder of the regular season. This will be his fourth start of the year overall. Jones helped guide the now defunct Memphis Xplorers to three straight postseason appearances (2004-06) and an ArenaCup title in 2005. Memphis was coached at the time by current Wolves head man DANTON BARTO. Barto became just the fourth coach in af2 history to reach 60 career coaching victories with Manchester's semifinal win. The team's top candidate for Ironman of the Year honors is WR/LB BRADLY CHAVEZ. Chavez has been the team leader and has stepped up his offensive game in the playoffs (16 catches, 134 yards, four TDs). On defense, DB DAHNEL SINGFIELD has led the Wolves in tackles in the playoffs and also led them in the regular season. The Vipers are coming into Saturday's Conference Championship game as a confident group after a 34-30 upset win at No. 1 seed Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. After WR ALONZO NIX caught a six-yard TD pass from KEVIN EAKIN with just seven seconds to play, Tennessee Valley preserved the win on a last second tackle on their own 2-yard line. Eakin has been solid for the Vipers all season with 51 passing touchdowns and three rushing scores. He has had a very strong playoff run as well. Leading receiver WR MAURICE BROWN has caught three of Eakin's seven touchdown passes. Nix leads the squad in receptions in the postseason with 23 grabs for 214 yards and two TDs. WR/DB TRAVIS BLANCHARD, Tennessee Valley's top candidate for Ironman of the Year, has been a playmaker on both sides of the ball, recording an interception on defense and a TD reception and two TD runs on offense. DL ERIC SCOTT is the team's top pass rusher. Scott led the team with 17.5 sacks during the regular season and has a team-best 4.0 through two playoff games. If Jones can handle the Vipers defensive pressure, expect this game to go down to the wire.

Vipers Reach ArenaCup with 45-35 win over Manchester

Blanchard, Jones and Drakeford Earn Semifinal Honors

Wilkes-Barre/Scranton defeat Wolves 68-50

Rattlers Keep Playoff-Guaranteed Team Together for '09

MESA, Ariz. - What a difference a season makes.

Just six months ago, the Arizona Rattlers entered their playoff-guaranteed season with only six returning players out of the 37 training camp participants. With the 2009 camp still half a year away, the Rattlers have 24 members of last season's squad under contract.

"We wanted to get some of our core players resigned to build on for next year," said HEAD COACH KEVIN GUY. But one of two things has to happen: our current players will either have to raise their level of play, or we will have to get better players at certain spots. Our goal from this point on will be to raise the bar."

Rattlers DL MKRISTO BRUCE (6-6, 270, Washington State) is in training camp with the Jacksonville Jaguars of the NFL. Bruce, who joined the team mid-season, recorded starts at DE and LB, and was named to the league's Al Lucas Hero Team after joining the Rattlers mid-season.

Sunday was the last day teams could resign players with expiring contracts. Players who were not resigned enter the league's free agency pool, though the signing period will not start until later this year.

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

Blue Bombers release two from training camp roster

Roughrider Training Camp - Day #4

Details of Z’s Hard Knocks Hockey Camp Announced

B-Sens Announce Six Guaranteed Home Dates

Argos Face Als for Friday Night Football

Toronto - It will be the battle of the East at Rogers Centre on Friday as the Toronto Argonauts prepare to take on the Montreal Alouettes. The Argos hope to regain their hold on first place in the CFL East Division and a win on Friday will do just that. The game, presented by PC Financial, begins at 7:30 p.m. as Kerry Joseph and the Double Blue face Anthony Calvillo and the Als.

Great value for the whole family or for an outing with friends, the Toronto Argonauts are proud to launch the special Canadian Football Foursome for this game. For only $99, fans can kick off their weekend with Friday Night Football. The Canadian Football Foursome includes four 100 level tickets and four CFL "This is OUR League"/ Argos "This is MY Team" T-shirts. Friends can get together and share their CFL passion at this special value pricing.

The Nissan Tailgate Party begins at 5:00 p.m., featuring music, food, beverages and the 2008 Argos cheerleaders, in the Bremner St. parking lot on the south side of Rogers Centre. Families should visit the Generation A Zone outside of Gate 11 which includes the RONA Football Interactive Inflatable, 6000 square feet of space for fans of all ages to test their football skills.

Following the game, Boatmen supporters can head to the new home of the Argos' official post game party at Jack Astor's, 144 Front Street West. Following each home game, the party features live music, drink specials and the opportunity to meet your favourite Argos players and cheerleaders.

The Toronto Argonauts are North America's oldest professional football club, celebrating their 135th anniversary in 2008. As Toronto's #1 community team through player involvement, community programs and The Argos Foundation, the Toronto Argonauts, a member of the Canadian Football League (CFL), have 15 Grey Cup championships to their credit. The Toronto Argonauts are privately-owned by two Toronto-based businessmen. For 2008 season ticket and group sales packages, including the Canadian Football Foursome, please contact the sales team at (416) 341-ARGO. For more information on the Toronto Argonauts Football Club, please visit argonauts.ca.

Marlies Announce Dates For Western Conference Finals

Amerks to Open 53rd Season on October Tenth at BCA

First XI: E-mail lessons

Scotiabank to accept donations for Ackles dream project

Blanchard, Jones and Drakeford Earn Semifinal Honors

CHICAGO - Tennessee Valley wide receiver/defensive back TRAVIS BLANCHARD, Manchester quarterback BRIAN JONES and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton defensive back BARRY DRAKEFORD have been named the JLS Ironman, Schutt Offensive Player and ADT Defensive Player of the Week, respectively, for the Conference Semifinal Round of the 2008 af2 Playoffs. In addition to these three awards, the Cutters Catch of the Week Award for the Conference Semifinal Round goes to Amarillo wide receiver JIM LUKOWIAK.

JLS IRONMAN OF THE WEEK

Blanchard (5-11, 185, Mississippi) had an impressive all-around effort for Tennessee Valley in the team's 34-30 upset victory on Saturday at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton in the American Conference Semifinals. The third-year player from Mississippi was a factor all over field as Tennessee Valley snapped the Pioneers' 21-game home win streak, a streak that began late in the 2006 season. On offense, Blanchard had one rushing touchdown and one receiving score. On the defensive side, he recorded two solo tackles, including one tackle for loss, one fumble recovery and one interception. Blanchard also accumulated 63 yards on four kickoff returns. This is the second af2 Ironman of the Week honor of Blanchard's career. He was also recognized for his strong overall efforts earlier this season in Week 8. Blanchard, who recently earned a spot on the af2's All-Ironman Team, led the Vipers with 13 rushing TDs during the regular season and also accumulated 37.5 total tackles and three interceptions on defense.

SCHUTT OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Jones (6-2, 210, Toledo) had a stellar individual effort for Manchester in the team's 55-54 upset win on the road Saturday at Green Bay in the American Conference Semifinals. The veteran signal caller from Toledo, in his fourth af2 campaign, filled in for injured starter James Pinkney and led the Wolves past the favored Blizzard in just his third start of 2008. Jones completed 24-of-36 passes (66.7 percent) for 194 yards and six touchdowns with one interception. He also scored two rushing touchdowns. Jones was clutch in the late moments as he threw a 17-yard TD pass with one second left to pull team within one point, 54-53, and then converted the game-winning 2-point conversion run. This is the fifth Offensive Player of the Week Award of Jones' career and his first of 2008.

ADT DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Drakeford (5-10, 195, Kent State) was a playmaker on defense for Wilkes-Barre/Scranton but it wasn't enough as the No. 1 seed Pioneers lost at home to Tennessee Valley, 34-30, Saturday night in the American Conference Semifinals. Despite the result, the second-year defensive back from Kent State made his presence felt with nine total tackles (8 solo, 2 asst) and two pass breakups. Drakeford also recorded his first career playoff interception as time expired in the first half which he returned 47 yards for a touchdown. This is the first af2 weekly league honor of his career. Drakeford had a strong campaign for Wilkes-Barre/Scranton in 2008, finishing the regular season second on the team in total tackles (68.5), interceptions (8) and pass breakups (13). He also tied for the team lead in fumble recoveries with four.

CUTTERS CATCH OF THE WEEK

Lukowiak (6-1, 205, Southern Connecticut State) is the Conference Semifinal Round 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. Lukowiak's catch was a leaping, 21-yard touchdown grab with 11 seconds left in the fourth quarter that clinched Amarillo's 59-45 road win against Bossier-Shreveport. The victory enabled the underdog Dusters to advance to their first-ever National Conference Championship. Lukowiak finished the night with a game-high 10 catches for 129 yards, five of which went for scores (2008 postseason-high). The Southern Connecticut State alum has been one of the league's top playmakers in 2008, his first full season in af2. Lukowiak finished third in the league in receptions (124) and receiving touchdowns (38) and ranked fourth in receiving yards (1,602).

JLS Ironman of the Week candidates included:

Bossier-Shreveport's P.J. Winston, Manchester's Bradly Chavez, Green Bay's Tyre Young and Central Valley's Jomo Wilson.

Schutt Offensive Player of the Week candidates included:

Amarillo's Julian Reese, Amarillo's Jim Lukowiak, Bossier-Shreveport's Gary Cooper, Tennessee Valley's Alonzo Nix, Green Bay's Scott Burnoski and Spokane's Katon Bethay.

ADT Defensive Player of the Week candidates included:

Bossier-Shreveport's Marvin Byrdsong, Amarillo's Gerard Washington, Tennessee Valley's Eric Scott, Green Bay's Rusty Midlam, Manchester's Dahnel Singfield and Spokane's Sergio Gilliam.

Wilkes-Barre/Scranton defeat Wolves 68-50

Nick Gatto Named SFC Kicker of the Year

Brandon Hussey grabs Catch of the Week Award

Pioneers Blaze Past Conquest 69-27

Nick Gatto Named SFC Kicker of the Year

CHICAGO - Texas Copperheads' kicker NICK GATTO has been named the SFC Kicker of the Year, as selected by a vote of arenafootball2 head coaches and members of the media.

Gatto, in his second season with the Copperheads and third af2 season overall, led all kickers in field goals made in 2008 with 17. Gatto also finished second in FG attempts (43) and third in PAT percentage (90.6) amongst af2 kickers during the regular season. The Arkansas State alum converted 17-of-43 field goals (39.5 percent) and 58-of-64 point after touchdowns during the 2008 campaign. Gatto led Texas in scoring with 109 points. Earlier this week he was named to the National Conference All-af2 First Team for the second consecutive season.

Gatto's first af2 experience came in 2005 with the Quad City Steamwheelers. He currently ranks third in league history with 43 field goals made and ninth all-time in scoring amongst kickers with 315 career points.

Gatto got his start in Arena Football in 2002 with the Arena Football League's Orlando Predators. His three-year AFL career (2002-04) included stints with the Dallas Desperados, Chicago Rush, Detroit Fury and Grand Rapids Rampage.

Gatto is the fourth recipient of the af2 Kicker of the Year Award. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton's DAVID DAVIS won the honor in 2007 while Oklahoma City's A.J. HAGLUND took home the award in 2006. Louisville's DANNY KIGHT was the inaugural winner in 2005.

The 2008 af2 playoffs continue this weekend with the American and National Conference Semifinals this Saturday, August 9. On the American Conference side of the bracket, the No. 1 Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Pioneers host the No. 4 Tennessee Valley Vipers at 7:30 p.m. ET and the No. 3 Green Bay Blizzard host the No. 7 Manchester Wolves at 8:30 p.m. ET. On the National Conference side, the No. 3 Bossier-Shreveport BattleWings host the No. 7 Amarillo Dusters at 8:00 p.m. ET and the No. 1 Spokane Shock host the No. 5 Central Valley Coyotes at 10:00 ET.

Hawks, Bruins Swap Top AHL Point Scorers, David Working Back from Injury

Blaze Activate Steve Videtich

Gatto To Be Featured on CW39 Houston Tuesday Night at 9pm