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Plank Resigns as Philadelphia Soul Head Coach

August 16, 2012 - Arena Football League (AFL) Philadelphia Soul

PHILADELPHIA (August 16, 2012) - The American Conference champion, Philadelphia Soul announce that head coach, Doug Plank has resigned, effective immediately, from his post with the team. The fifth-year AFL coach cited a need for a break after a long grueling season. The team will look to fill the vacancy as soon as possible.

"I would like to thank the entire organization and the city of Philadelphia for how they embraced me and this team. It was an incredible run," said Plank. "I was blessed to have so many players, coaches, individuals within the organization, and most importantly - the fans - that made my job easy. In the last few days, my job description has changed. Coach Plank has now become Doug, Dad and Grandpa."

Under Plank, the Soul offense finished No. 1 in the AFL for scoring (68.2), rushing offense (44.2), turnover margin (+23). Philadelphia was the only team in 2012 to reach 15 regular-season wins, while locking up home field advantage for their Conference playoffs.

Under Plank and his staff, quarterback Dan Raudabaugh, fullback Derrick Ross, and wide receiver Tiger Jones are all set franchise and League single-season records. After winning more games in his first five seasons than any previous AFL head coach with an overall record of 64-29 (58-24 regular season) and a 6-5 postseason).

Plank was named the AFL's Coach of the Year in 2005 and 2007 as he led Georgia to the playoffs each year and ArenaBowl XIX in his first year at the helm in 2005. He spent his entire eight-year NFL playing career with the Chicago Bears. He was the first Bears' rookie to lead the team in tackles, after being drafted out of Ohio State University.

Plank was a favorite of Bears defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan for his hard hitting and aggressive style, so he named his defense the "46 defense" after Plank's jersey number. During his first three years in the AFL as an assistant coach with the Arizona Rattlers (2002-04), he made three straight ArenaBowl appearances as the defensive coordinator.

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