Date: Sept. 29, 2008
Player: Sandro DeAngelis, Shannon James, Tim O'Neill, Lemarcus Rowell, Dimitri Tsoumpas
Event: Timbits football program
Location: McMahon Stadium - 1817 Crowchild Trail N.W.
Time: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Date: Sept. 30, 2008
Player: Charleston Hughes, Juwan Simpson, Neil Ternovatsky
Event: Pee Wee Football Program with the Foothills Falcons
Location: Foothills Composite High School football field - 229 Woodhaven Drive, Okotoks
Time: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
"The league has a responsibility and an obligation to protect the players of our game. The type of incident that occurred - blatant, helmet-to-helmet contact, which can lead to career-ending injuries for our star athletes - has no place on the field.
We are very fortunate this incident did not lead to a serious injury to our quarterback, Kevin Glenn. These types of violations and incidents need to be met with a succinct position that they will not be tolerated by the league. The decision made by the league has taken somewhat of a step in that direction.
In my leadership experience, strong actions result in very strong messages.
We truly hope the incident from Friday night involving a blatant helmet-to-helmet blow does not occur in future weeks in the Canadian Football League because of the precedent that was set today."
The Winnipeg Football Club will not be issuing further statements on this matter.
At 9-4-0, the Alouettes can finish no lower than second in the East Division and have become the first CFL team to qualify for the playoffs this season. This marks the Alouettes' 13th-straight playoff appearance, making them the only team to qualify for the post season every year since 1996.
With just one more victory, Montreal will clinch first place in the division and will host the final on Saturday, Nov. 15. Should the Alouettes finish second, they will host the semi-final on Saturday, Nov. 8.
Season ticket holders have priority on playoff tickets, while tickets will go on sale to the general public on Oct. 9 at noon.
Fans may already reserve group packages (minimum 10 people) by calling the Alouettes' ticket office at 514-871-2255.
September 25, 2008
Dear Mariners Fans and 2008 Season Ticket Holders,
In 2008, the Baltimore Mariners Professional Indoor Football Team of the American Indoor Football Association took to the field for their inaugural season. As a season ticket holder, you were an integral component in ensuring the success and longevity of the team. In 2009, the Baltimore Mariners will return to the turf at 1st Mariner Arena with a new look, new ownership, and with unified purpose; to advance to the post season, and win the AIFA Championship title.
The Baltimore Mariners have been working tirelessly this off-season in ensuring that this team will be one of the most competitive in the league. The Baltimore Mariners have already announced the signing of key players such as the league's top rated kicker J.R. Cipra, and sure handed wide receivers Scorpio Brown, Jamal Stokes, and Aaron Yarbough, just to name a few. This upcoming season is going to be bigger and better, and you as a season ticket holder will not want to miss a single moment of the action as the Baltimore Mariners set sail for the coveted AIFA Championship Ring.
The Baltimore Mariners are thrilled to announce the offering of their 2009 seven home game Season Ticket packages. Having been an 2008 season ticket holder, you now have the opportunity to purchase 2009 Baltimore Mariners season tickets and retain the same great seats you occupied last season; or you can upgrade your seat selection and be even closer to the action should you so desire. For 2009, season ticket prices have been reduced! Please go to www.baltimoremariners.com for more information.
Thank you for your support in 2008. We are excited to see you back in your seats in 2009 as you cheer the Baltimore Mariners onto victory as they "Set Sail" toward the Championship game.
Sincerely,
Greg Justice
General Manager
Being held in beautiful old Montreal at the Marchй Bonsecours, Pro Players' will play host to a 3 day Party series unlike any other.
Join your favourite players, alumni, special guests and fans as football fever descends on Montreal for this year's Grey Cup!
The fun kicks off Thursday night November 20th with the Gibson's Pro Players' Award Show After Party. Be at the premiere event in town and mix and mingle with Award winners and Nominees, All-Stars, Alumni and Special Guests with a headlining performance by DJ Starting from Scratch.
The party continues Friday November 21st with the AMP Energy "Play a Pro" Mobile Gaming tour from 12pm to 5pm capped off with a memorable night as Reebok and Diet Pepsi Max bring you the Pro Players' concert featuring Montreal's own April Wine. Be one of only 1000 people there to rock with one of Canada's all time great recording artists in an intimate setting in Old Montreal.
Saturday November 22nd begins with another afternoon of AMP Energy Gaming and a night of revelry culminating in the much anticipated Scotiabank Pro Players' Wrap Up featuring award winning Toronto DJ Starting from Scratch.
Get your tickets early and be part of two days and three nights of great entertainment and parties at the coolest, hippest place to be at this year's Grey Cup!
We Are..... Pro Players!
The CFL Players' Association is proud to team up with league sponsors Gibson's, Molson, Reebok, Scotiabank and Pepsi Frito-Lay for our Grey Cup Party Series in Montreal.
Ticket Packages available at www.proplayersparty.com or call 1-888-222-6608
See website for Event Schedules and additional ticket information.
John Wolfe was named General Manager of the Maniacs, who will call Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, Maryland home. Wolfe will be entering his third season as GM of a professional indoor football franchise, having held the same position with the Chesapeake Tide of the Continental Indoor Football League (CIFL) and the Baltimore Blackbirds of the American Indoor Football Association (AIFA). As an employee of the U.S. Department of Defense, he has over 20 years of varied experience in acquisition, finance, human resources, project management, retail and ticket sales, and has over 11 years of management experience. He also owned and operated his own retail and wholesale sports apparel, collectibles, and memorabilia business for nine years. Wolfe earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore County and is scheduled to complete his Masters of Business Administration in the fall of 2008.
The Maniacs also selected Paul Clary as Director of Game Day Operations and Community Relations. Clary will be working for his fifth professional football team and has extensive experience in community relations, event management, game day operations, fund raising, promotions, and also has performed locally as an actor. For the 2008 season he served as Promotions Director for the Chesapeake Tide and was later promoted to Assistant General Manager for Business Operations. In 2003 and 2004 Paul worked with the Baltimore Ravens promotion department for their annual SpringFest. In 2006, he served as President, in charge of fund raising, for Button Club Charities. In 2007 Paul established himself as a 9th Man Coordinator working with the Baltimore Blackbirds Pro Indoor Football team. He also worked on the launch of the Baltimore Mariners, of the AIFA, as their 9th Man Coordinator.
Robert Holmes Jr. was named Director of Football Operations. He brings a wide range of sports management experience and knowledge to the Maniacs including 20 years of coaching experience. Holmes, who began his coaching career in 1988 at Carver High School in Baltimore, has held a variety of coaching position at the youth, high school, semi-pro, and professional levels. He also has two years of front office experience in the pro ranks. In 2006 he was named Assistant Defensive Coordinator/Player Personal Director for the Chesapeake Tide and in 2007 Holmes was promoted to Defensive Coordinator and Assistant General Manager. He is scheduled to graduate with a Bachelor's Degree in Sports Management from Coppin State University in the spring of 2009.
"We feel we have compiled a front office staff, which will enable the Maniacs to be successful both on and off the field," stated Maniacs Owner Messay Hailemariam.
For more information on the Maryland Maniacs please visit www.marylandmaniacs.com.
Peter Morris, the general manager last season, will remain as one of the eight partners in the franchise's ownership group.
Bike, who enters her fourth season with the Wolves, has a clear vision for the future of the franchise.
"With the support we received from Manchester and the surrounding communities this past season, and with Danton (Barto) coming back as our head coach, I envision the 2009 season as a nother huge success," she said. "The team's ability to make it all the way to the American Conference championship this past season leads me to believe that the coming season will bring another year of exciting football for our team and our fans."
Bike a graduate of the University of New Hampshire and Manchester Central High School, oversaw the advertising, marketing, sales, and sponsorship assignments for the Wolves in her role as the corporate operations director over the past few seasons. As acting general manager, she was responsible for all aspects of team management through the Wolves thrilling playoff run to the American Conference title game in 2008.
Bike started and operated a personal assistant business, "Those Girls" in 2002 in Fairfield County, Connecticut. Before that, she worked for Maxim and Stuff magazines in New York City in the editorial, advertising, and marketing departments.
Bike lives in Merrimack, NH with her husband, Keith and their son and daughter.
The Wolves have also promoted Dave Hamilton from account representative to ticket director and Dave Bestjoins Kim Laurendi as an account representative.
"Sherdrick is the ultimate professional and was a big part of our success in 2008," said Rush head coach Mike Hohensee. "In addition to his play on the field, his aid in the development of Russ Michna was critical. Now with the free-agent signing period on the horizon, we felt we owed it to Sed to allow him to pursue opportunities as a starting quarterback elsewhere in the league."
Signed as a free agent last October, Bonner, 39, started five games for the Rush before suffering a knee injury April 6 at Orlando. He was replaced as the starter by Michna, who remained the team's starting QB the remainder of the year. Overall, Bonner appeared in seven games for the Rush, completing 100 of 167 passes for 1,316 yards and 26 touchdowns.
The 15-year veteran ranks third in AFL history in completions (3,361), attempts (5,435), passing yards (42,295) and passing touchdowns (855).
There will be a registration fee of $100.00 for those who pay by credit card, cashier's check or money order in advance and a fee of $125.00 for those who pay onsite during registration. Deadline for the advance payments is November 1st at 4:00 PM. All further payments must be made in cash on the day of the tryout. Onsite registration runs from 7:30 am to 8:00 am. All participants will be required to fill out all forms, including an injury waiver.
The Dragons have held several successful open tryouts in the past with an average of at least 100 participants each year. All Arena DS Billy Parker, Ironman WR/DB Chris Anthony, DB Will Holder, WR/DB DaShane Dennis are a few standouts that have come from open tryouts.
The tryout will be held inside at the PLEX Indoor Sports facility at located at 741 Fashion Drive Columbia, South Carolina (Sandhills Shopping Center) and will start promptly after the registration period has ended. Participants should wear a t-shirt, gym shorts, cleats and or turf sneakers. Water will be provided, but it is encouraged that participants bring their own snack. There will be a variety of drills which participants will be tested on from basic running to more advance simulated play.
Participants will be competing in front of Head Coach Weylan Harding of the New York Dragons and other head coaches in AFL. Harding guided the Dragons to the playoffs during the 2008 campaign. New York has made trips to the playoffs two out of the last three years.
Combine host Henry Taylor has an impressive football resume. Taylor, a standout Defensive Lineman for the University of South Carolina was All SEC in his senior season in 1997. Taylor started 40 games in his four years with the Gamecocks. From USC, Taylor spent five years in the NFL before becoming a dominant Defensive Lineman in the Arena League. In the past four years Taylor has totaled 30 sacks (more than eight in each of his last three seasons), six forced fumbles, three fumble recovered and five pass break ups.
Terms of this agreement include:
1) While the Augusta Colts will not play football in 2009, the Colts are not folding. Quite the contrary, the Colts remain in good standing with the AIFA; having paid (in advance) their AIFA membership dues for the entire 2009 season.
2) Global Spectrum has affirmed their intent to continue to negotiate a 2010 arena lease with the Colts; a process scheduled to resume tomorrow, (Sept. 24, 2008). Indeed, there is great expectation within our respective organizations about the prospect of working together to help re-create the excitement of pro indoor football in the CSRA.
3) During this "off season" Colts' fans can expect to see an increase in our community presence (to create an awareness & support for the home team). We will also use this time to "tweak" our business plan (to better meet the challenges of a weak economy); to retire any lingering debt; and to continue our search for a new head coach & dance team coordinator. Fans can follow our progress over the next 18 months via weekly updates on the Colts' official website, www.augustacolts.com.
In conclusion, while saddened by the prospect of sitting out the 2009 indoor season, the Augusta Colts realize that we have been presented with a tremendous opportunity; one which will allow us to evaluate the lessons learned during our inaugural (2008) season and thus move the franchise forward with greater success & stability in the future.
MacKeown will serve as a coordinator on the staff of Head Coach Mike Dailey in Colorado. The team, co-owned by two-time Super Bowl Champion quarterback John Elway, went 6-10 in 2008, finishing third in the Central Division.
"We understand that as of this week, Chris has signed an agreement to be Colorado's Offensive Coordinator," said Dusters majority owner Randy Sanders. "This is really what the af2 league is all about, giving players and coaches the opportunity to move up in the football world."
As the Dusters Head Coach in 2008, MacKeown posted an 8-8 record against regular season foes. In playoff action, the MacKeown-coached Dusters went 2-1, losing to Spokane in the conference finals.
"The number of experienced offensive coaches in the Arena game is somewhat limited and we think we found ourselves a very capable coach in Chris MacKeown," Elway said in a Crush press release. "Serving as a head coach and his familiarity with Coach Dailey, he fit the pedigree that we were looking for in an offensive coordinator."
"Chris is very deserving of the position, and we in Amarillo are very excited for him," continued Sanders. "We would like to wish Coach continued success in his future endeavors."
The Dusters have started an immediate search for a Head Coach to fill the now-vacant position. Sanders remarked that a new Head Coach for the squad could be named in as little as two weeks.
THE AMARILLO DUSTERS are a member of the arenafootball2 league. The team front office is now located at 901 S. Buchanan in downtown Amarillo. Season ticket packages for 2009 are available by calling (806) 350-PASS (7277), and start at just $96 a seat.
In an effort to help promote local high-school football, the Stamps have asked five local football experts to rank the field for the 2008 season. These rankings will be released each Wednesday.
The panel consists of long-time Calgarians Tony Spoletini, Gary DeMan and Al Cooper, who are very familiar with the local football scene. In addition, Stamps beat writers Al Cameron and Ian Busby of the Calgary Herald and Calgary Sun, respectively, will contribute to the weekly rankings.
Division One
1. St. Francis (2)
2. Notre Dame (4)
3. Henry Wisewood (1)
4. Bowness (3)
5. Lord Beaverbrook (5)
6. Centennial (6)
7. St. Mary's (7)
Division Two
1. John D. Diefenbaker (2)
2. Bishop O'Byrne (1)
3. Central Memorial (4)
4. Western Canada (3)
5. Cresent Heights (7)
6. Bishop McNally (5)
7. Bishop Grandin (6)
8. Sir Winston Churchill (8)
Division Three
1. Forest Lawn (4)
2. Bishop Carrol (2)
3. Ernest Manning (5)
4. William Aberhart (1)
5. Dr. E.P. Scarlett (3)
6. James Fowler (6)
Note: Last week's rankings in parentheses.
Arthur was drafted by the Stampeders in the first round (sixth overall) of the 2007 Canadian Football League draft. He spent 2007 with the Akron University Zips and caught 86 passes for 1,171 yards and 10 touchdowns in 12 games.
Walls played in five games with the St. Louis Rams in 2007. The Boston College product has spent time with four different National Football League teams and was originally signed as an undrafted free agent by the Denver Broncos in 2002.
Copeland is a six-foot-three, 212-pound quarterback from Valdosta State. He recently had tryouts with the New York Giants and Miami Dolphins before joining the Stamps.
The next Stampeders home game is Monday, Oct. 13 at 2:30 p.m. against the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Tickets are going quickly for the Thanksgiving Classic and fans are encouraged to call Ticketmaster at 403.777.0000 or visit Ticketmaster.ca to get their tickets before they're gone.
Taylor was a seventh round draft pick by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2004 NFL draft. He spent time on the practice rosters of Steelers, Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks and Tennessee Titans. Taylor played one game with the Vikings in 2005. He was recently released by the Tennessee Titans. He played a total of 36 games in his four years with Memphis recording a total of 151 tackles, six sacks, 12 passes broken up, three forced fumbles and one interception for 52 yards.
79
Eric Taylor
DL
(Import)
University of Memphis
Born: December 14, 1981 - Winchester, TN
Height: 6'2 Weight: 309
Yrs Esks: 1st
Yrs CFL: 1st
The Eskimos head to Winnipeg for game one of the back-to-back series with the Blue Bombers on Friday, September 26th. Kickoff is at 7pm. For more information on the Edmonton Eskimos visit our website at www.esks.com.
Veteran Barrin Simpson will join fellow linebacker Joe Lobendahn on Wednesday, September 24 to aid in the annual event. In all, hundreds of volunteers - including local celebrities, sponsors, and literacy beneficiaries - will blanket Winnipeg streets, high pedestrian traffic areas, bus and coffee stops, and the drive-thru lineups of select McDonald's restaurants. They'll be trading special-edition copies of the Winnipeg Free Press and National Post for donations to Canwest Raise-a-Reader.
Canwest Raise-a-Reader (RAR) is an award-winning national program designed to increase awareness and collect funds/resources to support family literacy programs. All of the money raised through Raise-a-Reader is donated to local literacy and educational organizations and stays in the community where it is collected.
The trio of Blue Bomber players will join Buzz and Boomer, as well as the likes of Leonard and Gail Asper; Dr. Lloyd Axworthy, former Winnipeg Jets great Thomas Steen and Bob Cox, publisher of the Winnipeg Free Press, as celebrity volunteers.
Smith was born and raised in Odessa and is a 1991 product of Odessa High School. He has been working in the family business since he graduated from high school and is a member of Crossroads Fellowship in Odessa. "It has been my longtime goal to own a professional sports franchise in Odessa and I am very pleased to accomplish this goal with a team like the Roughnecks", explained Smith, "We are very excited about the quality of this organization and look forward to building on the teams past successes." With Smith's assistance, the Katy Ruff Riders grew into a solid franchise increasing attendance and improving on the field over a two year period.
Joining Brandon will be his sister Rebecca Greenfield who will contribute in the teams marketing and promotional efforts. The current Roughnecks staff, including the winningest coach in IFL history, Chris Williams are all part of the new ownership groups future plans. "I am sad to see Tommy and Abby leave but am very optimistic about the future of our team", remarked Williams. Tommy Benizio will remain with the team as a consultant until December in efforts to assist with the transition of ownership and to ensure that all of the teams vendors and many ticket holders and corporate partners are taken care of.
The Benizio's founded the Roughnecks approximately five years ago by launching the team at a press conference on October 8th, 2003. Since that time, the God-lead franchise has accomplished two "Franchise of the Year" awards among many other, several sell-out games, an undefeated season in 2005 followed up with a championship year in 2006. The team never finished below a 3rd place tie in the standings and was among the top teams in attendance during each of its first five seasons. Benizio played a key role in the creation of the new Indoor Football League which looks to compete with as many as 30 teams during the inaugural 2009 season and he is now being considered by the IFL board for the position of league Commissioner. Benizio hopes to have an announcement over the coming weeks regarding his involvement in leading the new league. Benizio stated, "This is a bitter-sweet day for my wife (Abby) and I. We love this team and this community that has become our home but are also excited about the future and where God will take us next."
The package was developed by AIFA co-founders John Morris and Micheal Mink, based on feedback from various team owners. The AIFA will provide a subsidy pool of $110,000 to aid playoff participants with travel and other related expenses. The incentive package is believed to be the first of its kind in minor league indoor football.
"Our owners should never dread making the playoffs," said AIFA co-founder John Morris. "But in recent years we have found that team budgets have been strained at playoff time. This proposal is intended to help free our teams from those worries. We want teams competing in our playoffs to be concentrating on football.
"This $110,000 package, to be honest with you, I'm extremely excited about it," Morris told This Week in the AIFA. "I've not seen the relationship (between the AIFA and its member teams) as strong as it was at the close of these meetings."
"Our league is designed to help our ownership keep travel expenses in line," said AIFA co-founder Michael Mink. "But when the playoffs take our teams to different regions, these costs and other related costs do increase. This proposal is intended to address that issue."
"That is the great thing about Michael and John," said Reading Express Ted Lavender for This Week in the AIFA. "They've taken a huge portion of the dues and applied that toward a financial playoff package.
"It's huge. We're all very excited about it. The meetings went very well. We as team owners had a great synergy going on amongst all of us and really plowed forward to build a solid foundation for our 2009 season. I think that's what's important, and that's what's going to make the difference from the other leagues. All of these steps have made a great recipe for success for the 2009 AIFA."
"The time it (being out) bugged me the most was on game day because I would show up to the game not knowing if I would be dressing. It was really frustrating for me," he said.
In the 2008 season opener against the Arizona Rattlers, Pace (5-foot-10, 205 pounds, Arizona State) suffered a PCL tear in his right knee after being tackled on a kick return.
"It was frustrating - almost depressing," he said.
For the next four weeks he worked out, trying to avoid going on injured reserve. The knee didn't heal like he would have liked and he eventually did go on the IR. In all, he missed nine games before being re-activated on May 10 for a home game against the Colorado Crush.
Even though he was back, he wasn't.
"I couldn't even jog after the first week," he said. "I was probably 50 percent for about four weeks and all of a sudden it started to heal up pretty quickly," he said. "Even when I started playing again I was probably 85-90 percent."
In 2008 he finished with just 15 returns for 276 yards, both numbers were his lowest since 2004 when he was with the Rattlers. In 2007, he had 32 returns (four shy of his career high) for a career-high 625 yards.
Also in 2008, he tallied just five receptions for just 69 yards, one year after posting career highs in catches (111), receiving yards (1,198) and touchdowns (20).
Yoga for flexibility and weight lifting for strength has gotten Pace back to 95 percent so far this off season, but he still doesn't know how the knee will react when he starts heavy running and sprinting. He is confident, however, it will be much better because the majority of the pain in now gone.
Pace, who didn't undergo surgery, said, "the doctors said in nine months to a year I would be completely normal."
As for now, he seems to be right on pace.
In three seasons with the Blaze, Pace is tied for first all-time in franchise history in games played (34), second in receptions (188), receiving yards (2,048), kick returns (80), return yards (1,499) and all-purpose yards (3,590) and third in touchdowns (37).
To be eligible for the auditions, women must be 18 years of age or older by November 6, 2008. All participants are required to wear two-piece dancewear with a midriff top, lycra shorts and appropriate dance footwear.
The fee for the auditions is $25. Tryouts will be judged on dance ability, appearance, personality and attitude. Participants will be taught a routine and do not need to prepare their own. Those invited back will be required to attend a business interview and a boot camp the week following open auditions. The finals will be held within two weeks of the open audition.
To pre-register, women are encouraged to visit www.clevelandgladiators.com. For more information, please contact the Gladiators at 216.685.9000 x214 or email Goddesses Choreographer / Director of Community Relations Crystal Colar at ccolar@clevelandgladiators.com.
Don't miss all the hard-hitting action of the Arena Football League as the Gladiators look to bring an ArenaBowl Championship to Cleveland in 2009. Season ticket packages for the 2009 season are on sale now and can be purchased by contacting the Gladiators at 216.685.9000. Fans can also visit www.clevelandgladiators.com.
The Eskimo's took the back-to-back series over the Al's last year beating them 47-28 on September 14 of last year at home then 16-10 a week later in Montreal. The teams are currently spilt for all-time games played at 12 a piece.
Jason Goss had a huge game against Hamilton last Saturday breaking an Eskimo club record for yards on interception returns with three interceptions for 144 yards. He also became the second in CFL history for most interception return yards in a game, sitting behind Barry Ardern who had 172 yards with Ottawa in 1969. His defensive efforts got him the CFL Defensive Player of the Week accolades for week 12. Non-import running back Calvin McCarty also had a notable game with nine carries for 72 yards and one touchdown. He also completed eight receptions for 88 yards to get him the CFL Canadian Player of the Week award. McCarty stepped up in place of AJ Harris, who suffered a right knee injury early in the game, and is expected to fill the role, along with veteran running back Ron McClendon, while Harris recovers from his injury.
The Eskimos will need to play strong defensively against Anthony Calvillo and the Alouette receiving corps to stay in the game. Montreal has broken 30 points in all but two games this year. "We're going to have to disrupt their timing," says Eskimo Head Coach Danny Maciocia. "Whether we're giving them looks up front or whether we get our hands on the receivers and try to re-route them and try to get AC (Calvillo) to hold on to the football...we'll have a chance."
Notables
§ Ricky Ray needs one TD pass to pass Warren Moon for 1st in career TD passes in Eskimo history (144)
§ The Eskimos are 2-0 in their last 2 starts vs. Montreal at Molson Stadium
§ Augustin Barrenechea needs 2 tackles for 200 defensive tackles in his career
§ Last year, Sept 14 - 2007, Jason Goss had 2 interceptions for 103 yds and 1 TD. Last week, Sept 13 - 2008, Jason Goss had 3 interceptions for 144 yds and 2 TDs.
§ The Eskimos are 3-0 in their last 3 starts vs. Montreal and are 8-3 in their last 11 starts vs. Montreal (including the 2003 and 2005 Grey Cups)
§ Andrew Nowacki needs 75 yards for 1000 receiving yards in his Eskimo career
§ Fred Stamps needs 98 yards for 1000 receiving yards in his Eskimo career
§ In passing yards, Ray is 31,142 yds or 17.69 miles behind Anthony Calvillo coming into the game.
For more information on the Edmonton Eskimo Football Club please visit our website at www.esks.com.
The Peoria Pirates are holding auditions to be members of the Black Pearls for the 2009 season Saturday, October 11, 2008 at Eastside Centre, located at 1 Eastside Dr., East Peoria. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. with tryouts beginning immediately after. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older as of April 1, 2009. Candidates will be judged based on dance potential, performance, appearance and personality. Applicants do not need their own choreography. All materials will be taught at the audition. Form-fitting, two-piece attire should be worn including sports bra or cropped top and shorts, no pants. Performance hair and makeup should also be worn. Participants will be required to sign a waiver prior to taking part in any activities.
An application must be submitted along with a non-refundable $25 registration fee. For application and registration information, visit www.peoriapiratesaf2.com or email dance@peoriapiratesaf2.com.
The Stamps (7-4) are currently tied for second place in the West Division while the Argos (4-7) sit second in the East. The Stamps have won two in a row and four of their last five and are one game back of the division-leading Saskatchewan Roughriders. Quarterback Henry Burris was named the CFL's offensive player of the week after throwing for 408 yards and five touchdowns against Montreal.
The Argos have lost two in a row and four of their last five. New head coach Don Matthews will try to get his first win since rejoining the team two weeks ago.
Prior to the game, volunteers and Stampeders alumni will be stationed at each entrance gate to raise money and awareness for prostate cancer. The group will be asking for a minimum $10 donation in exchange for trendy checkered boxer shorts.
Prior to kickoff, a moment of silence will be observed for CFL Hall of Famer Ron Lancaster and former Stamps standout Reggie Lewis. Both men passed away this week.
Fans are encouraged to stay in their seats at halftime to watch the Calgary Agility Association. See the always popular, athletics dogs maneuver through obstacle courses and demonstrate their skills on the McMahon Stadium turf.
Tickets for the Toronto game are still available and fans are encouraged to call Ticketmaster at 403.777.0000 or go online at Ticketmaster.ca to purchase tickets.
Visit Stampeders.com for the latest Stampeders news including exclusive videos, blogs and behind-the-scenes access.
Last season the Vipers finished the regular season 10-6 and secured a #4 seed in the American Conference Playoffs before advancing past Florida, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, and Manchester, before defeating the Shock in the ArenaCup on August 25th.
"I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to be part of the ongoing process of building the Vipers for long term success." , said Cokinos. "The support from our community and fan base, as well as the local media has been tremendous. I love Huntsville and I am looking forward to re-starting things for the 2009 season."
Prior to becoming the Vipers sixth head coach last season, Cokinos spent time as the head coach of the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Pioneers in 2003 and the San Angelo Stampede (IFL) in 2004. He then moved on to the Nashville Kats (AFL) as an offensive assistant and personnel coordinator during the 2005 season and took over as offensive coordinator for the 2006 and 2007 seasons.
He has also coached at the collegiate level at Umass-Boston (1990), Austin Peay University (1991), and served as defensive backs coach at West Alabama (formerly Livingston University) in 1992. There he coached current Arizona Rattlers and former Vipers head coach Kevin Guy and former Vipers assistant coach Marty Hammond. Cokinos also spent time coaching in the NFL Europe.
The Vipers are currently accepting season ticket renewals until Wednesday, October 15th. Those seats that are not renewed will be available to the public on Thursday, October 16th at 8:30am. To purchase Vipers season tickets for the 2009 season, please contact the Vipers office at 256-428-HISS (4477). For more information on the Vipers, please visit their website at www.vipersaf2.com.
"Ronnie was one of the greatest football players and even more important, one of the greatest human beings I have had the privilege to know," commented Riders President/CEO Jim Hopson. "His loss will be deeply felt in Saskatchewan and across the nation as Ron touched so many people through his playing, coaching and commentator work."
Lancaster joined the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 1963 following a trade from the Ottawa Rough Riders. He spent sixteen seasons playing for the Green and White and retired from his playing days as the most prolific passer the CFL had ever seen.
Lancaster's name still tops the Roughrider record books in many categories including his 3,186 pass completions, 46,710 passing yards and 299 touchdown passes. He led the Riders to the playoffs in 14 of his 16 seasons, culminating in the Riders first every Grey Cup championship in 1966.
Ron won the Schenley Award as Most Outstanding Player in 1970 and 1976 and was a finalist for the award in 1966. He was an All-Canadian in 1970, 1973, 1975 and 1976 and a Western all-star in 1966, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1973, 1975 and 1976. He was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 1982 and the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame in 1985.
Lancaster also taught high school in Regina for 7 Ѕ years while playing for the Riders and became a player/coach from 1972 through 1978. He was the offensive coordinator in 1977 and 1978, while still running the offence at quarterback. He spent 1979 and 1980 as head coach of the Riders.
After leaving his position with the Riders, Ron joined CBC as a colour commentator on CFL broadcasts. He spent the next decade in this capacity and was described by many as one the best football commentators ever.
From 1991 to 1997, Lancaster was the head coach of the Edmonton Eskimos. He lead the Eskimos to the West Final in six of his seven seasons and won the Grey Cup in 1993. His 83 regular season head coaching wins still rank first all-time in Edmonton and he was named CFL Coach of the Year in 1993.
Lancaster took over as head coach of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in 1998 and was once again named CFL Coach of the Year. He led the team to a Grey Cup championship in 1999 and retired from coaching following the 2002 season.
While Lancaster had no official ties to the Riders since 1980 he continued to support the team through the years with numerous appearances. To recognize and thank him for all his support to the organization a giant banner of Ron was erected on the west faзade of Mosaic Stadium in 2006.
"We could never thank Ron enough for everything he did for the Roughriders and the community. He left behind a legacy to this province as arguably the greatest and most popular player of all time," concluded Hopson.
He is survived by wife his wife Beth, three children Lana, Ron and Bob and his four grandchildren.
Lancaster was the head coach of the Eskimos from 1991-1997, appearing in the Grey Cup twice (1993, 1996) and winning the championship in 1993. He won more games as head coach of the Eskimos than any other coach.
Ron became the head coach of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in 1998 and was most recently the club's senior adviser to organizational development.
Ron had a brilliant 19-year CFL playing career with Ottawa and Saskatchewan. He spent his first three seasons with Ottawa, winning the Grey Cup in his first season in 1960. He was then traded to Saskatchewan and led the 'Riders to the playoffs 14 of his 16 seasons. He is third all-time on the CFL's career list with 3,384 pass completions, 6,233 pass attempts and 50,535 yards passing. Ron won the Schenley Award as most outstanding player in 1970 and 1976 and was a finalist for the award in 1966. He was an All-Canadian in 1970, 1973, 1975 and 1976 and a Western all-star in 1966, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1973, 1975 and 1976. He was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 1982 and the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame in 1985.
Ron also had a successful career with CBC.
Former teammate and close friend Hugh Campbell says, "Ron Lancaster was exactly what you got. His words and body language were unfiltered. Ron's love for Bev and family was always at the center of his life. He believed in hard work and thoroughly enjoyed his interaction with the huge variety of people in his life. Ronnie would turn a simple conversation with someone he knew forever or a fan he just met into a fun experience. I have a really good book's worth of info going through my head, but it's a struggle to put it into words. We were kids when we met and our families have been great friends." Ron and Hugh first met 45 years ago almost to the week in 1963.
Ron is survived by his wife Bev, sons Ron (Paula), Bobby (Kimberly), daughter Lana (Larry) and grandchildren Mark, Brittany,
Brie-Anne and Alexus.
QUOTES:
Eskimo President and CEO Rick LeLacheur - "This is a profound loss. He was a tremendous competitor, leader, mentor and friend. There are few people who have left as big an impact on our league as Ron Lancaster. Our deepest condolences to his family and many friends."
Former Eskimo Sean Fleming (1992 - 2008) - "A great man, simple but right to the point. Ron was a person people gravitated to. Loyal to his players almost to a fault, genuine to those he didn't know. Ron always said that the biggest compliment you could give a football player was to call him just that, a player. Someone who went out and did their job without any other reason but for the love of the game and for those around him. Ron was all that and more, he was a player, he was a coach, but most of all he was a great man."
Former Eskimo quarterback Tom Wilkinson (1972 - 81) - "He was just a great guy. A tremendous football player. I remember when we first went to the Grey Cup in '73 and that was the team you had to get by and no matter what the score was, if they had the ball late in the game they had the chance to win it. And he was just an all-around great guy".
Former Eskimo linebacker Willie Pless (1991 - '98) - "Ron was the best head coach I played for in my 14 years in the CFL. He had been in the trenches himself so he was a "players coach", who put a tremendous amount of trust and faith in his veteran players."
Former Eskimo Larry Wruck (1985-'96) - "I have seen very few people cry in football but I'll always remember the tears of joy rolling down Coach Lancaster's face after we won the '93 Grey Cup. He was just so passionate about the game of football."
Think you can play pro football? Here is your chance of a Lifetime!
Location Victory Sports Arena 425 Wild Ave Staten Island NY 10314
Date Saturday September 27, 2008
Workout 11:00am to 1:00pm Testing: 40yd dash-20 yd shuttle-L Agility Drill-225 Bench ( most positions)
Registration: 1/2 hr prior to start of workout
Fee: $60.00 payable in cash day of workout
Attire: No cleats, spikes or track shoes. Wear workout clothing
Equipment: No equipment necessary
Field Surface: Indoor Turf Field
Vitory Sports Arena A 40000sq ft. regional indoor recreational complex that houses a full-sized turf indoor arena to accommodate year round play
Tryout is for: QB,WR,RB,FB,TE,OL,DL,LB,DB,K
FREE REVS Tryout Camp T-Shirt (While Supplies Last)
Note: The REVS are concentrating on local talent NY/NJ/PA/CT. The REVS Roster last season consisted of over 90% local players signed directly from our open player tryouts.
TRYOUT RECORDS
40 YD DASH: Varun Om 4.28
20 YD SHUTTLE: Johonus Tillery 3.93
L AGILITY DRILL: Johonus Tillery 6.67
225 BENCH PRESS REPS: AJ DeFalco 48
Goss broke the Eskimo club record for yards on interception returns on Saturday night as the Eskimos defeated the Tiger-Cats at Commonwealth Stadium. He also became second in CFL history for most interception return yards in a game, sitting behind Barry Ardern who had 172 yards with Ottawa in 1969. Goss had 144 yards on three interceptions and two touchdowns.
A minute into the game, Goss intercepted a Casey Printers' pass and returned it 50 yards to the end zone to get the Eskimos on the board early. Midway through the 3rd quarter, Goss picked off another Printers' pass and returned it 94 yards for a touchdown. His third pick came just a minute later.
Goss also tied Eskimo records for interception touchdowns in a game (2) and interceptions in a game (3).
McCarty stepped up when starting running back AJ Harris suffered a knee injury in the first quarter. McCarty rushed nine times for a total of 72 yards and one touchdown and had eight receptions for 88 yards. He also helped out on special teams recording one tackle. McCarty is sitting with 30 carries on the year for a total of 227 yards.
The Eskimos head to Montreal to face the East division leaders, the Alouettes on Sunday, September 21. Kickoff at 1pm (ET). 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.
Burris completed 24 of 38 passes for 408 yards and five touchdowns (to five different players) and rushed for 35 yards on five carries. His fifth touchdown pass of the night - a four-yarder to Jeremaine Copeland - moved Burris past Jeff Garcia into second place on the Stamps' all-time list for touchdown passes. Burris has delivered 107 majors as a member of the Red and White.
Burris is currently enjoying a career season and has completed 243 of 370 passes (65.3 per cent) for 3,253 yards, 23 touchdowns and nine interceptions.
This is the first time Burris has been named player of the week in 2008 and he's just the third Stamps player to get the nod. Kicker Sandro DeAngelis (special teams) and defensive end Mike Labinjo (Canadian) earned the honour in Week 9.
The next Stampeders game is at McMahon Stadium against the Toronto Argonauts on Sept. 20. Fans are encouraged to contact Ticketmaster at 403.777.0000 or go online to Ticketmaster.ca to purchase tickets.
Players of the Week are selected for on-field excellence by members of the Canadian football broadcasters.
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK
QB - Henry Burris - Calgary Stampeders
Montreal Alouettes 30 @ Calgary Stampeders 41
Highlights / Key Stats:
Henry Burris had one of his best days as a CFL quarterback in the Calgary Stampeders 41-30 victory over the visiting Montreal Alouettes. Burris completed 24 of 38 passes for 408 yards and a CFL season high 5 touchdown passes with no interceptions. Burris ended the game with a passer efficiency rating of 143.3 and added five rushes for 35 yards.
Henry Burris has thrown for 3,253 yards and 23 touchdowns this season against only nine interceptions. He has completed 65.3 percent of his passes and has a passer efficiency rating of 103.5. Burris has also rushed 48 times for 358 yards and two touchdowns. He
- Unanimous Selection -
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK
DB - Jason Goss - Edmonton Eskimos
Hamilton Tiger-Cats 33 @ Edmonton Eskimos 38
Highlights / Key Stats:
Jason Goss had five tackles to go along with CFL season highs of three interceptions and two defensive touchdowns in the Eskimos 38-33 victory over the visiting Tiger-Cats. Goss intercepted three Casey Printers passes and brought two back for touchdowns totaling 144 interception return yards. Goss was also integral on the most critical play of the game when he and Montez Murphy knocked the ball out of Printers hands for the game winning turnover.
Jason Goss has 26 tackles, one sack, four interceptions and a forced fumble for the season.
- Unanimous Selection -
SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER OF THE WEEK
KR/PR - Stefan Logan - B.C. Lions
Saskatchewan Roughriders 23 @ B.C. Lions 28
Highlights / Key Stats:
Stefan Logan displayed his elusiveness in the return game as the B.C. Lions beat the Saskatchewan Roughriders 28-23. Logan returned four kicks for 128 yards and five punts for 48 yards in the victory.
Logan has become an effective tool for coach Wally Buono in all facets of the game this season. He has 213 receiving yards, 500 rushing yards, 79 punt return yards and 209 kick return yards.
Runner Up
KR/PR - Dominique Dorsey - Toronto Argonauts
CANADIAN PLAYER OF THE WEEK
RB - Calvin McCarty - Edmonton Eskimos
Hamilton Tiger-Cats 33 @ Edmonton Eskimos 38
Highlights / Key Stats:
Calvin McCarty replaced the injured AJ Harris early in the Eskimos game against the Tiger-Cats and they did not miss a beat. McCarty used a power running style to gain 72 yards and a touchdown on nine carries and showed the ability to be an all-around running back by catching a CFL high eight catches for 88 yards.
Calvin McCarty has 227 rushing yards and a touchdown on 30 carries this season. He also has 35 catches and 322 receiving yards.
- Unanimous Selection -
Offensive Players of the Week
Player Team Week
Anthony Calvillo Montreal 1
Ricky Ray Edmonton 2
Jarious Jackson B.C. 3
Kerry Joseph Toronto 4
Ryan Dinwiddie Winnipeg 5
Ricky Ray Edmonton 6
Richie Williams Hamilton 7
Avon Cobourne Montreal 8
A.J. Harris Edmonton 9
Ricky Ray Edmonton 10
Michael Bishop Saskatchewan 11
Henry Burris Calgary 12
Defensive Players of the Week
Player Team Week
Willie Middlebrooks Toronto 1
Cam Wake B.C. 2
Javier Glatt B.C. 3
Reggie Hunt Montreal 4
Montez Murphy Edmonton 5
Jonathan Brown Toronto 6
Chris Thompson Hamilton 7
Keron Williams Montreal 8
Dario Romero Edmonton 9
Mark Estelle Montreal 10
Cam Wake B.C. 11
Jason Goss Edmonton 12
Special Teams Players of the Week
Player Team Week
Damon Duval Montreal 1
Dominique Dorsey Toronto 2
Tristan Jackson Edmonton 3
Tristan Jackson Edmonton 4
Ian Smart B.C. 5
Dominique Dorsey Toronto 6
Damon Duval Montreal 7
Dominique Dorsey Toronto 8
Sandro DeAngelis Calgary 9
Dominique Dorsey Toronto 10
Larry Taylor Montreal 11
Stefan Logan B.C. 12
Canadian Players of the Week
Player Team Week
Mike O'Shea Toronto 1
Jesse Lumsden Hamilton 2
Jesse Lumsden Hamilton 3
Paris Jackson B.C. 4
Paris Jackson B.C. 5
Ben Cahoon Montreal 6
Brent Johnson B.C. 7
Davis Sanchez Montreal 8
Mike Labinjo Calgary 9
Kamau Peterson Edmonton 10
Jason Clermont B.C. 11
Calvin McCarty Edmonton 12
Everyone who feels they have what it takes to be a professional athlete is encouraged to participate. The tryout fee is only $65 and includes a voucher for the 2009 home opener. Detailed information and pre-registration forms can be found at www.okcyarddawgz.com or by calling 405-228-3294.
The Yard Dawgz have signed players from open tryouts in the past. The Yard Dawgz were assigned seven players from the 2008 open tryout including kicker Ben Scott and WR/DB Jared Smith. The most notable tryout signing is former University of Oklahoma athlete, Howard Duncan, who was assigned to the Yard Dawgz in 2005. Duncan is now on the active roster for the Columbus Destroyers of the Arena Football League and started all 16 regular season games for the Destroyers in 2008 and 2007.
Coach McEwen is committed to helping players advance to the next level and has seen numerous players succeed in the AFL and NFL. Following the 2008 season, Yard Dawgz OL Kelly Butler was invited to training camp for the NFL's Arizona Cardinals.
"This is our first step in building our 2009 championship team," said Head Coach Sparky McEwen. "We are excited about the quality of talent that we will be able to evaluate from."
The Yard Dawgz compete within the arenafootball2 league with regular season games being played April through July in downtown Oklahoma City.
Season tickets start as low as $56 and are now available! Call 405.228.3294 or visit www.okcyarddawgz.com for more information.
"Over the past couple of months Thurman and I have become extremely good friends," stated Bartosiewicz, "It's a great thing for this team and the future of football in Rochester. He is very excited about joining our organization."
Thomas states one of his reasons for joining the current Raiders ownership, 'The Raiders are one of the finest indoor football franchises in the country.' Thomas also owns Thurman Thomas Sports, headquartered at Sahlen Sports Park in Elma, New York, which includes the Thurman Thomas Football Academy and Thurman Thomas Sports Fitness.
The Raiders have also officially joined the newly formed IFL (Indoor Football League) for the 2009 season and beyond. The IFL was formed last month when the United Indoor Football League (UIF) and the Intense Football League (IFL) merged together to form a new IFL. The Raiders will bring in the longest active winning streak, which currently stands at 26 games to the new league.
"This is going to be an amazing league," stated Raiders co-owner Bob Bartosiewicz after returning from the IFL owners meetings last week in Omaha, NE. "They have compiled the best indoor teams in the country and put them all into one league. It is going to be extremely competitive and a lot of fun for our fans and the City of Rochester."
A final number of teams for the 2009 season has not yet been finalized but it is estimated that there will be in the upwards of 20 teams including perennial powerhouses the Louisiana Swashbucklers, Billings Outlaws, Omaha Beef and Sioux Fall Storm. Both Louisiana and Sioux Falls were in talks with the Raiders following the 2008 season to play against each other but due to scheduling conflicts the game was not played. The IFL will be an 8 on 8 indoor football league but some rules will differ from the typical 8 on 8 format and be geared more toward the 11 on 11 style of play. The 2009 season will kickoff in the spring.
Coleman signed as a free agent with the Arizona Cardinals earlier this year and was released in August. He later signed with the Jets but was released on August 26, 2008. He was a three year starter at Mississippi Valley State playing both right and left tackle but starting his career at tight end. In 2006 he produced 83 knockdowns and 8 touchdown resulting blocks at left tackle which would earn him first team All-Southwestern Athletic Conference honours for that season. He finished his senior year with 103 knockdowns, and nine touchdown resulting blocks.
57
Thaddeus Coleman
OL
(Import)
Mississippi Valley State
Born: June 20, 1985 -
Height: 6'8 Weight: 310
Yrs Esks: 1st
Yrs CFL: 1st
The Edmonton Eskimo Football Club would like to thank all the winners for their generous support. The huge reaction received by the auction proves, once again, that the Eskimos do have the greatest fans in the CFL.
The Eskimos head to Montreal to face the East division leaders, the Alouettes on Sunday, September 21. Kickoff at 1pm (ET). 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 club inked non-import defensive end Troy Cunningham, as well as a pair of imports - defensive lineman Dorian Smith and defensive back/returner Justin Phinisee.
Cunningham (DOB: Oct. 29, 1981 in Kingston, Ontario), a product of Concordia University, was originally selected in the fifth round (40th overall) of the 2004 Canadian College draft by the B.C. Lions. He spent time with the Lions and Hamilton Tiger-Cats during the 2005 and 2006 seasons, playing eight games with the Tiger-Cats over those two years.
Smith (DOB: August 19, 1985 in Van Nuys, California) was recently cut by the Washington Redskins after playing his collegiate football with Oregon State. The 6-3, 280 pounder started as a senior in 2007 with the Beavers.
Phinisee, a seventh round pick of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2006, has spent time with Kansas City Chiefs, New England Patriots, St. Louis Rams and Dallas Cowboys. Phinisee (DOB: April 10, 1983 in Long Beach, California), a starter throughout his collegiate career at Oregon, measures 5-11 and 200 pounds.
Kicker Sandro DeAngelis is the Stamps spokesperson for the Timbits Football program. He has participated as a honourary coach the past few seasons and this is his first time acting as the spokesperson. DeAngelis, along with other Stampeders players act as honourary coaches for Timbits games that take place at McMahon Stadium.
The 2008 program started with games on Sept. 8 and will continue Sept. 15, 22, 29 and Oct. 6. The games take place under the lights at McMahon Stadium from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
The Stampeders will once again feature the Timbits Football program at half-time on Oct. 18 as the Stampeders take on the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
The Timbits Minor Sports Program is a community-oriented sponsorship program for children who participate in local sports teams. The program's philosophy is not based on winning or losing but on learning a new sport, meeting new friends and taking time to be a kid. The program is for kids between the ages of eight and 10 (atom division), providing them with a fun, positive experience that will encourage them to participate in clubs, teams and other activities in their lives.
For more information on Timbits Football, please call 403.291.4443.
The next Stampeders home game is against the Toronto Argonauts on Sept. 20. Fans are encouraged to contact Ticketmaster at 403.777.0000 or go online to Ticketmaster.ca to get their tickets.
The two franchises are as follows:
- Everett, Washington - the team would begin play in the 2009 IFL season at Comcast Arena at Everett.
- Kent, Washington - the team would begin play in the 2010 IFL season at the Kent Events Center.
West Coast Sports CEO Michael Tuckman presented proposals for Everett and Kent at the IFL meetings held this week in Omaha, Nebraska. Tuckman would serve as owner of both teams.
Paul Aaron, IFL Executive Director, said Everett and Kent are key components to the league's Northwest strategy.
"With all of the recent positive developments in the IFL, we are extremely optimistic about Michael Tuckman and West Coast Sports leading the charge in our future expansion plans in the Pacific Northwest," Aaron said.
The October 11th tryout will be held at the Shock Center, 3212 North Eden Road, beginning at 8 AM. The November 1st tryout will be held in Seattle at the University of Washington's indoor practice facility, the Dempsey Center beginning at 8 AM. This will be the first tryout the Shock have held in Seattle since the inception of the franchise.
"We are going to make every effort to find the best players locally and across the state and having a tryout here in Spokane and in Seattle allows us to do that," Head Coach Adam Shackleford said.
The cost of the try-out is $50, for those who pre-register, and $75 at the door. Registration forms are available at www.spokaneshock.com
The playing surface for both tryouts is turf and prospective players are asked to dress appropriately with athletic shoes, shorts and a t-shirt; all other equipment will be provided by the Shock. The format of the tryout will be a pro-style combine. Players will run through the following drills: 1) vertical jump 2) shuttle run 3) 40-yard dash and 4) the broad jump. Select players may be invited to stay for position drills and scrimmaging.
Season tickets orders for the 2009 season are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (509) 242 7462.
"This is a great day for Maryland football fans," stated Owner Messay Hailemariam. "Maryland is home to two great professional football teams, the Ravens and Redskins, and we are proud to bring the great fans of this state indoor football and their third professional franchise."
The IFL, which was formed for the 2009 season with the merger of the United Indoor Football (UIF) league and the Intense Football League (IFL), is currently reviewing possible additional expansion markets and members of other leagues for admission to the Omaha, Nebraska based league.
The Maniacs, who will call Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro home, are the first expansion member of the IFL. They will play alongside some of the most storied franchises in indoor football history including the Billings Outlaws, Omaha Beef, Sioux City Bandits, and Sioux Falls Storm, all of which will be entering their 10th season in 2009.
The league is quickly becoming recognized as a "league of champions" as it includes the Storm, who won their fourth consecutive UIF title in 2008, the Louisiana Swashbucklers, who won their second consecutive Intense Football League title in 2008 after going 17-0, the Saginaw Sting who captured the 2008 Continental Indoor Football League (CIFL) crown, and the Rochester Raiders, who currently hold a 22-game winning streak and won the CIFL title in 2007.
The Maniacs' ownership group is comprised of Hailemariam, Alvin "Jerome" Nichols II, and David Yee. Hailemariam and Yee are graduates of the University of Maryland. Nichols graduated from Sidwell Friends School in Washington D.C., and following his career at Wake Forest University, was a free agent signee of the Washington Redskins.
For more information on the Maryland Maniacs please visit www.marylandmaniacs.com.
Registration for the open player tryout begins at 11:30 a.m. with the workout beginning promptly at 1:00 p.m. The Multiplex is located at 18909 South Miles Road, Warrensville Heights, Ohio, 44128. All participants must be 18 years of age or older.
The cost of participating in the open player tryout is $65 pre-registered and $75 for registering the day of the event. To pre-register, interested participants must pay by credit card by visiting www.clevelandgladiators.com and completing the appropriate form. The pre-registration deadline is Wednesday, October 8 at 5:00 p.m. Cash or money order will be the only accepted payment the day of the tryout. Both fees are non-refundable.
Gladiators Head Coach MIKE WILPOLT and his staff will be evaluating all players in attendance.
Players will be tested in the 40-yard dash, short shuttle and 225-pound bench press. In addition, players will be evaluated in a variety of one-on-one position skills.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
** To be considered for pre-registration, the Gladiators must receive payment and the online form by Wednesday, October 8 at 5:00 p.m.
** The open player tryout will be conducted on Astroturf and field turf, so participants are encouraged to wear appropriate footwear (NO SPIKES).
** Only water will be provided
** A trainer will be on hand for emergencies only - not for player taping.
** There is no full-contact, thus, no need for shoulder pads
** Kickers will not be evaluated during this tryout.
For more information, please contact the Cleveland Gladiators Football Operations Department at 216.662.9823 or email at media@clevelandgladiators.com
Don't miss all the hard-hitting action of the Arena Football League as the Gladiators look to bring an ArenaBowl Championship to Cleveland in 2009. Season ticket packages for the 2009 season are on sale now and can be purchased by contacting the Gladiators at 216.685.9000. Fans can also visit www.clevelandgladiators.com.
The Mariners have signed RB/DB Isaiah "Zeke" Grier (6'-1" 215 lbs) for the 2009 season. Grier played football at the University of Rhode Island. Grier has spent time in the indoor ranks at all professional levels with his most recent stop in Reading, PA. Grier was an important piece of the AIFA Reading Express Championship runs in 2006 and 2007. Grier, who played with Mariners GM Greg Justice in Reading, is a tremendous two way athlete that can make an impact in all three phases of the game. "It was a pleasure to play with Zeke in 2006 and 2007", stated Mariners GM Greg Justice. "It is a tremendous honor to know that Zeke is now going to be part of a very talented team here with me in Baltimore. There is no doubt that Zeke will be among the leagues top backs in 2009." Coach Simpson says, "Isaiah is the complete package at running back. He gives us a lot of versatility on both sides of the ball. His skills will allow us to do more offensively to keep defenses off balanced. "
In another big signing, the Mariners have signed DL/LB Fearon Wright (6'-2" 245 lbs) for the 2009 season. Wright also played football at the University of Rhode Island. Wright, who played for the NFL Minnesota Vikings in 2001 and most recently for the AIFA Carolina Speed in 2008, looks to make an immediate impact on the Mariners roster. "Fearon is a tremendous athlete and will be a big impact player for us on defense at linebacker and defensive line", says Head Coach Chris Simpson. Mariners GM Greg Justice had this to say about this new acquisition. "I have watched Fearon and played against him. Fearon is a fierce competitor on the field and will not stop until the whistle blows. This 2009 Mariner Defensive unit is shaping up to give opposing teams a lot to handle. "
The Mariners will conduct their first open tryout on October 12 at Freestate Arena. For more information on the tryout, and other exciting news about the Baltimore Mariners, visit our website at www. baltimoremariners. com.
Hamilton (2-8) is coming off a loss to the BC Lions and is tied at the bottom of the East Division with Winnipeg. On Monday they announced Offensive Coordinator Marcel Bellefeuille will take over from Charlie Taafe as the team's head coach.
These two teams met in Hamilton back in July with the Esks taking home a 19-13 victory.
The Eskimo receivers should be seeing a lot of action on Saturday night. The Esks currently lead the league in passing with 332.6 passing yards/game, while the Tiger-Cat defence is last in the league in passing defence.
"We've got to take their record and toss it out the window. We better not get caught up in numbers," says Eskimo Head Coach Danny Maciocia. "We've got to get ready to play and play them tough. It's going to be a physical battle because that's the way they've always played. And we've got to win that battle."
The Eskimos have signed receiver Maurice Mann this past Wednesday. "I'm not sure how quickly we can get him activated. The question is how much he can pick up here in the next little while," says Maciocia. "Once he's ready to go I want him on the roster because I want to see him play." Mann recently attended the Washington Redskins training camp where caught 11 passes in the NFL preseason - second-most on the Redskins roster - but was cut on the final day of training camp. Mann will be a vital addition to the already strong receiving corps.
Notables
§ Ricky Ray needs one TD pass to tie Warren Moon for 1st in career TD passes in Eskimo history (144)
§ This is game 1 of 4 consecutive games vs. East Division opponents for the Eskimos
§ The Eskimos are 7-4 on this date (2-0 at home)
§ Noel Prefontaine needs 70 punt yards for 60,000 punt yards in his career. He would be the 9th CFL player to do so.
§ Andrew Nowacki needs 75 yards for 1,000 receiving yards in his Eskimo career
The Eskimos host the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Saturday, September 13 at 5:00pm. Buy Eskimo tickets online at ticketmaster.ca or call 451-8000. For more information on the Edmonton Eskimo Football Club please visit our website at www.esks.com.
The tryout, which is open to players not currently enrolled in college or who have exhausted their eligibility, will be similar in format to Standard Football Combine standards. The day-long session will begin with registration at 8 a.m. and workouts starting promptly at 9 a.m. The SaberCats practice facility is located at 1095 Dunford Way, Sunnyvale, 94086.
Interested participants are encouraged to pre-register on the SaberCats official website www.sanjosesabercats.com at a cost of $65. A fee of $75 will be charged on the day of the tryout payable by cash or money order, and a waiver release form will need to be signed.
All players will be weighed and measured, followed by tests in the 40-yard dash, 20-yard shuttle, broadjump and 225-pound bench press. In addition, participants will take part in a series of position specific drills and one-on-ones.
SaberCats' head coach Darren Arbet and his staff will evaluate all players attending.
For more tryout information log on to www.sanjosesabercats.com and click the open player tryout link or contact the player personnel department at (408) 573-5577.
A premiere franchise in the Arena Football League, San Jose has won three ArenaBowl championships and captured seven Western Division titles, nine consecutive playoff appearances and owns the league's best regular season record this decade.
Season tickets for the 2009 season are now on sale. Contact a SaberCats account executive at (408) 573-5577 today to reserve your season seats for only $50.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
-- To be considered pre-registered, the SaberCats must receive the tryout fee and pre-registration form by September 19.
-- Checks will not be accepted on day of tryout
-- There is no full contact and therefore no need for shoulder pads
-- A team trainer will be on hand for emergencies but not for player taping
-- No player film will be accepted on day of workout
-- There are no refunds for missed workouts
-- Kickers will be tested for accuracy, distance and hang time
Thursday night the Thunder Dance Team finals were held at Toby Keith's I Love This Bar and Grill in Bricktown. At the end of the night the list of 41 finalists was cut to 20, with 12 having Yard Dawgz Dance Team experience.
"I'm very proud that 12 of our current and former dancers are able to continue dancing professionally for another team during our offseason," commented Yard Dawgz Dance Team Coordinator Brandy Corcoran. "This experience will only benefit the Yard Dawgz Dance Team and will help us to maintain our position as one of the top dance teams in af2."
Congratulations to the following Yard Dawgz Dancers and new OKC Thunder Dance Team members:
Amy J. (2008)
Brittany G. (2008)
Brittany W. (2005-2008)
Cristhian G. (2004, 2007-2008)
Crystal C. (2008)
Erica H. (2006-2008)
Hayley R. (2008)
Jada J. (2008)
LaTeshia D. (2008)
Lindsey G. (2004)
Nicole C. (2006)
Shereka J. (2007-2008)
The Yard Dawgz Dance Team was awarded the af2's second best dance team following the 2008 season. For photos and videos of the Yard Dawgz Dance Team, visit www.okcyarddawgz.com.
Yard Dawgz season tickets are now available and start at only $69! Call 405-228-3294 or visit www.okcyarddawgz.com for more information.
All profits from the day will go to the Success For Youth Foundation, whose mission is to promote education in Quebec, and the Garde-Manger Pour Tous organization, which distributes over 2,800 warm meals daily to underprivileged children in Montreal.
Each foursome will be joined by a current or former Alouette, including such big names as Anthony Calvillo, Ben Cahoon, Matthieu Proulx, Larry Smith, Йric Lapointe and Peter Dalla Riva.
As well, several exclusive pieces of Alouettes memorabilia will be auctioned off at the end of the day to further up the financial contribution offered to these wonderful charitable organizations.
The new teams joining the IFL are:
- The Lehigh Valley Outlawz, based in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, play at Lehigh University's Stabler Arena. The Outlawz began play in 2004 and will begin their sixth season of play and hold a lifetime record of 37-21-1. Lehigh Valley is owned by Jim DePaul.
- The Muskegon Thunder, located in Muskegon, Michigan, play at L.C. Walker Arena. The Thunder will begin their third season of play and have tallied a lifetime record of 9-17. Muskegon is owned by Don and Julia Pringle.
- The Rochester Raiders, based in Rochester, New York, play at Blue Cross Arena. Rochester currently holds a 24-game winning streak and was the 2007 champions in another league. The Raiders will begin their fourth season of play and hold a lifetime record of 34-7 in three seasons. Rochester is owned by Dave McCarthy and Bob Bartosiewicz.
- The Saginaw Sting, based in Saginaw, Michigan, play at the Dow Event Center. The Sting will begin their second season of play. Saginaw was champion of another league in 2008 and holds a career record of 13-2 after one season. Saginaw is owned by Mike Trumbull and Esteban Rivera.
- A yet-to-be-named expansion franchise, based in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, will play at the Show Place Arena. The Maryland franchise is owned by Messay Hailemariam.
Paul Aaron, IFL Executive Director, said the five teams will help solidify an eastern presence as the IFL continues to build their national footprint.
"While today was a very exciting and important day in the development and expansion of the new Indoor Football League, there are even more exciting days ahead!" Aaron said. "We fully expect to receive a significant number of additional applications in the next 30 days. Upon review and acceptance of those applications, the new IFL will, in my opinion, be most dynamic indoor football in America."
The Indoor Football League was born out of a merger between United Indoor Football and the Intense Football League. The year 2009 will be the inaugural season for the league. For more information about the league, please contact Paul Aaron (praaron@unitedindoorfootball.com) or Tommy Benizio (tommyb@roughnecksifl.com).
"He is a winning coach, period," said Rage President Art Clarkson. "Every place he has been, he's won. Sioux Falls (S.D.) has won the league title four consecutive years - that will end this year. My feeling is that with Coach Richards we will dominate the league."
Richards has a football coaching career that spans the better part of the last decade, including extensive experience specializing in the indoor variation of the game. He has worked with five arena/indoor football teams, including four stints as a Head Coach.
Richards comes to the Rage after coaching the past two years for the Rock River Raptors, an indoor football team based in Rockford, Ill. As the Head Coach and Director of Football Operations, Richards guided the Raptors to the United Football League (UIF) Central Division Championship in 2006 and the Eastern Conference crown in '07. In two seasons, the Raptors led the UIF in pass defense and ranked second in overall defense and third against rush where he amassed a 22-11 record as the Head Coach.
A native of Seattle, Wash., Richards' coaching career began at the University of Mary in Bismarck, N.D. He spent two years at the NAIA-member institution coaching the tight ends and assisting with recruiting. In addition to his coaching prowess, Richards has also worked as the Associate Vice President of Collegiate Scouting for the Florida-based Scouting Bureau/Draft Data Association. His duties included evaluating and researching current college talent through camps, combines, game film and interviews.
"Rik Richards is a true professional who has a long lasting tradition of winning football teams under his tutelage and we are exciting to have him aboard," said Rage Owner Jeff Sprowls.
For information on RiverCity Rage football, contact the Rage Front Office at (636) 946-RAGE or log on to www.ragefootball.com.
