Talons To Be Featured On Reality TV Series

David Lynd, owner of the San Antonio Talons Arena Football Team, announced a partnership with local CBS affiliate, to make the station the home of a reality show. "Guts & Glory" will introduce Talon's team members to San Antonio viewers in a weekly series presenting the "behind the scenes" look at Arena Football.

The agreement will bring a 30-minute show called "Guts & Glory 2013" to KENS-TV premiering Sat. June 8, and will air for 11 weeks through August 17. The show will air on Saturdays at noon and repeated on Sundays at 5 a.m.

"We will give South Texas fans the "best" of the Talons off the field," David Lynd, Talons team owner and chief visionary officer for the EnV Group said. "Our coaches and team will candidly discuss the season to date with insight into the player's lives and game strategy."

Talons fans have the opportunity to be a part of the show by participating in interactive interview stations positioned throughout the stadium during home games and open practices.

"David has made the Talons team an essential part of the community," Jerry Kurz, commissioner of the Arena Football League said, "I was pleased that through this series the public will get to know Talons players as fathers, sons, and contributing members of San Antonio."

The Talons will participate in supporting the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital as part of the AFL Championship Game on Aug. 17.

According to Peter Anthony Andrews, show producer and CEO of EnV Media, several AFL teams are closely watching the Talons and have expressed interest in the series.

"We look forward to working together with our players to bring a great series to viewers every week on KENS 5 TV," Andrews, a former VP at NBC, Columbia Pics and MGM Studios said.

"I think this show will inspire other owners to find a way to replicate David's program in every one of our markets," said Commissioner Kurz. "We'll come to know the players much more than what we see on game day. It's been a pleasure working with David. He has the drive, determination and love for the game. He has made it his own, and I admire, respect and appreciate David for doing that."

"Being able to expose Arena Football and the San Antonio Talons through this type of media is an incredible opportunity. Arena Football is the most fan friendly sport out there, and the opportunity to present it to South Texas in this forum is something that most teams and leagues can only dream about," Keith Recine, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the San Antonio Talons said. "I am thrilled that we will be able to inspire the kind of passion we have for Arena Football in new fans around the country."

Raudabaugh, Thomas and Stephens Earn AFL Weekly Honors

Philadelphia Soul QB Dan Raudabaugh has been awarded Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Week, while San Jose SaberCats DB Clevan Thomas has been named the Riddell Defensive Player of the Week and San Antonio Talons WR D.J. Stephens has been named J. Lewis Small Playmaker of the Week for Week 10 of the 2013 NET10 Wireless Arena Football League season. In addition to these awards, the AFL is also awarding the Cutters Catch of the Week and AFL Highlight of the Week. Philadelphia Soul WR Ryan McDaniel earned the Cutters Catch of the Week, while Chicago Rush WR Reggie Gray was awarded the AFL Highlight of the Week.

RUSSELL ATHLETIC OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK Raudabaugh (6-3, 225, Miami Ohio) completed 20-of-23 passes for 297 yards and seven touchdowns in Philadelphia's 73-55 victory over the Tampa Bay Storm in Week 10. His 87 percent completion mark represents a season-high, while he tied another season-high with seven scoring strikes on the night.

RIDDELL DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK Thomas (5-10, 195, Florida State) recorded a pair of interceptions, including one returned 50 yards for a score, in San Jose's 35-34 win over the Utah Blaze in Week 10. Thomas is tied for the League lead with eight interceptions on the season. He now has 58 for his career, the second-highest total in AFL history.

J. LEWIS SMALL PLAYMAKER OF THE WEEK Stephens (5-11, 180, Arkansas-Monticello) returned two kickoffs 56 yards for touchdowns in San Antonio's 48-61 loss to the Spokane Shock in Week 10. He finished the night with 289 all-purpose yards, with 190 coming in the return game and recording another 99 as a receiver. He will receive a timepiece crafted by J. Lewis Small for his efforts.

CUTTERS CATCH OF THE WEEK McDaniel (6-3, 200, Samford) made a diving one-handed touchdown reception midway through the fourth quarter of Philadelphia's 73-55 road victory over the Tampa Bay Storm in Week 10. It was McDaniel's third of three receiving scores on the night. He will receive a Cutters hat and shirt in recognition of the catch.

AFL HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEK Gray (5-10, 185, Western Illinois) returned a kickoff 57 yards for a touchdown in the second quarter to put the Rush up for good in their 84-48 win over the New Orleans VooDoo in Week 10. Gray tallied 127 all-purpose yards in the game, with 75 coming as a return man. He also scored one touchdown as a receiver.

Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Week candidates included: Arizona QB Nick Davila, New Orleans WR Donovan Morgan, Orlando WR Prechae Rodriguez, Pittsburgh QB Steven Sheffield, Spokane QB Erik Meyer and Utah WR Aaron Lesué.

Riddell Defensive Player of the Week candidates included: Arizona DL Marcus Pittman, Chicago DB Jorrick Calvin, Cleveland DB Joe Phinisee, Orlando DB Dominic Jones, Philadelphia DL Bryan Robinson and Spokane DL Diyral Briggs.

J. Lewis Small Playmaker of the Week candidates included: Arizona WR Trandon Harvey, Jacksonville DB Jamaal Fudge, New Orleans WR Quorey Payne, Philadelphia FB Derrick Ross, Pittsburgh DB Chris LeFlore and San Jose WR Fred Williams.

The Arena Football League is also awarding the AFL MVP of the Week, where fans are given the opportunity to select the winner. Candidates include Chicago DB Jorrick Calvin, Pittsburgh DB Chris LeFlore and San Jose DB Clevan Thomas. Fans will have 24 hours to vote on ArenaFootball.com beginning at 1 p.m. ET on Wednesday, May 29. The winner will be announced on Thursday, May 30.

Morgan, Ransom and Sanders Earn AFL Weekly Honors

New Orleans VooDoo WR Donovan Morgan has been awarded Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Week, while San Antonio Talons JLB Jamar Ransom has been named the Riddell Defensive Player of the Week and Spokane Shock DB Terrance Sanders has been named J. Lewis Small Playmaker of the Week for Week 9 of the 2013 NET10 Wireless Arena Football League season. In addition to these awards, the AFL is also awarding the Cutters Catch of the Week and AFL Highlight of the Week. Pittsburgh Power JLB Alvin Ray Jackson earned the Cutters Catch of the Week, while Utah Blaze DB Al Phillips was awarded the AFL Highlight of the Week.

RUSSELL ATHLETIC OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK Morgan (6-3, 225, Pearl River CC) tied the single-game VooDoo record for receiving touchdowns with five in New Orleans' 54-65 loss to the Spokane Shock in Week 9. Morgan caught 13 passes for 255 yards, one yard shy of the single-game franchise record. It was Morgan's first multi-touchdown game since April 12.

RIDDELL DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK Ransom (6-0, 230, Oklahoma State) set a single-game Talons record with three interceptions in San Antonio's 57-33 victory over the Cleveland Gladiators in Week 9. He returned one of the interceptions for a score. The fourth-year pro also collected 7.5 tackles and two tackles for a loss in the game. Ransom leads the Talons with 39.5 tackles and six interceptions this season.

J. LEWIS SMALL PLAYMAKER OF THE WEEK Sanders (5-10, 180, Eastern Illinois) returned a 56-yard kickoff return and 15-yard interception return for touchdowns in the Shock's 65-54 victory over New Orleans in Week 9. He had six kick returns for 149 yards in the game. Sanders also led the Shock with six tackles and added two pass breakups in the contest. He has returned four kick returns for touchdowns this season and leads the League with 1,289 kick return yards. He will receive a timepiece crafted by J. Lewis Small for his efforts.

CUTTERS CATCH OF THE WEEK Jackson (6-1, 200, Albany State) hauled in a three-yard over-the-wall touchdown reception on fourth and goal from quarterback Steven Sheffield in the fourth quarter of Pittsburgh's 34-62 loss to the Tampa Bay Storm in Week 9. Jackson, an All-Arena selection at Jack linebacker a year ago, caught seven balls for 65 yards and two scores in the game. He will receive a Cutters hat and shirt in recognition of the catch.

AFL HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEK Phillips (5-11, 190, Wagner) delivered a highlight reel hit to Iowa kick returner Marcus Harris in the Blaze's 43-34 win over the Barnstormers in Week 9. Harris played a kick off the net and was immediately met by Phillips, who knocked the ball loose in the end zone.

Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Week candidates included: Arizona's Rod Windsor, Cleveland's Thyron Lewis, Philadelphia's Tiger Jones, San Jose's Russ Michna, Tampa Bay's Adrian McPherson and Utah's Mario Urrutia.

Riddell Defensive Player of the Week candidates included: Arizona's Virgil Gray, Philadelphia's Rayshaun Kizer, San Jose's Francis Maka, Spokane's Paul Stephens, Tampa Bay's James Harrell and Utah's Caesar Rayford.

J. Lewis Small Playmaker of the Week candidates included: Chicago's Reggie Gray, Orlando's Maurice Williams, San Antonio's D.J. Stephens, San Jose's Huey Whittaker, Tampa Bay's Michael Lindsey and Utah's Maurice Leggett.

The Arena Football League is also awarding the AFL MVP of the Week, where fans are given the opportunity to select the winner. Candidates include New Orleans WR Donovan Morgan, Philadelphia DB Rayshaun Kizer and San Antonio JLB Jamar Ransom. Fans will have 24 hours to vote on ArenaFootball.com beginning at 1 p.m. ET on Wednesday, May 22. The winner will be announced on Thursday, May 23.

Tampa Bay Storm Partners with Cell Phones for Soldiers, Inc.

The Tampa Bay Storm, in partnership with Clear Channel, is teaming up with nonprofit Cell Phones for Soldiers, Inc. and asking all fans to help our troops call home by donating their gently-used cellular phones. With each donation, Storm fans and Tampa residents can provide troops with that precious connection to loved ones back home.

"The Tampa Bay Storm always looks for new ways to get involved with the military community," said Storm president Derrick Brooks. "Teaming up with Cell Phones for Soldiers is an excellent way to keep our troops connected with their loved ones."

Throughout the month of May, fans and residents can donate their phones at the McDonald's® Ticket Office at the Tampa Bay Times Forum. Fans will receive a free Storm ticket voucher with each donation.

Donated phones will be sent to Mindful eCycling for recycling. For every donated phone valued at $5, Cell Phones for Soldiers is able to provide two and a half hours of free talk time to deployed troops.

Approximately half of the phones Mindful eCycling processes are reconditioned and reused. Phones and components that cannot be refurbished are dismantled and responsibly recycled to reclaim materials, including:

Gold, silver and platinum from circuit boards Copper wiring from phone chargers Nickel, iron, cadmium and lead from battery packs Plastic from phone cases and accessories

This promotion will last through the month of May in honor of Military Appreciation Night on Saturday, May 25.

Garcia, Robinson and Toliver Earn AFL Weekly Honors

Orlando Predators QB Aaron Garcia has been awarded Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Week, while Philadelphia Soul DL Bryan Robinson has been named the Riddell Defensive Player of the Week and Orlando Predators WR T.T. Toliver has been named J. Lewis Small Playmaker of the Week for Week 8 of the 2013 NET10 Wireless Arena Football League season. In addition to these awards, the AFL is also awarding the Cutters Catch of the Week and AFL Highlight of the Week. Chicago Rush WR Reggie Gray earned the Cutters Catch of the Week, while Tampa Bay Storm QB Adrian McPherson was awarded the AFL Highlight of the Week.

RUSSELL ATHLETIC OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Garcia (6-1, 195, Sacramento State) set Predators franchise records with 442 passing yards and 11 touchdowns - a mark that also represents a career-high - in Orlando's 83-82 comeback victory over the Spokane Shock in Week 8. The future Hall of Famer guided Orlando back from three separate three-touchdown deficits for the win in the second-highest scoring game in AFL history.

RIDDELL DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Robinson (6-3, 290, Wesley) recorded five tackles for loss in Philadelphia's 48-53 loss to the Pittsburgh Power in Week 8. The fourth-year pro also collected two sacks and a blocked kick in the game. Robinson leads the League in tackles for loss with 10.5 and ranks second in the AFL in sacks with 5.5 on the season.

J. LEWIS SMALL PLAYMAKER OF THE WEEK

Toliver (6-0, 180, Bethune-Cookman) broke Arena Football Hall of Famer Barry Wagner's 17-year-old Orlando franchise record with 251 receiving yards in the Predators' 83-82 victory over Spokane in Week 8. He also set a new Predators record with 18 receptions and tied the team mark for most receiving touchdowns in a game with six. It was the third consecutive game Toliver has tallied double-digit receptions and triple-digit receiving yards and the fourth straight game the nine-year veteran has recorded a touchdown reception. He will be awarded a timepiece crafted by J. Lewis Small for his efforts.

CUTTERS CATCH OF THE WEEK

Gray (5-10, 185, Western Illinois) hauled in a 32-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Danny Southwick late in the fourth quarter of Chicago's 50-53 loss to the Cleveland Gladiators in Week 8. Despite Gladiators defensive back Marrio Norman getting a hand on the ball, Gray displayed outstanding concentration to haul in his third scoring strike of the night. He will receive a Cutters hat and shirt in recognition of the catch.

AFL HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEK

McPherson (6-4, 225, Florida State) set a new single-season AFL record for rushing touchdowns by a quarterback in Week 8, recording his 23rd of the season in the Storm's 34-64 loss to the San Jose SaberCats. The record-breaking rush came in the third quarter of the game and tied the Tampa Bay franchise record for rushing touchdowns by any player in a single season. McPherson has rushed for at least two touchdowns in every game this season.

Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Week candidates included : Arizona's Nick Davila, Cleveland's Chris Dieker, Iowa's Jesse Schmidt, Pittsburgh's Mike Washington, San Antonio's D.J. Stephens and San Jose's Russ Michna.

Riddell Defensive Player of the Week candidates included : Arizona's Arkeith Brown, Chicago's Anthony Hoke, Iowa's Matangi Tonga, Jacksonville's Jerry Turner, San Jose's Ken Fontenette and Spokane's Terrance Taylor.

J. Lewis Small Playmaker of the Week candidates included : Chicago's Reggie Gray, Iowa's Marcus Harris, Pittsburgh's James Robinson, San Antonio's Nick Hill, San Jose's Huey Whittaker and Utah's David Hyland.

The Arena Football League is also awarding the AFL MVP of the Week, where fans are given the opportunity to select the winner. Candidates include Orlando QB Aaron Garcia, Philadelphia DL Bryan Robinson and San Jose DB Ken Fontenette. Fans will have 24 hours to vote on ArenaFootball.com beginning at 1 p.m. ET on Wednesday, May 15. The winner will be announced on Thursday, May 16.

Windsor, Hyland, Williams and Goodman Earn AFL Weekly Honors

Arizona Rattlers WR Rod Windsor has been awarded Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Week, while Utah Blaze DB David Hyland has been named the Riddell Defensive Player of the Week and San Jose SaberCats WR Fred Williams has been named J. Lewis Small Playmaker of the Week for Week 7 of the 2013 NET10 Wireless Arena Football League season. In addition to these awards, the AFL is also awarding the Cutters Catch of the Week and AFL Highlight of the Week. Cleveland Gladiators WR Dominick Goodman earned the Cutters Catch of the Week, while San Jose SaberCats WR Fred Williams was awarded the AFL Highlight of the Week.

RUSSELL ATHLETIC OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Windsor (6-2, 205, Western New Mexico) caught a season-high 15 passes for 159 yards and five touchdowns in Arizona's 58-48 victory over the Jacksonville Sharks in Week 7. Windsor has caught a touchdown pass in five straight games and at least three scores in three of the Rattlers' last four contests.

RIDDELL DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Hyland (6-0, 190, Morehead State) recorded a team-high 6.5 tackles, one forced fumble, two fumble recoveries and four pass breakups, including one on fourth down with 11 seconds remaining in regulation to preserve Utah's 52-48 victory over the Spokane Shock in Week 7. Hyland has recorded 31 tackles and is tied for the team lead with three interceptions on the season.

J. LEWIS SMALL PLAYMAKER OF THE WEEK

Williams (6-0, 195, St. Cloud State) caught four passes for 35 yards and returned two kickoffs for touchdowns in the SaberCats' 56-36 victory over the Cleveland Gladiators in Week 7. Williams finished the game with 182 all-purpose yards. He will be awarded a timepiece crafted by J. Lewis Small for his efforts.

CUTTERS CATCH OF THE WEEK

Goodman (6-1, 210, Cincinnati) went over-the-boards for a 17-yard touchdown grab in Cleveland's 36-56 loss to the San Jose SaberCats in Week 7. It was Goodman's second touchdown of the night. He also rushed for a score late in the second quarter. He will receive a Cutters hat and shirt in recognition of the catch.

AFL HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEK

Williams (6-0, 195, St. Cloud State) returned two kickoffs for scores in San Jose's 56-36 victory over the Cleveland Gladiators in Week 7. Following Cleveland's first score of the game, Williams returned the kickoff 57 yards for a touchdown to extend the SaberCats' lead to 21-6 early in the second quarter. When the Gladiators scored for a second time just before the end of the first half, Williams struck again with a 55-yard kickoff return touchdown.

Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Week candidates included : Iowa's Jesse Schmidt, Jacksonville's Jeron Harvey, Orlando's T.T. Toliver, Philadelphia's Tiger Jones, San Jose's Jason Willis, Tampa Bay's Adrian McPherson and Utah's Mario Urrutia.

Riddell Defensive Player of the Week candidates included : Arizona's Marquis Floyd, Iowa's De'Mon Glanton, Pittsburgh's Alvin Ray Jackson, Philadelphia's LaRico Stevenson, San Jose's Jason Stewart and Tampa Bay's Pernell Phillips.

J. Lewis Small Playmaker of the Week candidates included : Arizona's Nick Davila, Iowa's Marcus Harris, Pittsburgh's Alvin Ray Jackson, Philadelphia's Ryan McDaniel, Tampa Bay's Adrian McPherson and Utah's Aaron Lesue.

The Arena Football League is also awarding the AFL MVP of the Week, where fans are given the opportunity to select the winner. Candidates include Arizona WR Rod Windsor, Iowa WR Marcus Harris and San Jose WR Fred Williams. Fans will have 24 hours to vote on ArenaFootball.com beginning at 1 p.m. ET on Wednesday, May 8. The winner will be announced on Thursday, May 9.

Philadelphia Soul Player Awarded Department of Defense "Seven Seals Award"

Philadelphia Soul Arena Football player, Morkeith Brown was recognized by the EMPLOYER SUPPORT OF THE GUARD AND RESERVE (ESGR) with a "Seven Seals Award" for helping to bring awareness to the service and sacrifice of America's military members and to promote the hiring of citizen soldiers and veterans by the business community.

The award, depicting the heraldry seals of the seven military services, is given at the discretion of the ESGR State Chairman to recognize the efforts by a citizen, business, or organization, whose supportive actions have benefited all of the Guard/Reserve components and the U.S. Armed Forces in a significant manner.

ESGR is a mostly volunteer, Department of Defense agency which seeks to create a culture where American employers value and support the military service of their Guard and Reserve employees. They recognize outstanding support, increase awareness of the law, and resolve conflicts through mediation.

New Jersey ESGR Committee Chairman Col. Alan Smith (Ret.) USMC presented the award to the Philadelphia Soul linebacker at the Coliseum Sports Center, following a regularly scheduled practice, on Wednesday, May 1st.

Morkeith Brown served with the United States Army in Afghanistan in 2005 and his awards include the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal and the Support of Operation Enduring Freedom Medal.

As part of the Philadelphia Soul and The Judge Group's (a global professional services firm) June 22 Military Appreciation Night at the Wells Fargo Center, Brown will be assisting in the selection of veterans and military members to play in the first ever Army-Navy Veterans Arena Football game. All branches of the Armed Forces are eligible to play including guardsmen, reservists and veterans.

The day, set aside for patriotic-awareness, will also include a "Speed Career Net-Working Event" exclusively for transitioning military service members, wounded warriors, veterans and military spouses from 1:30-4:30 p.m. at the Wells Fargo Center's Cadillac Grille.

Following the award presentation, Col. Alan Smith reflected, "Morkeith Brown is a wonderful example of determination and gentlemanly character."

Army-Navy Football To Get An AFL Twist

By John George

The Philadelphia Soul and The Judge Group are joining forces to stage an Army-Navy Veterans Arena Football Game on June 22 at the Wells Fargo Center.

The game — which will feature teams made up of active reservists, and veterans — will be part of the Philadelphia Soul’s “Military Appreciation Night” game against Iowa.

The game between the two branches is being played to help raise awareness about the need for employment opportunities for veterans. Veterans will have the opportunity to network with Philadelphia-area employees and receiving transitioning assistance during the event in a program being led by The Judge Group’s newest division, Judge Veterans in Professional Careers.

Martin E. Judge Jr., a minority owner of the Soul, is CEO of The Judge Group, a professional services firm based in West Conshohocken, Pa.

The event will begin with at “Stars and Stripes Fan Fest” from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., which will include military interactive areas and displays as well as live entertainment.

Tryouts for the Army vs. Navy Veterans Arena Football Game will be held on May 4 and May 12 at the Pinelands Sports Center in Southampton, NJ. The tryouts will be open to all past and present service-members of the Armed Forces. For more information, email Joe Krause at jkrause@philadelphiasoul.com.

Sharks Offer Exclusive One-Day Presale On KISS and ArenaBowl Tickets

The 2012 South Division Champion Jacksonville Sharks announced Wednesday that the team is offering an exclusive package of tickets to ArenaBowl XXVI and the KISS performance that headlines ArenaBowl weekend. The concert and game will be held at the Amway Center in Orlando on August 16 and 17, respectively."¨

Beginning this evening, Shark season ticket holders can purchase KISS and ArenaBowl XXVI tickets on Ticketmaster.com. This offer is exclusive for Sharks Season Ticket Holders, and will be available until 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 3.

"We hope to pair the hottest band in the world with the hottest team in the AFL on August 16-17 in Orlando, Florida at the Amway Center," stated Sharks Managing Partner Jeff Bouchy. "We always aim to give Shark Nation the ultimate fan experience, and allowing our season ticket holders to purchase KISS and ArenaBowl XXVI tickets before they go on sale to the general public is a continuation of this experience and our dedication to them.""¨

The tickets available through this exclusive offer are located in premier sections that are not currently available to the general public. Specific instructions about how to take advantage of this offer will be emailed to Shark season ticket holders this evening. Season Ticket Holders who inadvertently do not receive the email may obtain these exclusive instructions by calling the Sharks ticket office at (904) 621-0700.

Storm Season Ticket Members Receive Added Benefit

The Tampa Bay Storm is adding a new benefit to the season ticket member (STM) ticket package. Prior to its May 4th matchup versus the New Orleans VooDoo, all Storm season ticket members will receive an exclusive STM discount card.

The STM discount card entitles season ticket members to a 15% off discount on food and beverages, and a 25% off discount on merchandise sold at the Tampa Bay Sports Store. Discounts are exclusive to season ticket members, and are good for all of the Tampa Bay Storm home games at the Tampa Bay Times Forum.

To take advantage of these discounts, season ticket members must present the discount card separate from their STM ticket card.

The STM discount card is non-transferable, and may not be combined with any other discounts.

For more information contact Client Services at 813.301.6800.

McPherson, Belton and Gray Earn Weekly AFL Honors

Tampa Bay Storm QB Adrian McPherson has been awarded Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Week, while Jacksonville Sharks DB Tracy Belton has been named the Riddell Defensive Player of the Week and Chicago Rush WR Reggie Gray has been named J. Lewis Small Playmaker of the Week for Week 6 of the 2013 NET10 Wireless Arena Football League season. In addition to these awards, the AFL is also awarding the Cutters Catch of the Week and AFL Highlight of the Week. Cleveland Gladiators DB Lenny Wicks earned the Cutters Catch of the Week, while Chicago Rush WR Jared Jenkins was awarded the AFL Highlight of the Week.

RUSSELL ATHLETIC OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

McPherson (6-4, 225, Florida State) accounted for 10 total touchdowns for the second time this season in Tampa Bay's 70-62 victory over the Spokane Shock in Week 6. McPherson completed 21-of-26 passes for 310 yards and seven touchdowns through the air, while adding another 50 yards and three scores on the ground. His 17 rushing attempts also represents the highest single-game total in the AFL this season. This is the second time McPherson has earned Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Week honors this season.

RIDDELL DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Belton (6-1, 180, Massachusetts) played a pivotal role in keeping the Sharks undefeated record intact during the team's 55-53 victory over the Philadelphia Soul in Week 6. Belton tallied seven tackles, including a half-tackle for loss, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery and two pass breakups.

J. LEWIS SMALL PLAYMAKER OF THE WEEK

Gray (5-10, 185, Western Illinois) tied the Chicago Rush single-game franchise record for touchdown receptions with six in the team's 64-63 overtime win against the Iowa Barnstormers in Week 6. Gray collected 12 receptions for 234 yards on the night. He also tallied 116 yards as a return specialist, bringing his game total to 350 all-purpose yards. He will be awarded a timepiece crafted by J. Lewis Small for his efforts.

CUTTERS CATCH OF THE WEEK

Wicks (5-10, 200, Youngstown State) made an over-the-wall interception to end the first half in Cleveland's 57-40 loss to the Utah Blaze in Week 6. The interception was the first of the season for the third-year defensive back. Wicks also finished the game with a team-high 9.5 tackles. He will receive a Cutters hat and shirt in recognition of the catch.

AFL HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEK

Jenkins (6-3, 230, Wisconsin-Stevens Point) collected his biggest reception of the year on a two-point conversion pass from Rush quarterback Carson Coffman in the team's 64-63 overtime victory against the Iowa Barnstormers. Following a two-yard touchdown run by Kelvin Morris to bring the Rush within one of the Barnstormers, Chicago elected to pass up a tie and go for the win. The gamble paid off when Coffman found Jenkins for the game-winning score. This marks the second consecutive week a Rush player has been awarded the AFL Highlight of the Week following a game-winning play.

Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Week candidates included : Arizona's Odie Armstrong, Chicago's Reggie Gray, Jacksonville's Jeron Harvey, Pittsburgh's Mike Washington, San Jose's Russ Michna and Utah's Tommy Grady.

Riddell Defensive Player of the Week candidates included : Arizona's Jeremy Kellem, Chicago's Jorrick Calvin, Cleveland's Lenny Wicks, Pittsburgh's Chris LeFlore, San Antonio's Tim McGill, San Jose's Clevan Thomas and Tampa Bay's Rodney Beamon.

J. Lewis Small Playmaker of the Week candidates included : Iowa's Marcus Harris, Jacksonville's Jeff Hughley, Orlando's Dominic Jones, San Antonio's Dwayne Eley, Jr., San Jose's Huey Whittaker, Tampa Bay's Joe Hills and Utah's David Hyland.

The Arena Football League is also awarding the AFL MVP of the Week, where fans are given the opportunity to select the winner. Candidates include Chicago Rush WR Reggie Gray, Iowa WR Marcus Harris and Tampa Bay WR Joe Hills. Fans will have 24 hours to vote on ArenaFootball.com beginning at 1 p.m. ET on Wednesday, May 1. The winner will be announced on Thursday, May 2.

Meyer, Goosby and Hughley Earn AFL Weekly Honors

Spokane Shock QB ERIK MEYER has been awarded Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Week, while Philadelphia Soul JLB JOE GOOSBY has been named the Riddell Defensive Player of the Week and Jacksonville Sharks WR JEFF HUGHLEY has been named J. Lewis Small Playmaker of the Week for Week 4 of the 2013 NET10 Wireless Arena Football League season. In addition to these awards, the AFL is also awarding the Cutters Catch of the Week and AFL Highlight of the Week. Spokane Shock WR ADRON TENNELL earned the Cutters Catch of the Week, while Jacksonville Sharks WR JEFF HUGHLEY was awarded the AFL Highlight of the Week.

RUSSELL ATHLETIC OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Meyer (6-2, 215, Eastern Washington) completed 27-of-43 passes for 351 yards and eight touchdowns in Spokane's 66-49 victory over the Arizona Rattlers in Week 4. It was the third consecutive 300-yard game for the League's passing leader. Meyer has thrown for an AFL-high 1,279 yards and 32 touchdowns through four games in 2013. He has not thrown an interception this season.

RIDDELL DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Goosby (6-1, 245, Tulane) recorded new career-highs with three tackles for loss and two sacks in Philadelphia's 54-43 victory over the Iowa Barnstormers in the 2013 Hall of Fame Game. The third-year pro's big plays came when the Soul needed them most, as Goosby halted the Barnstormers behind the line of scrimmage on third and fourth down-and-goal on a critical third quarter drive, which shifted the momentum permanently back to Philadelphia.

J. LEWIS SMALL PLAYMAKER OF THE WEEK

Hughley (5-8, 180, Averett) scored the first three touchdowns of the game in Jacksonville's 76-30 thumping of the New Orleans VooDoo in Week 4. He may have only had two catches in the contest, but both receptions counted for six points. Hughley also scored a third touchdown on a 52-yard missed field goal return. The game marked the fourth consecutive contest that the 2012 J. Lewis Small Ironman of the Year tallied both multiple touchdown receptions and triple-digit all-purpose yards. He will be awarded a timepiece crafted by J. Lewis Small for his efforts.

CUTTERS CATCH OF THE WEEK

Tennell (6-5, 210, Oklahoma) recorded the go-ahead score with just less than seven minutes to play in the Shock's 66-49 victory over the Arizona Rattlers. The League's leading receiver hauled in a 24-yard strike from Meyer with one hand to put Spokane on top for good. The touchdown was Tennell's third of four on the night, marking the ninth consecutive game in which he has recorded multiple touchdown receptions. He will receive a Cutters hat and shirt in recognition of the catch.

AFL HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEK

Hughley (5-8, 180, Averett) recorded the first missed field goal return touchdown in Sharks franchise history in Week 4. When New Orleans kicker Gary Cismesia failed to convert on a long kick midway through the first quarter, Hughley scooped up the loose ball and raced 52 yards for a score.

Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Week candidates included : Chicago's Reggie Gray, Jacksonville's Rendrick Taylor, Phialdelphia's Tiger Jones and San Antonio's Nick Hill.

Riddell Defensive Player of the Week candidates included : Chicago's Joe Phinisee, Jacksonville's Terrance Smith, Philadelphia's Bryan Robinson, San Antonio's Joe Sykes, San Antonio's Tim McGill and Spokane's Beau Bell.

J. Lewis Small Playmaker of the Week candidates included : Chicago's Carson Coffman, Iowa's Marcus Harris, Philadelphia's Joe Goosby, San Antonio's Dwayne Eley, Jr. and Spokane's Adron Tennell.

The Arena Football League is also awarding the AFL MVP of the Week, where fans are given the opportunity to select the winner. Candidates include Jacksonville Sharks DB TERRANCE SMITH, Philadelphia Soul JLB JOE GOOSBY and San Antonio Talons DL JOE SYKES. Fans will have 24 hours to vote on ArenaFootball.com beginning at 1 p.m. ET on Wednesday, April 17. The winner will be announced on Thursday, April 18.

Des Moines to Host AFL Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

Eyes from around the Arena Football League will focus on Des Moines over the next few days for the Annual AFL Hall of Fame Weekend. The six member class of 2012 announced last fall, will be officially inducted at a 7:00 pm ceremony this Friday night, April 12 at the Veteran's Memorial Community Choice Convention Center in Des Moines. In addition, the new class of Hall of Famers will attend the Barnstormers game vs. Philadelphia on Saturday, April 13 where they will be honored on-field at halftime.

Included in the class of 2012 is current Iowa Barnstormers Head Coach Mike Hohensee. Hohensee is in his second season with the Barnstormers. He boasts an extensive career of both playing and coaching in the AFL. He is known as the only player/coach who has been part of the league in some capacity for all 26 seasons. His career highlights in the AFL include throwing the first Touchdown pass in league history while with the Pittsburgh Gladiators in 1987. Coaching highlights include his 144 career wins, which rank him 3rd all-time in AFL history, and his ArenaBowl XX Championship as Head Coach of the Chicago Rush in 2006.

Joining Hohensee in the class of 2012 are QB Sherdrick Bonner, the Greatest Quarterback in AFL History according to the Silver Anniversary Committee in 2012; Coach Mike Dailey, a two-time ArenaBowl champion coach (XIII, XIX) QB Clint Dolezel, a three-time All-Arena selection and a passing leader of the AFL for four years and current coach of the Philadelphia Soul; WR/DB Randy Gatewood, a six-time All-Arena selection and three-time All-Ironman selection; and William Niro, one of the original founders of the AFL; Fans and current Hall of Fame members voted on the finalists during the months of June and July. 10 finalists were then selected and turned over to the Hall of Fame Board of Directors, who officially selected the AFL hall of Fame class of 2012.

Tickets to the April 12 ceremony are FREE to the public, but are limited. To reserve your tickets call the Barnstormers Front Office at 515.633.2255. Tickets for Saturday night's home game remain on sale beginning at just $12.00 per seat. Kickoff is set for 6:05pm. To order your tickets head to the arena box office, call the Barnstormers at 633-2255 or order online at www.theiowabarnstormers.com.

Hills, Everett and Goodman Earn AFL Weekly Honors

Tampa Bay Storm WR JOE HILLS has been awarded Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Week, while Orlando Predators JLB MARCUS EVERETT has been named the Riddell Defensive Player of the Week and Cleveland Gladiators WR DOMINICK GOODMAN has been named J. Lewis Small Playmaker of the Week for Week 3 of the 2013 NET10 Wireless Arena Football League season. In addition to these awards, the AFL is also awarding the Cutters Catch of the Week and AFL Highlight of the Week. Utah Blaze WR MARIO URRUTIA earned the Cutters Catch of the Week, while Spokane Shock QB ARVELL NELSON was awarded the AFL Highlight of the Week.

RUSSELL ATHLETIC OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Hills (6-4, 210, Tennessee State) recorded career-highs in Week 3 with 16 receptions for 259 yards in the Storm's 77-65 victory over the Utah Blaze. Both marks represent League-highs in 2013, while his 259 receiving yards represents the most in Storm franchise history and the third-highest single-game total in League history. Hills also tallied five touchdowns in the game, marking his seventh consecutive contest with multiple touchdown receptions.

RIDDELL DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Everett (6-2, 205, UCLA) got the Predators out to an early 14-0 lead in Week 3 by scoring both of the team's first half touchdowns in a 61-33 loss to the Philadelphia Soul. Everett opened the game with a 22-yard fumble recovery return for a touchdown and came back on the ensuing drive to record his seventh career interception return for a score.

J. LEWIS SMALL PLAYMAKER OF THE WEEK

Goodman (6-1, 210, Cincinnati) hauled in nine catches for 118 yards and three touchdowns in Cleveland's 66-49 loss to the Jacksonville Sharks in Week 3. He also shined as a kick return specialist, tallying 157 yards on six returns to turn in a final all-purpose yardage mark of 275 in the game, the highest single-game total in the AFL this season. He will be awarded a timepiece crafted by J. Lewis Small for his efforts.

CUTTERS CATCH OF THE WEEK

Urrutia (6-5, 230, Louisville) went backwards over the wall for a 16-yard touchdown grab in the final seconds of Utah's 77-65 loss to the Tampa Bay Storm in Week 3. It was Urrutia's second touchdown catch of the night, marking the third consecutive game the rookie receiver totaled multiple touchdown receptions. He will receive a Cutters hat and shirt in recognition of the catch.

AFL HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEK

Nelson (6-5, 225, Texas Southern) made an improbable nine-yard touchdown reception to close out the Shock's 66-43 victory over the Iowa Barnstormers in Week 3. The backup quarterback entered the game late in the fourth quarter, lining up as a receiver. With just more than three minutes to play, Nelson made a sliding snag on a ball off the wall for the final points of the game.

Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Week candidates included : Arizona's Odie Armstrong, Jacksonville's Markee White, Philadelphia's Tiger Jones, San Antonio's Chad Cook, Spokane's Erik Meyer and Tampa Bay's Adrian McPherson.

Riddell Defensive Player of the Week candidates included : Arizona's Virgil Gray, Jacksonville's Rashaad Duncan, San Antonio's Victor Degrate, Spokane's Terrance Sanders and Tampa Bay's Jean Fanor.

J. Lewis Small Playmaker of the Week candidates included : Arizona's Kerry Reed, Chicago's Rodney Wright, Orlando's Marcus Everett, Spokane's Kamar Jorden, San Jose's Mervin Brookins and Tampa Bay's Joe Hills.

The Arena Football League is also awarding the AFL MVP of the Week, where fans are given the opportunity to select the winner. Candidates include Spokane Shock QB ERIK MEYER, Tampa Bay Storm WR JOE HILLS and Tampa Bay Storm QB ADRIAN McPHERSON. Fans will have 24 hours to vote on ArenaFootball.com beginning at 1 p.m. ET on Wednesday, April 10. The winner will be announced on Thursday, April 11.

Arena Football Hall Of Fame Special To Air On CBS Sports Network

CBS Sports Network will produce and broadcast an Arena Football Hall of Fame television special, the NET10 Wireless Arena Football League announced today. The 30-minute program will feature each member of the 2012 Arena Football Hall of Fame Class along with showcasing the birth and history of the Arena Football Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place on Friday, April 12 in Des Moines, IA and will play a prominent role within the television special.

The Week 4 "NET10 Wireless Arena Football Saturday" contest between the Iowa Barnstormers and Philadelphia Soul will kickoff at 7 p.m. ET on Saturday, April 13 and will air on CBS Sports Network immediately following the Network's golf coverage. In addition, the game will be replayed several times during the following week.

"We appreciate that CBS Sports Network values our Hall of Fame at a high enough level to produce a television special around it," AFL Commissioner Jerry B. Kurz said. "While our Week 4 contest will not air live, we are excited by the additional resources that our television partner is making available to us so that we can give this hallowed event its due."

The 2012 Arena Football Hall of Fame Class includes: QB SHERDRICK BONNER, voted the Greatest Quarterback in AFL History by the Silver Anniversary Committee in 2012; HC MIKE DAILEY, a two-time ArenaBowl champion coach (XIII, XIX); QB CLINT DOLEZEL, a three-time All-Arena selection and a passing leader of the AFL for four years; WR/DB RANDY GATEWOOD, a six-time All-Arena selection and three-time All-Ironman selection; current Iowa Barnstormers HC MIKE HOHENSEE, who won ArenaBowl XX as the Chicago Rush Head Coach and owns the third spot in AFL history for most regular season wins, FOUNDING PARTNER WILLIAM NIRO, one of the original founders of the AFL.

San Antonio Talons, Momentum Physical Therapy Launch Youth Health And Fitness Program

The San Antonio Talons have teamed up with Momentum Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab to launch a new educational initiative — “Don’t Stop the Momentum.”

The program will educate students about the importance of living an active and healthy life. Participants will also learn proper nutrition and injury prevention.

Talons representatives and Momentum physical therapy staff will provide presentations to students, teaching them exercises and functional movements.

“Proper care for your body and attention to nutrition has to start at a young age,” said John Malfer, co-owner of Momentum Physical Therapy. “We are educating students to encourage them to confront the risk of complacency and injury with proactive and preventative measures to lead to a healthier future.”

The Talons and Momentum will give presentations to students in the North East, Northside, San Antonio and South San Antonio independent school districts.

Interested schools can call 210-390-4284 for more information on the new program.

Native American Tribe To Sponsor Rattlers

The Arizona Rattlers have secured new sponsorship from the Ak-Chin tribe, which will see its home venue renamed Ak-Chin field.

The native American community, which has nearly 1,000 members, owns a casino and other entertainment properties in Arizona but did not reveal how much it was investing in the sponsorship.

“We are excited about the partnership we are fostering with the Arizona Rattlers,” said Ak-Chin tribal chairman Louis J. Manuel Jr.

“We respect the Rattlers’ commitment to community and know that our children will really enjoy the programmes this relationship will foster.”

Ak-Chin's tribal seal will be displayed at both ends of the Rattlers' field, while the agreement also includes plans for a series of activation events at the Ak-Chin-owned UltraStar Multi-tainment Center, which features cinemas, bowling, restaurants and live entertainment.

Meyer, Benton and Whittaker Earn AFL Weekly Honors

Spokane Shock QB ERIK MEYER has been awarded Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Week, while Iowa Barnstormers DB TER'RAN BENTON has been named the Riddell Defensive Player of the Week and San Jose SaberCats WR HUEY WHITTAKER has been named J. Lewis Small Playmaker of the Week for Week 1 of the 2013 NET10 Wireless Arena Football League season. In addition to these awards, the AFL is also awarding the Cutters Catch of the Week and AFL Highlight of the Week. New Orleans VooDoo DB EDDIE MOTEN earned the Cutters Catch of the Week, while Arizona Rattlers DL MARCUS PITTMAN was awarded the AFL Highlight of the Week.

RUSSELL ATHLETIC OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Meyer (6-2, 215, Eastern Washington) accounted for nine total touchdowns in Spokane's 67-41 victory over the Cleveland Gladiators in Week 1. Meyer completed 32-of-42 passes for 284 yards and eight touchdowns, finishing the day with a 133.3 quarterback rating. He also rushed twice for 16 yards and a score.

RIDDELL DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Benton (6-0, 205, Iowa State) recovered a live ball off the net on a Barnstormers' kickoff and took it in for a five-yard touchdown in Iowa's 63-41 win over the Chicago Rush in Week 1. He also snagged an interception in the game.

J. LEWIS SMALL PLAYMAKER OF THE WEEK

Whittaker (6-5, 225, South Florida) caught eight passes for 89 yards and four touchdowns as a receiver in San Jose's 47-42 victory over the San Antonio Talons in Week 1. He also starred on the defensive side of the ball, recording three tackles, one forced fumble and a 45-yard interception return for a touchdown. He will be awarded a timepiece crafted by J. Lewis Small for his efforts.

CUTTERS CATCH OF THE WEEK

Moten (5-10, 185, Texas A&M-Kingsville) recorded a game-winning interception in the end zone to seal New Orleans' 51-45 overtime victory against the Orlando Predators in Week 1. Moten finished the game with 4.5 tackles. Moten will receive a Cutters hat and shirt in recognition of the catch.

AFL HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEK

Pittman (6-5, 290, Troy) recovered two fumbles in Arizona's 66-52 victory over the Philadelphia Soul in Week 1, including one that resulted in a 44-yard return for a touchdown. With 14:14 left in regulation, Pittman scooped up a Derrick Ross fumble and took it nearly the length of the field for a score.

Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Week candidates included : Arizona's Nick Davila, Iowa's J.J. Raterink, Orlando's Jason Geathers, Spokane's Adron Tennell, Tampa Bay's Adrian McPherson and Utah's Mario Urrutia.

Riddell Defensive Player of the Week candidates included : Arizona's Virgil Gray, Jacksonville's Tracy Belton, New Orleans' Demarcus Robinson, San Antonio's Fred Shaw, Spokane's James Ruffin and Utah's Maurice Leggett.

J. Lewis Small Playmaker of the Week candidates included : Chicago's Reggie Gray, Cleveland's Thyron Lewis, Orlando's Prechae Rodriguez, Philadelphia's Tiger Jones, Tampa Bay's Greg Ellingson and Utah's Brandon Thompkins.

The Arena Football League is also awarding the MVP of the Week, where fans are given the opportunity to select the winner. Candidates include San Jose SaberCats WR HUEY WHITTAKER, Spokane Shock QB ERIK MEYER and Tampa Bay Storm QB ADRIAN McPHERSON. Fans will have 24 hours to vote on ArenaFootball.com beginning at 1 p.m. ET on Wednesday, March 27. The winner will be announced on Thursday, March 28.