Daily League News & Notes

Arena Football League
Chase signs major deal to back sport in Tampa Bay
Chase, the North American consumer and commercial banking business of JPMorgan Chase, has signed a major new multi-year deal to partner the Tampa Bay Times Forum and its two resident teams, the National Hockey League’s (NHL) Tampa Bay Lightning and the Tampa Bay Storm Arena Football League (AFL) side.
With immediate effect, Chase becomes the official bank, credit card, financial services partner, ATM provider and community partner of the three entities, which are all controlled by Tampa Bay Sports and Entertainment.
Under the terms set out in the agreement, Chase will offer its customers and Tampa Bay fans discounts on team merchandise and in-arena experiences through a rewards scheme, as well as scheduling player meet-and-greets at local branches.
The company will also benefit from prominent exposure at the venue through on-ice and dasherboard signage, in addition to naming rights to the all-inclusive Chase Club, the Times Forum's most exclusive seating area.
As ever with a deal as wide-ranging as this, a community component has been included. Chase will support a number of community projects in the Greater Tampa Bay area, providing volunteers to help the Lightning upgrade hockey rinks and give hundreds of sets of hockey equipment to local youth, as well as supporting local military vets and the University of South Florida's MBA in Sports and Entertainment Management programme.
The partnership will be launched at a special in-game ceremony on Thursday when the Lightning host the New York Islanders.
"We are fans of Tampa Bay and are very proud to be partnering with one of our city's most important landmarks in bringing the attributes of the Chase brand to the arena,” said Mel Martinez, chairman for JPMorgan Chase in Florida.
“More importantly, we are teaming up with an organisation that shares our commitment to building strong communities and together we will be making a difference among young sport fans in Tampa.”
Jeff Vinik, the chairman of Tampa Bay Sports and Entertainment, added: "We appreciate the leadership at JPMorgan Chase of Florida for sharing our community-first vision and investing with us to enrich lives in the Tampa Bay area.
“We believe the partnership will benefit not only both organisations, but most importantly we believe this will be good for the people of our community."
Chase is a major supporter of sport in the US through partnerships with the likes of Orlando’s Amway Center, New York’s Madison Square Garden and the US Open Tennis Championships.
With Two Days Left, Soul Trade for DL from Chicago
The 2012 American Conference Champion Philadelphia Soul, presented byParx Casino, added another player to their defensive line this week byacquiring DL Ko Quaye (6'1, 305, South Dakota) from the Chicago Rush.In return for Quaye, the Soul sent the No. 4pick in the claim order to Chicago.
Quaye played the 2012 season with the Tampa Bay Storm.Before his AFL experience, he spent time with the NFL Jacksonville Jaguars, Buffalo Bills, and Cleveland Browns.Quaye will join DL Dustin Barno (6'3, 275, East Stroudsburg), DL Bryan Robinson (6'3, 290,Wesley), DL Lawon Scott (6'1, 305, Mississippi), and OL/DL Jason Townson (6'4,325, Tennessee St.).
Tomorrow is the last day of practice for the 2013 training camp.The Soul will conclude their camp on Saturday, March 16, with a joint practice with the Pittsburgh Power at the NovaCare Complex from 8 to 10:30 a.m.
PLAYER SPOTLIGHT:QB DAN RAUDABAUGH (6'3, 230, MIAMI (OH)): QB Dan Raudabaugh returned to Philadelphia after a record-breaking 2012 season.Raudabaugh set the single season records of: yards in a season (4,790),passing touchdowns (115), and pass completions (362).Raudabaugh also set a Soul record for passing touchdowns in a game (11).
QUOTE OF THE DAY:"I try to take care of my body," said Soul veteran LB Joe Goosby about his offseason conditioning."I watch films, see where I can make more tackles.I continuously hit the gym to stay in shape, and I do different foot work drills that will translate over to the field so I can play at a higher level than the season before.Before each season, I always set high expectations for myself.This season, I want to get 100 tackles and 10 interceptions."In regards to which Philly Big Five schools has the best chance of winning the March Madness, Goosby replied, "Not to take anything away from Villanova or Temple, but I have to go with LaSalle.They're one of my sleepers in this tournament."
NICE TO SEE YOU, AGAIN:Soulhead coach and AFL Hall of Fame QB, Clint Dolezel, retired from the AFL in 2008 when he was playing for the Dallas Desperados.One of his targets while finishing up his career during the 2007 and 2008 seasons was new acquisition WR Andrae Thurman (6'0, 185, Arizona).
During Thurman's rookie season, Dolezel made the Al Lucas Hero Team Award and the All-Arena Second Team.During those two seasons, Dolezel threw for 7,520 yards, 173 touchdowns, and 19 interceptions. Thurman finished his rookie and sophomore seasons with 91 catches, 1,137 yards, and 27 touchdowns.
With the two pairing up again this season, it will be interesting to see if the quarterback-turned-coach Dolezel still has the chemistry with Thurman.
Shock to Reveal 2013 Team at Fairchild Air Force Base
Spirits will be flying high at the Fairchild air force base on Sunday, March 17 at 3:30 p.m. as the Spokane Shock will reveal the 2013 team at Fairchild Air Force base.
The official announcement will take place at a hangar on base where players will be announced as they exit a plane big enough for the event, a KC-135 Stratotanker.
The Spokane Shock, an organization that is continually involved in the area, are looking forward to working with an organization that shares the same passion, the Fairchild Air Force base.
"I am very excited to be working with the Fairchild Air Force Base this season as it's an honor to be involved with such great people," said Andy Olson, Spokane Shock Arena Football head coach. "We feel that partnering with Fairchild will be great for Spokane and hopefully together we can continue to build on an already tight knit community - we are proud to have an Air Force Base locally that does so much in the community."
The event is sure to be a scoring drive for the air force base and the Spokane Shock as the event unites two organizations that are closely involved with the community.
Announcing the 2013 team at the air force base will be a highlight for both organizations before the Spokane Shock's season home opener on April 12th against the Arizona Rattlers.
Storm Training Camp Day 12
Today the Storm was greeted by Arena Football League Commissioner Jerry Kurz. Commissioner Kurz' stop at Storm training camp was part of his annual AFL training camp tour. He spoke on a number of topics, and the overall message was a positive one.
Prior to the visit, the Storm worked on becoming an even better team. The players worked on several drills including a no-huddle offense drill.
"The no-huddle offense keeps the defense on its toes," said Storm offensive lineman Alfred McCullough. "We already know what the play call will be so it helps us get the ball down the field."
The no-huddle offense is a game plan implemented by a team's offense. It is typically used during the one-minute drill. With this type of playing strategy, the offense already knows what plays will be called. When implementing the no-huddle, the offense moves from one play to the next, not allowing the defense to set or substitute players.
"For us, it's beneficial to practice the no-huddle," said Storm defensive lineman Rodney Beamon. "It tries to keep us off guard, and gets us ready for anything that might happen during the game."
By practicing the no-huddle along with some special plays, the Storm looks to be prepared for anything this upcoming season.
Looking Forward: Tomorrow marks the final day of Storm training camp. The team will be practicing out at Skyway Park (3901 George Road) starting at 9 AM.
Coaches' Perspective: "Tomorrow's the last day," said Storm head coach Dave Ewart. "We are going to keep on plugging away, making you work for those roster spots."
Quote of the Day: Addressing his team, Storm linebacker John-Kevin Dolce said, "We only have one more day. You never know what's around the corner so work your hardest and anything can happen."
Player Spotlight: Defensive back Vance Cuff returns for his second season in a Storm uniform. The former Georgia Bulldog was brought in late last season to help solidify a banged up defensive backfield. He did not waste any time, reeling in an interception in his first game. His interception helped lead the Storm to its first road victory of the 2012 season with a win over the Pittsburgh Power. His ability to find the ball has shown as he hauled in an interception during this morning's practice.
Shock Assigned Levi Horn
The Shock have been assigned offensive linemen Levi Horn to the 2013 roster.
Horn (6-7, 315) joins the 2013 Shock roster for his AFL debut after spending time with the NFL's Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings after his collegiate career at the University of Montana. Horn, a Spokane local and graduate of John R. Rogers High School in 2005, was a 4A first-team all-state tight end that began his career at the University of Oregon where he moved to the offensive tackle position. After the 2005 season, Horn transferred to the University of Montana where he would play his final three seasons of eligibility and receive first-team All-Big Sky Conference and FCS All-American honors.
After completing his collegiate career, Horn signed with the Chicago bears as an undrafted free agent following the 2010 NFL draft and would also spend time with the Minnesota Vikings in 2012.
"Levi is a fantastic talent and the first true Spokane local that we've signed to the Shock roster. We are thrilled to have him join our team and look forward to seeing what he can add to our offensive line this season," said Shock General Manager Ryan Rigmaiden.

Champions Professional Indoor Football League
Mustang Up for Grabs
One Salina Bomber fan will get the chance to win a brand new Ford Mustang when the Salina Bombers host I-135 rival Wichita Wild at the Bicentennial Center this Saturday, March 16. Long McArthur Ford Lincoln has agreed to this historic giveaway and will provide a 2014 Mustang to the fan who kicks a football through the uprights from 43 yards.Â
Tickets for the Bombers' 2013 Champions Professional Indoor Football League season opener are $9, $14 and $22, tickets are available for $4.50 and $7.00 for kids ages 2-12. The box office at the Bicentennial Center is open 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily and will have extended hours to 8 p.m. on Friday, March 15 and will be open at noon the day of the game. Fans can also purchase tickets online at BicentennialCenter.com or by phone at 1-888-826-SHOW (7469).
The Mustang up for grabs will be on display at the Bicentennial Center on Saturday where fans can register to participate. One fan will be chosen for the contest to be held at halftime.
"We really wanted to do something historic for the Bombers and Salina." Said Long McArthur Ford Lincoln General Manager Derrick Lee. "We felt like a giveaway of this magnitude would be a perfect fit for Salina's fist professional football franchise."
Gates to the arena will open on Saturday at 5:30, kick-off is scheduled for 7:05 pm.
Omaha Beef Finalize Regular Season Roster
The Omaha Beef today announced the return of former Beef players Matt Rahn and Judd Harrold.
Rahn, the 6'4", 295 lb center out of Hastings College has been playing football nearly continuously over the last three years. During the spring, Rahn has played with several indoor teams including the Omaha Beef of the IFL and Cleveland Gladiators of the AFL last season, during the fall he serves as a player coach for Cuiab Arsenal in Brazil. Rahn already played three games this season with the Chicago Slaughter of the IFL.
Harrold, the 6'5", 235lb receiver out of Division III powerhouse Mount Union, returns for his second season with the Beef. Harrold recorded 5 touchdowns in 10 games with the Beef in 2012. Omaha head coach Andy Yost said that it is important to bring back veterans for a successful season. "These are two guys that just love to play the game and we're are happy they are back," Yost said. "We are happy with our roster as we prepare for the regular season opener and can't wait to start the new season."
The Beef will start the CPIFL regular season on Sunday as they travel to Kansas City to take on the Renegades. Kickoff is at 2:00PM at Kemper Arena.

Indoor Football League
Join Slaughter for a St. Patrick's Day Celebration
Join the team Sunday, March 17 for a St. Patrick's Day celebration! The Slaughter will face off against the Texas Revolution at 2:05 PM at the Sears Centre Arena. With your paid game ticket, you will automatically be entered into our LUCK O' THE IRISH DRAWINGS for prizes including: Wrigley View Rooftop Tickets, an autographed team football, game worn jersey, overnight accommodations at the Hotel Cass in Chicago, Adler Planetarium four pack, and more. The Slaughter players will wear green jerseys (sponsored by Flood Brothers Disposal/Recycling Services ) and you'll have three ways to win a game worn jersey - 50/50 raffle, silent auction, and a live auction. The Pipes and Drums of the Chicago Highlanders will add to the festive atmosphere.
Preorder your St. Patrick's Day Slaughter tee now! Tees are just $10 and can be preordered and picked up at the game for no additional charge. Shirts can also be mailed. To order your shirt, click here . The Chicago Slaughter is proud to once again partner with Shriners Hospitals of Chicago and Operation Care Package as part of Slaughter Cares. We're hosting a Toy Drive to benefit Shriners Hospitals for Children in Chicago on April 6 and April 27. Shriners Hospitals for Children® is a health care system of 22 hospitals dedicated to improving the lives of children by providing pediatric specialty care, innovative research, and outstanding teaching programs for medical professionals. Children up to age 18 with orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lip and palate are eligible for care and receive all services in a family-centered environment, regardless of the patients' ability to pay.
The Slaughter is celebrating Military Appreciation on Saturday, May 11. The items donated will benefit Operation Care Package. Operation Care Package is a 501c3 charity dedicated to their mission that no Hero serving our Nation should be forgotten. Their goal is to support our Soldiers, Marines, Sailors and Airmen through care packages and letters of encouragement. For more information on Operation Care Package, visit their website www.operationcarepackages.org
Storm Home Opener this Sunday
The Sioux Falls Storm (1-1) is taking on the Wyoming Cavalry (0-1) at the Sioux Falls Arena. First Premier Bank is proud to be the sponsor of the 2013 Storm home opener game which kicks off this Sunday, March 17th at 3:05pm.
The Storm hopes to regain momentum after a tough loss on the road (30-21) against the Nebraska Danger; the Cavalry are also coming off of a loss (12-54) against the Cedar Rapids Titans.
The Storm defense looks to keep dominating on the field, with Tyler Knight playing a key role. Knight has made his presence known in both Storm games this season, with 22 tackles (12 solo, 10 assisted) and 1 sack.
The Cavalry's offense had 78 rushing yards, and 11 passing yards in their first game, but look to accumulate more yards during the game this week. The team will depend on leadership from quarterback Barney O'Donnell to keep the team moving forward on the field. Wyoming's defense will work hard to stop the Storm from scoring, being lead by Bruna Foster who totaled 11 tackles in this first game (7 solo, 4 assisted).
Get to the game early to see all of the new and exciting pre-game introductions. Make sure to check out the apparel stand for Storm St. Patrick's Day t-shirts and other fun items available for purchase on Sunday. Doors open at 2pm with a kick off time of 3:05pm.
Cedar Rapids Titans Partner with the Disaster Dogs of Iowa
As the Cedar Rapids Titans prepare for their next home game on March 30th at Mediacom Field inside the Cedar Rapids Ice Arena, we would like to extend an invitation to our fans and friends to join the Rockwell Collins Model Aviators Club at their Charity Fly-In on April 13th at the Eastern Iowa Sports Complex in Hiawatha.
This Fly In was created in memory of Johnathan Lloyd Ramsey, with all proceeds to benefit the Disaster Dogs of Iowa, a local non-profit corporation that supports the training of canines and their handlers in the State of Iowa, supporting law enforcement and emergency management in locating drowning victims, missing hunters, dementia patients, and those missing because of criminal acts.
On April 13th from 9 am - 5 pm there will be flying demonstrations throughout the Eastern Iowa Sports Complex by AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics) pilots from around the Midwest, door prizes, silent auction, R/C Flight simulators and more. All proceeds will benefit the Disaster Dogs of Iowa. If you would like to attend, register to fly, or donate to the cause, go to www.disasterdogsofiowa.org.
Also, Chili's has been generous to offer a voucher good through April 14th where 10% of your order's value will be donated to Disaster Dogs of Iowa. Click Here For The Chili's Voucher
THEN it's all about Titans Indoor Professional Football! Saturday, March 30th, the 4-0 Titans take on the Green Bay Blizzard at Mediacom Field inside the Cedar Rapids Ice Arena. Kickoff is at 7:05pm.
It's also 80's Night with a special Michael Jackson Tribute at Half Time. Tickets prices start at just $10. Be sure to visit the St Luke's Family Fun Zone before the game in the lobby starting at 5:30 pm with FREE inflatable bounce house, face painting, clown, activities by Macaroni Kid, band, and more!
 
Professional Indoor Football League
Panthers Call for a "Black Out"
The Back-to-Back Champion and reigning Professional Indoor Football League Champion Albany Panthers take Phoebe Field Saturday night against the in-state rival Columbus Lions of the Professional Indoor Football League want to see the fans "Black Out" the Albany Civic Center.
"Earlier in the week, our guys made it apparent that they want all Panthers fans in the house Saturday night to wear black," said General Manager Will Carter. "It doesn't really matter what it is, Panthers apparel or not, just put on as much black as you can."

Ultimate Indoor Football League
Monsters Sign Former St. Louis Rams Draft Pick Claude Wroten
The Missouri Monsters are pleased to announce the signing of former St. Louis Rams 3rd round draft pick Claude Wroten.
"We will continue to recruit the best possible players available. Our goal is to win games, and entertain fans. Wroten will help solidify our defensive line, and will help some of the younger players we have." Said Monsters Owner Andrew Haines.
He started his college career at Mississippi Delta before transferring to LSU. While at LSU Wroten was First-team All-SEC by College Football News, and Second-Team All-SEC by the Associated Press and the SEC Coaches. He played 12 games with nine starts. He recorded 44 tackles, 12 tackles for losses, and 6 sacks.
As a senior in 2005 he was named First-Team All-American by College Football News and Second-Team All -American by the Sporting News and named First-Team All-SEC by both the league's coaches and the AP. He played in 13 games with 12 starts, had 49 tackles, 10.5 tackles for losses, 6 sacks, and 26 quarterback hurries.
Wroten was drafted in the 3rd round (68th overall) of the 2006 NFL Draft. We played with the Rams during the 2006 and 2007 seasons. During his rookie season he played 15 games. He registered 24 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles. In 2009 Wroten played for the Florida Tuskers of the UFL, where he finished with 13 tackles, 2 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles.
In 2011 he signed in the Canadian Football League with the Toronto Argonauts, and in 2012 with the Edmonton Eskimos.