Predators Can't Complete Comeback Versus Wild
Lack of Consistency on Offense Proves to Be Downfall
Anchorage, AK: One streak ended on Monday night in Alaska, but not one the Predators would have liked. By defeating the Predators 48-39, the Alaska Wild snapped an 18 game losing streak that has dated back to 2008. The loss drops Kent to 0-2 on the young season, and into an early hole in the Pacific North Division.
The Predators first drive was an indication of their inconsistent performance on offense all evening. A quick four and out led to excellent field position for Alaska, and they capitalized with a 20 yard field goal by Jeremy Johnson. However, the Predators answered back with a five play drive that resulted in a Charles McCullum touchdown pass to Travis Poole. After a missed extra point the scoreboard read 6-3. Unfortunately it would be the Predators last lead of the night.
Alaska rattled off 20 consecutive second quarter points via a Donald Carrie touchdown pass, an Andrew Carich run, and an interception return for a score of a McCullum pass to go up 23-6. The offense was able to slash the lead heading into the half courtesy of two McCullum touchdown passes to Poole and Andre Jordan respectively. The halftime score was 23-18.
In the second half, the Predators could not regain the momentum they were building at the end of the first thirty minutes of the game. The penalties that haunted the team in their first game against the Outlaws were an issue once more and gave the team a disadvantage in terms of field position and sustaining drives. The Predators could not adjust in time to make a comeback, and at the end of the game, the scoreboard read 48 to 39 in favor of the Wild. The team doesn’t get much time to rest as they prepare for their home opener this Friday, March 12th against divisional opponent, the Fairbanks Grizzlies. The Grizzlies are 2-0 on the season, so the Predators will have to be on top of their game. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Tickets are still available, and fans can purchase their tickets by logging on to www.kentpredators.com or by calling the team’s office at 253-239-3254.
Game Notes: McCullum threw for five scores and ran for another, with one interception…WR’s Andre Jordan and Travis Poole each caught two touchdown passes…The win was the Alaska Wild’s first as member of the Indoor Football League.
Predators Look to Even Record Tonight Against Wild
Kickoff in Anchorage Scheduled for 8:05 PST
Kent, WA: After an opening night loss to the IFL Defending Champion Billings Outlaws last week, the Kent Predators are eager to get back on the field and notch the first win in team history. Their first chance comes tonight as the team heads north to Anchorage to square off against the Alaska Wild. This will be the first of three matchups between the two Pacific North Division foes this season. Kickoff from the Sullivan Arena is slated for 8:05 p.m. Pacific Standard Time.
The Predators, lead by Quarterback Charles McCullum, will look to gain an early advantage against a Wild Defense that gave up only 29 points in their opening night loss last week against the Fairbanks Grizzlies. The Wild are currently in the midst of an 18 game losing streak, spanning over three seasons, but looked vastly improved from last year’s team that finished 0-14. This is the first of two games within a five day period for Kent.
Look for McCullum to once again look early and often at receivers Eric Taylor and Andre Jordan. In last week’s game, the two combined for 180 yards receiving and three touchdowns against one of the Indoor Football League’s premier defensive units. Also a scoring threat for the Predators is Kick Returner Jarvious Dunn. The Week One IFL Special Teams Player of the Week had four returns for a total of 121 yards, which was good for an average of 30.3 yards per return. Playing on just a 50 yard field, Dunn continually gave the offense great starting field position.
Those wishing to watch this evening’s game can log onto www.b2tv.com and purchase a season or individual game pass. The Predators first home contest is scheduled for Friday, March 12th at the ShoWare Center in Kent at 7:30 p.m. Season and Individual tickets are still available by calling the team office at 253-239-3254, or by visiting the Predators site at www.kentpredators.com.
Predators Dunn Named Special Teams Player of the Week
Kick Returner Averages 30.3 Yards Per Return in Opening Night Defeat
Kent, WA: In release made today, the league office of the Indoor Football League announced that Kent Predators Kick Returner Jarvious Dunn was selected as the Week One VidSwap.com Special Teams Player of the Week for his efforts in the team’s opening night loss to the Billings Outlaws.
Dunn, and all-purpose player for the expansion franchise, continually gave the Predators offense excellent field position throughout the game with deep returns into Outlaws territory. He averaged 30.3 yards per return with a long of 49 yards, and just narrowly missed taking one in for a touchdown. By the second half, Billings was thinking twice about putting the ball deep to Dunn. Despite his individual performance however, the Predators fell to the defending IFL Champions 56-40 on the league’s opening weekend.
The league also announced that Sioux City Quarterback James McNear and Billings Defensive Lineman Michael Bazemore were selected as the Offensive and Defensive Players of the Week respectively. Fans who would like to see highlights of these players performance’s from week one should log onto the IFL website at www.goifl.com and click on the VidSwap.com Player of the Week icon’s.
Dunn and the rest of his Predator teammates are back in action this coming Monday against division foe Alaska Wild. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:05 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. Those wishing to watch the game can log onto www.b2tv.com and purchase a season or individual game pass. The Predators first home contest is scheduled for Friday, March 12th at the ShoWare Center in Kent at 7:30 p.m. Season and Individual tickets are still available by calling the team office at 253-239-3254, or by visiting the Predators site at www.kentpredators.com.
Predators Fall Short in Opener
Penalties Come Back to Haunt Team in Second Half
Billings, MT: Playing in their first game in team history, the Kent Predators had the defending IFL Champion Billings Outlaws on their heals for much of the first half. However, their inexperience began to show after the second half kickoff and they eventually fell 56-40 in front of over 6,000 fans at the Rimrock Auto Arena.
The Predators began the game by silencing the home crowd still excited after a pre-game ring ceremony to honor the 2009 United Bowl Champions. After converting a long 4th down conversion on the drive, and marching the team down field, Quarterback Charles McCullum handed the ball off to Carlo Heard from the Outlaws 2 yard line for the first touchdown in team history. It only took the Outlaws one play to answer back however, as 2009 IFL Player of the Year Chris Dixon found Receiver James Walton for a 43 yard touchdown strike and get within one point.
After going down 13-7, McCullum again drove down the length of the field and found receiver Eric Taylor for a four yard strike in the corner endzone to knot the score at 13. Then, after a rare stop of the explosive Outlaws offense, Kent once again took the lead as McCullum launched a bomb from his own 1 yard line that was hauled in for a 49 yard score by Andre Jordan.
From that point on, penalties were the theme of the game. The defense continually gave Billings second chances and the offense put themselves in unmanageable situations. In all, over 20 penalties were called on the expansion franchise, playing in their opening game. At half, they were down 28-20.
In a tale of two halves, the experience factor came into play and the Outlaws dominated in mid-season fashion. They scored another 28 points and the Predators could not answer. After the final whistle, the scoreboard read 56-40 and the first game in Kent's inaugural season was in the books. Look for Coach McCarthy to use this week to correct the team's penalty issues, and to adjust on some matchup problems that were evident in the game's final 30 minutes. The team gets back to work on Monday night, March 8th when they hit the road once more to take on the Alaska Wild in Anchorage. Game time is scheduled for 7:05 Alaskan Standard time, 8:05 PST. Tickets are still available for the teams home opener against the Fairbanks Grizzlies on Friday, March 12th. Fans can purchase their tickets by logging on to www.kentpredators.com or by calling the team's office at 253-239-3254.
Game Notes: McCullum threw for three scores and ran for another...Outlaws DB Kdafi Tunsil intercepted two passes and Linebacker Mike Bazemore recorded 3 sacks…WR Ulysses Odom caught three TD passes and ran for another for the Outlaws...A total of six personal fouls were called in the game...Predators Offensive Linemen Ma'ake Pole' was ejected in the second half...Return man Jarvious Dunn had kickoff returns of 45, 35, and 32 in the game.
Predators 2010 Campaign Begins Today
Kent Visits the Defending Champion Outlaws in Teams First Game
Kent, WA: When the expansion Kent Predators take the field today at 4 p.m. from the Rimrock Auto Arena in Billings, Montana it will mark a series of first's for the young franchise. It will be the first game in team history, the first game as Head Coach for William McCarthy, and the first time many of the young players have played the indoor style of football. It will be an early test for the Predators as they play in front of over 6,000 fans that are expected to attend the first game of the Billings Outlaws IFL title defense.
McCarthy emphasized the challenge that his team will face this afternoon. "We have quite the battle on our hands to begin this season, stated McCarthy. "We know the stadium will be rocking, but it will be our job to neutralize the crowd and keep that Outlaws Offense off the field.
It is that same Outlaws offense that led them to the first ever IFL United Bowl Championship last season in a 71-62 victory over the RiverCity Rage. They finished the regular season as the #1 ranked offense as well, averaging 59.5 points per game in 2009. They are led by 2009 IFL Player of the Year Chris Dixon, who is a dual threat Quarterback and veteran indoor football player. To stay in this game, Predators Linebackers KJ McCrae and Walner Leandre will have to keep him in the pocket, apply pressure, and not let him make plays with his feet. Look for Defensive back Kevin Jones to be lined up across from Outlaws Wide Receiver James Walton, who last season hauled in a league best 34 touchdown passes.
Predators Kick Off 2010 Campaign with Friday Press Conference
IFL Commissioner Tommy Benizio to Help Celebrate Kent's Inaugural Season
Kent, WA: The front office staff of the Indoor Football League's newest franchise, the Kent Predators, invite members of the area sports media and community to a press conference and information sharing session this Friday, February 12th, at the ShoWare Center. Team Owners Chris Kokalis and Ken Moninski, along with Vice President of Football Operations Brian Brents, and Head Coach William McCarthy plan on presenting the details of the 25 team league that spans from Alaska to Washington DC. Among other topics to be discussed is Friday's Kickoff of Training Camp, plans for their first home game on March 12th, and individual player signings. Kent Mayor Suzette Cooke will also be on hand to answer questions regarding the Predators presence within the community and her hope to bring a winning franchise to the city.
The highlight of the festivities will be the appearance of IFL Commissioner Tommy Benizio who will be officially announcing the kickoff to the 2010 season, as Friday is the first day teams can begin holding training camps. "Heading into the league's second season, the IFL has quickly established itself as the nation's premier indoor football league," he stated. "I am very excited to come to Kent to announce the kickoff of the 2010 campaign and to watch the Predators compete in our Pacific North Division this year."
Snacks and appetizers will be provided at 2:30 PM, with informal announcements and a question and answer session to follow at 3:00 PM sharp. "We are very pleased to be bringing a professional sports franchise to the city of Kent and are eager to take this opportunity to meet the local sports media and fans and introduce the great game of indoor football to them," stated Kokalis. "It is our hope to build long lasting relationships with these important people and we look forward to introducing our plans for the 2010 season and beyond."
The ShoWare Center is located at 625 W. James Street in Kent. For further information regarding this press conference or any matters related to the Kent Predators, please contact Jim Granacker at (253) 239-3254, by email at jgranacker@kentpredators.com, or visit our website at www.kentpredators.com.
New Predators Head Coach Making Immediate Impact
McCarthy Signs 6 Players, Training Camp Begins Next Week
Kent, WA: Head Coach William McCarthy wasted no time adding to his roster for the 2010 season after being announced as the first Coach in team history last month. The group of six players includes a record setting collegiate Quarterback, a 2009 IFL Offensive Player of the Week, a collegiate All-Conference team member, an imposing wide receiver, and two hybrid offensive/defensive linemen.
The group of men signed adds to an already impressive crop of players who were signed last month after the teams final open tryout.
Joining the Predators for the 2010 season are:
Greg Mangan - QB - Oberlin College
Mangan is a 2009 graduate of Oberlin College, where he was a three-year starter at quarterback for the Yeomen. Over the course of his college career, Mangan became the most prolific passer in school history, compiling all time school records with his 7,002 passing yards, 48 touchdown passes and overall 63.3% completion percentage. As a senior, he was an offensive team captain and recipient of the Andrews Family Award for academic, athletic and leadership excellence. A two-time All-Conference player in the North Coast Athletic Conference Mangan holds a total of 9 all time Oberlin College records.
Eric Taylor - WR - Odessa Roughnecks (IFL)/BC Lions (CFL)
Taylor comes to the Predators as a veteran of the Indoor Football League, playing the 2009 season as a member of the Odessa Roughnecks. Taylor finished last season with 56 catches for 754 yards and 14 touchdowns. He also ran for two scores as well, and was among the league leaders in kick return average. He was named the IFL Offensive Player of the Week for the Week of May 16th. Prior to coming to the IFL, Taylor played Wide Receiver for the BC Lions of the Canadian Football League.
Nick Paris - DE/LB - Florida Atlantic University
Paris was a four year starter under head coach Howard Schnellenberger at Florida Atlantic University. He played center for an offensive line that was ranked in the top 15 nationally in 2007 and 2008. During his time at FAU, Paris played against many top twenty five teams in the BCS and was selected to the all-conference team in the Sun-Belt Conference during his senior year. After college, He cut weight to make a transition to the defensive side of the ball to play defensive end/linebacker, where he hopes to use his explosiveness and knowledge of how an offense runs to his advantage.
Eric Marshall - WR - Delta State University
Standing at 6 foot 3 inches tall, Marshall brings size and speed to an already impressive group of Wide Receivers headed to training camp. While at Delta State, he hauled in 17 career touchdown receptions to go along with over 1,400 yards in his two years there. Marshall has also held previous workouts at the Regional NFL Scouting Combine and with the Indianapolis Colts and will look to bring an intensity to the Predator offensive unit.
Lavon Ward - OL/DL - Texas Copperheads (AF2)/Rio Grande Valley Dorados (AF2)
Another player with previous Indoor Football experience is Lavon Ward. Ward played the 2008 season for two different franchises in the Arena Football League 2 in the Texas Copperheads and Rio Grande Valley Dorados. The American International College graduate projects to play on both the offensive and defensive lines for the Predators.
Jermaine Thomas - OL/DL - Stillman College/Ottawa Univserity
A run-stopping defensive lineman, Thomas comes to Kent to play both sides of the ball along the line. In three seasons of collegiate football, at both Stillman College and Ottawa University, he accumulated 51 total tackles, 2.5 for loss, a sack, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, and three blocked kicks. In 2009 he coached an Ottawa University defensive line that led the NAIA in sacks and finished with an 11-1 record.
These six individuals, along with the rest of the Kent Predators head into the team's training camp which begins next week in anticipation of their first game against the defending IFL Champion Billings Outlaws on February 28th. "We have a lot of work to do from now until then, but I have confidence that Coach McCarthy will have these guys ready to play," stated Co-Owner and President Chris Kokalis. "It is our hope to show the rest of the IFL that an expansion franchise can produce wins on the field."
Predators Tab McCarthy as Franchise's First Head Coach
Coach to Bring Offensive Mindset to Kent
Kent, WA: Brian Brents, making his first major decision as the Kent Predators Vice President of Player Personnel, announced today that William McCarthy will be franchise's first Head Coach. The former El Paso Generals Assistant Coach helped Brents create one of the Indoor Football League's top offensive units in 2009 and will look to do the same for the Predators. "When I was brought to Kent by Chris(Kokalis) and was given the task of finding a Head Coach, William's name immediately popped into my head," said Brents. "I have had the privilege of working with him the last couple years and know he will bring a winner to the area."
Working under Brents last season, McCarthy oversaw the offensive and defensive lines as well as the Special Teams. He helped groom Jermaine Pruitt and Ron Ellington into All-IFL First Team members, and established the Generals as a top three offensive unit within the league. Prior to his work with El Paso, McCarthy coached the defensive line and special teams for the Mercyhurst Lakers and assisted on Brents' Mississippi Mudcats squad in the AIFA. McCarthy is optimistic in his latest challenge. "I am very excited to be the first Head Coach of the Kent Predators," he stated. "I look forward to the opportunity to bring some good football to the northwest and I hope to bring a product that the state of Washington and the city of Kent can be proud of."
The hiring of McCarthy was regarded with much approval by team Co-Owner and General Manager Chris Kokalis. "I have much respect for the opinions of Brian Brents when it comes to the game of indoor football," he stated. "When he gave his recommendation for William and backed it up with the statistics on his coaching pedigree, it became an easy decision."
McCarthy will have the immediate task of assembling a 45 man roster that he can bring to next months training camp. That will begin with the teams second open tryout this Sunday, January 24th, from 1pm-5pm at the Showare Center, located at 625 W. James Street in Kent. Cost to participate is $65, paid by cash or credit card only. Players must be at least 18 years old, and be prepared to be evaluated in the 40 yard dash, 20 yard shuttle, four cone drill, standing broad jump, various agility drills, and position specific 7 on 7 drills. Participants are urged to arrive early for registration. The team signed 15 players from their first tryout in December. For more information on these tryouts or any Predators news, log on to www.kentpredators.com or call the team office at 253-239-3254.
The Kent Predators are an expansion franchise in the 25-team Indoor Football League (www.goifl.com) based out of Richmond, Virginia. The league has franchises in 13 states and holds a 14-game regular season that runs from February through June. The IFL's playoffs culminate in August with the IFL United Bowl. The IFL was created in 2008 out of the merger between the Intense Football League and the United Indoor Football Association. For more information, call the IFL offices at 804-643-PASS (7277).
Predators Individual And Group Tickets On Sale Monday
Pick Your Seats Event to be Held from 6pm-9pm
Kent, WA: The front office for the Indoor Football League's expansion Kent Predators announced today that individual and group tickets for all seven 2010 home games will go on sale Monday, January 25th at 10 am. Tickets will be on sale through the ShoWare Center Box Office, located at 625 W. James Street in Kent, and via the Predators website at www.kentpredators.com.
That same evening the team will host their first Pick Your Seat Night event at the Showare Center from 6pm-9pm. Current Predators players will be on hand to greet fans and sign autographs, and the team will also be giving out free hot dogs and sodas to all who attend. "This event is aimed towards getting the local community and fan base excited for the 2010 season and for them to get to know the team on a more personal level," stated Predators Co-Owner and President Chris Kokalis. "It is also a great opportunity for fans who have not purchased their season tickets to take advantage of the teams 10% off special which runs through the end of January."
Prices for tickets vary depending on location within the arena. Tickets range from Endzone seating, which will cost $14.50 per game, to Platinum seating which is valued at $42.00 per game. Club and Premium, Reserved, and Touchdown seats are $38.00, $30.00, and $20.00 respectively. Group ticket prices (10 or more people) are discounted with Endzone seats for $13.00, Touchdown seats for $17.50, and Reserved seat for $26.50 a piece. For more information on individual and group season ticket packages, call the Predators team office 253-239-3254.
Predators Look To Fill Voids With Weekend Tryout
Coaching Decision Expected THIS Week
Kent, WA: The expansion Kent Predators indoor football team announced today that they will be holding another round of open tryouts as they look to finalize their training camp roster in preparation for the 2010 season. The session will be lead by 2009 IFL Coach of the Year, and newly appointed Vice President of Player Personnel, Brian Brents. "Sunday will be a big day for this franchise in terms solidifying a roster," said Brents. "With the rich talent pool along the Pacific Coast I am confident that we will not only be able to find good players, but the right ones to fit our system."
The tryout will take place from 1-5pm on January 24th at the ShoWare Center, located at 625 W. James Street in Kent. Cost to participate is $65, paid by cash or credit card only, and each person will receive a free t-shirt. Players must be at least 18 years old, and be prepared to be evaluated in the 40 yard dash, 20 yard shuttle, four cone drill, standing broad jump, various agility drills, and position specific 7 on 7 drills. Participants are urged to arrive early for registration. For more information on these tryouts or any Predators news, log on to www.kentpredators.com or call the team office at 253-239-3254. The team expects to announce a Head Coach next month and will bring a total of 45 players to February's training camp.
Lady Predator Tryouts Set for Next Weekend As Well
In related news, the Predators will be holding open tryouts for their 2010 Dance Squad next Friday, January 22nd from 7:00-9:30 PM with an additional tryout scheduled for January 23rd at a time to be announced. Cost to participate is $30 and those interested should arrive at the Bally's Fitness, located at 1340 West Smith Street in Kent no later than 6:30 PM for registration.
Those wishing to make the squad must be at least 18 years old, have finished high school, and be able to attend practices during the week and weekends. The Lady Predators seek young women with a strong work ethic, ambition for performing in front of thousands of fans, and a passion for helping out in the community. Credit card payments must be called in to 253-239-3254 no later than January 21st and all applicants must bring a current photo of themselves that the Dance Coordinator may keep on file. Please contact Hayley at hquinn@kentpredators.com for additional questions, or to pre-register. Spread the word, and help cheer on the Predators in their first year in the Indoor Football League!
2009 IFL Coach Of The Year Heads West
Brian Brents Tabbed as Teams First Ever VP of Football Operations
Kent, WA: The Kent Predators, making perhaps one of the biggest splashes in the off-season, announced today that 2009 Indoor Football League Coach of the Year Brian Brents has been selected as the team's first ever Vice President of Football Operations. Brents, who led the expansion El Paso Generals last season to a 12-2 regular season record and a berth in the Intense Conference Championship game, comes to Kent with a strong pedigree for putting talent on the field. His first major decision in his new role will be to hire a Head Coach, which he hopes to accomplish within the next week. "Not only is Brian well regarded amongst his peers within the sport, he also has experience establishing an expansion franchise into a proven winner," stated Predators Co-Owner and President Chris Kokalis. "We are confident that he will continue his success and bring a winning attitude to the organization"
Brents, a native of Crane, Texas, and his teams have historically been known to be offensive juggernauts. Last season, as Head Coach of the Generals, his team was among the top three in almost every major offensive category including passing yards, total offense, and points per game. Before his time in El Paso, he spent two seasons as the Head Coach of the Mississippi Mudcats compiling a 24-5 record, with two playoff appearances. He was also chosen to coach the AIFA South All-Star team in 2007. The former Abilene Christian University Wide Receiver has a coaching record of 46-10 since 2006.
"I am really excited to get this thing going with Chris and Ken (Moninski)," stated Brents. "We have a lot of work to do in the next month, and fans should expect the announcement of a coach and additional player signings very soon." Making it easier on Brents is the fact that the West Coast is rich in talent. He will not only be able to pluck players from the Pac-10 ranks, but many of the other fine Division I, II, and III institutions along the Pacific. Another open tryout will also be conducted sometime this month. Those interested should log on to www.kentpredators.com or call the team office at 253-239-3254 for more information. The team will bring a total of 45 players to February's training camp.
Predators Announce Franchise's First Player Signings
15 Players Invited to 2010 Training Camp
Kent, WA: On December 7th, the Kent Predators were introduced as the 26th franchise to play in the 2010 Indoor Football League season. Today, the team announced their first player signings in team history. Fifteen individuals out of more than fifty who attended last weekend's open tryout will be invited to training camp in hopes of being on the field February 28th when the Predators face the defending IFL Champion Billings Outlaws.
The group of players selected, headlined by former Western Washington University and Tri-Cities Fever Defensive back Kevin Jones and Portland State Linebacker Keista "KJ" McCrae, proves the team will have a strong emphasis on stopping their opponents attack this season. Eleven of the fifteen players signed are projected to play on the defensive side of the ball, which is no surprise considering coaching consultant Mike Davis's pedigree. Last season he was the Defensive Coordinator for a RiverCity Rage team who was one win away from winning the first ever IFL United Bowl Championship. Joining the team for the 2010 season are:
Kevin Jones, DB - Tri-Cities Fever/Western Washington University
Jones heads to the Predators after a brief stint in 2009 with the Tri-Cities Fever, formally of the AF2. He saw action in one game after signing late in the season. As a local star at Western Washington University, Jones was a standout defensive back while also seeing time on Special Teams as a kick returner. He had perhaps his best season in 2005 where played in all ten games registering 33 tackles (27 solo), 7 pass breakups, 1 pass interception, 1 fumble recovery and 2 forced fumbles. He also returned 8 kickoffs for 128 yards. An Achilles injury forced him to miss the 2006 and 2007 seasons. As a senior in 2008 he played in ten games, totaling 33 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, an interception and 2 pass breakups.
Keista "KJ" McCrae, LB - Portland State
McCrae joins the Predators for his first season of professional football after three seasons at Portland State University. His senior season for the Vikings in 2008 got him multiple looks from the professional ranks as he totaled 75 tackles, 12 of them for loss, 4.5 sacks, 2 fumble recoveries, and one forced fumble. The two-time All-Big Sky Conference Honorable Mention finished his collegiate career with 108.5 tackles (73 solo), 24.5 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and an interception.
H. Mark Onibokun, DB - Boise State
After two seasons of Junior College, Onibokun was heavily recruited by many major Division I collegiate programs. He committed to Boise State where he was a member of the 2003 Broncos team that won the PlainsCapital Fort Worth Bowl, defeating TCU 34-31. While playing mostly on Offense and Special Teams he finished his collegiate career with 12 catches for 126 while also returning 15 kick for 382 yards for an average of 25.5 yards per return. On defense he recorded one interception in a game in 2004 versus Hawaii.
Broderick Hutchin, DB - Concordia (WI)/Milwaukee Bonecrushers
Hutchins joins the Predators with prior indoor football experience after playing in four games with the Milwaukee Bonecrushers of the Continental Indoor Football League in 2008. That season he totaled 20 tackles and 1 interception in four games. In two seasons as a defensive back at Concordia University from 2005-2006, he picked off 13 passes and accumulated 181 return yards off those takeaways.
Blaine McConnell, S/WR - U. of Idaho
Tony Grote, OL/DL - Tacoma Cobras
Grote comes to Kent fresh off his dominating performance in the Professional Developmental Football League. As a member of the Tacoma Cobras, Grote was named as the 2009 PDFL Offensive Lineman of the Year. He was also named to the First Team All-PDFL Offense as a Center for a Cobras team that won the first ever PDFL Championship.
Andre "Piper" Gordon, WR - Renton Ravens
Following a 9-3 season in the Cascade Football League that culminated in a Championship berth, Jordan joins the Predators with a reputation for being a big play Wide Receiver. The First Team CFL All-Conference member had a league long 70 yard catch and totaled eight touchdowns during the 2009 season.
Marcus Reed, RB - Tacoma Cobras
Reed follows former teammate Tony Grote to the Predators from the Tacoma Cobras of the PDFL. And much like his former battering mate, he too collected some post-season hardware. Reed was named the 2009 PDFL Running back of the Year and was also selected to the First Team All-PDFL Offensive team. The Cobras relied heavily on Reed down the stretch which allowed them to become the first ever PDFL Champions in 2009.
Toby Smith, LB - Seattle Stallions
Like Gordon and McGee, Smith comes to the Predators from the Cascade Football League. During the 2009 season he helped the Stallions to a perfect 9-0 regular season record as an anchor on defense. He totaled 38 tackles, 9 for loss, 3.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and 2 interceptions which he returned for touchdowns.
Marcus Whittaker, S - Tacoma Cobras
In addition to Grote and Reed, Safety Marcus Whittaker comes to the Predators after a season with the Tacoma Cobras of the Professional Developmental Football League. Whittaker was a central figure for a defensive unit that defeated the Bellingham Blitz 36-31 in the PDFL Championship.
Damien Coaxum, RB - College of the Redwoods
A bruising style runner out of the College of the Redwoods, Coaxum figures to be a touchdown threat near the goal line. During his final collegiate season in 2001 he ran for 559 yards on 102 carries with 8 touchdowns (5.4 yard avg.). He also caught 35 passes for 599 yards and 4 scores.
William McGee, RB - Renton Ravens
McGee joins former teammate Andre "Piper" Gordon from the Renton Ravens of the Cascade Football League to compete for the starting Running back spot for Kent. He was a CFL All-Conference Honorable Mention in 2009 after averaging over 8 yards per carry and more than 5 yards per catch out of the backfield.
Andrew Pina, OL/DL - King County Jaguars
The addition of Pina brings size to the trenches and he will be counted on to wreak havoc along the offensive and defensive lines. As a member of the King County Jaguars of the North American Football League, Pina was selected to the 2008 Western Conference All-Star Team as an offensive Lineman.
Jeremiah Captain, DB - Benedictine College/Puget Titans
Captain brings speed and athleticism to a defensive backfield that will be counted on to keep up with many of the IFL's top Wide Receivers. After becoming a second team NAIA Heart of America Athletic Conference selection in 2005, Captain took his skills to the Northwest Football League where he earned First Team All-NWFL honors at Defensive back.
Debenaire Nichols, LB - N/A
Another open tryout will be conducted sometime in January for those interested players who were unable to participate last weekend. Log on to www.kentpredators.com or call the team office at 253-239-3254 for more information. The team expects to announce a Head Coach next month and will bring a total of 45 players to February's training camp.
Kent Predators Announce 2010 Schedule
On Monday, the Kent Predators and Indoor Football League announced the team's 2010 inaugural season schedule. The Predators begin their 2010 campaign on the road February 28th when they battle the defending IFL-champion Billings Outlawz. The team then heads to Anchorage, Alaska, for a March 8th matchup with the Alaska Wild before returning to Kent for the team's home debut at the ShoWare Center Friday, March 12th @ 7:30pm against the Fairbanks Grizzlies. After a trip March 20th to Tri Cities for a game against the rival Tri Cities Fever, the team has two straight bye weeks. They return to the ShoWare Center for games against the Wild (April 9) and Fever (April 18). Heading back on the road, they make a trip to the windy city for a game against the Chicago Slaughter (April 24) then return home for a contest against the Outlawz (April 30). The Predators head back on the road for their 2nd trip to Tri Cities (May 8) then return back to Kent where they will host the Grizzlies (May 14) followed by their third bye week and games against the Outlawz (May 29) and Fever (June 4). The Predators end the regular season on the road with a trip to Alaska for games against the Grizzlies (June 12) and Wild (June 19).
"To begin the season on the road against the defending champs will be a huge test for our football team," said Chris Kokalis, Predators President. "We have some strong teams in our conference which should mean for some competitive matchups for our fans inside the ShoWare Center. Playing Tri Cities three times should create an instant fan rivalry."
Friday and Saturday night home games at the ShoWare Center will start at 7:30pm with Sunday games beginning at 3pm. All game times are subject to change. The Predators expect to release the team's individual game & group pricing later this week. Season tickets are currently on sale through the team's website www.kentpredators.com .
Kent Predators Announce Team Tryouts
The Kent Predators would like to announce that the first open tryout for the 2010 team will take place on Saturday, December 19th and Sunday, December 20th. The tryout will take place at the Soccer Center located at 2610 Bay St E in Tacoma, WA. Registration and warm-up will begin at 2:30 pm with the tryout starting at 3:30 pm on Saturday. Tryouts will continue on Sunday beginning at 7:30 am and ending at 9:00 am. All players trying out should be available both dates.
The registration fee to tryout is $65 and includes a t-shirt (cash or credit card only). Housing is available for players traveling in from out of town at the Holiday Inn. Their will be a fee for those players wanting a room at the Holiday Inn. Those players needing housing will be given more information upon the team receiving their registration.
Participants must be at least 18 years of age and be prepared to be evaluated in the following drills: 40-yard dash, 20-yard shuttle, four cone drill, standing broad jump, agility drills, position-specific drills and 7-on-7. Kickers will be evaluated on kickoff and field goal proficiency.
"It will be great to get the ball rolling on the football side," said Chris Kokalis, Predators President. "This is an opportunity to get paid to play professional football. We are looking to assist players in taking their game to the next level such as the CFL or NFL. Our league is definitely a stepping stone to help get them to that level."
Those wanting to tryout can pre-register by visiting the Predators website www.kentpredators.com or by calling the Predators office at (253) 239-3254. Players planning to pay by credit card should register no later then December 18th.
PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL COMING TO KENT
TEAM TO BE INTRODUCED AT 3:30 PRESS CONFERENCE
Professional football is coming to the Pacific Northwest. The Kent Predators, an expansion professional football franchise, will begin play in the Indoor Football League (IFL) beginning in March of 2010. The team is excited to be working with SMG in securing ShoWare Center in Kent, Washington as its home facility.
The Predators will hold a news conference today Monday, December 7th at 3:30 pm at the ShoWare Center to introduce the franchise and members of the ownership group.
"We are extremely excited. This area eats and breathes football and the ShoWare Center is a first class facility," said Chris Kokalis, Predators President and co owner. "The important thing for us to do is get involved in the community. Being active and involved in the community is equally as important as wins and losses for our organization."
The Predators have entered into good faith negotiations with SMG in coordination with the City of Kent for the purpose of securing a lease agreement.
The Indoor Football League (www.goifl.com) is a 26-team league based out of Richmond, Virginia with franchises in 13 states. Kent becomes the second Washington franchise for the IFL joining the Tri-Cities Fever. The league holds a 14-game regular season schedule that runs March through June. The IFL's playoffs culminate in August with the IFL United Bowl. The Predators will host a seven game home schedule. Games will be played on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The IFL schedule is expected to be released within the next week.
The Predators are co-owned by Chris Kokalis & Ken Moninski. Moninski is the Owner/President of Seattle based company Global Aircraft Services, an aviation services company providing flight crews and logistics for the managed movement of commercial aircraft around the world. Global was named an Inc. 5,000 company in 2009, recognizing its growth in supporting the world's leading aircraft leasing companies and fastest growing airlines. He has gained experience in a variety of business functions during his over 20 years working in the airline industry. Serving in senior management positions at Evergreen International Aviation and Virgin Atlantic Airways, he led several airport infrastructure projects and joint-venture initiatives in North America, China and Spain. In the 1990s he was also a founder and board member of a new entrant regional airline in Colorado. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Alaska-Fairbanks and is a volunteer with the Big Brothers/Big Sisters mentoring program.
Kokalis has a lengthy resume within professional sports. He has held a variety of administrative, marketing and sales positions with teams such as the Minnesota Thunder, Milwaukee Rampage, Milwaukee Bonecrushers and Los Angeles Dodgers.
Kokalis and Moninski are also co owners of the La Crosse Spartans an IFL franchise in La Crosse, WI along with Wisconsin businessman Bob Sullivan.
"I know that ShoWare Center is the perfect venue for professional indoor football. I am grateful for the support of SMG and the city of Kent and look forward to an exciting inaugural season at the ShoWare Center" said Moninski.
Football fans will have the opportunity to learn more about the Predators – and reserve season tickets – with the launch of the team's website, www.kentpredators.com, on Monday.
