Freedom re-sign core players
February 13, 2006 - United Indoor Football Association (UIF)
Fort Wayne Freedom News Release
FORT WAYNE, Ind - A little offense, a little defense and all are big signings for the Fort Wayne Freedom.
The team announced Monday the signing of quarterbacks Bryan White and Bill Skelton and running back Luther Stroder. Defensively, linemen Alf Fertil, Lamar Martin and defensive back Andrae Brooks are back in the fold for 2006.
"These are great team guys, guys that have been with the team essentially from the start," Owner/General Manager Rich Coffey explained. "No one is more driven to build on the amazing season last year than these guys. Like the Indianapolis Colts, we had home field advantage and had a disappointing first round loss. That memory is fresh and our guys are eager to make 2006 the year."
The Freedom finished the 2005 campaign at 13-2, before losing to 57-22 to Tennessee Valley in the first round of the United Indoor Football playoffs.
The Freedom led United Indoor Football in scoring defense (31.1ppg.), pass defense (114.3 yards per game), first in sacks (38), was second in total defense (192.1 yards allowed per game) second in turnover margin (+12), rushing defense (94.9ypg.), four in total offense (226.8),
White is the returning starter at quarterback, and the leagues most improved player last season. "He's an emotional leader that compels his teammates. Getting Bryan back was a top priority Coffey said."
In 2006, White completed 151-of-252 passes for 1,597 yards and 35 touchdowns. He also ran 31 times for 74 yards, an average of 2.3 per carry. With White as a starter, the Freedom is 15-2. A product of Mishawaka High School and Northern Michigan University (NCAA II). White works for a local branch of Enterprise Car Sales.
Bill Skelton, a teacher and assistant football coach at New Haven High School, returns after playing in seven games with the red, white and blue. Skelton completed 44-of-80 passes for 536 yards and 13 touchdowns. "We are lucky to have a solid quarterback like Skelton. It's tough to step in the starter's shoes and Bill can do that, and can do it well," Coffey said. Skelton played college football at Hillsdale College (NCCA II) in Michigan.
Luther Stroder returns for his third season. Last year he became a very important weapon in the offensive attack. "Luther has built himself into a multi-tool player. He can run, he can catch, and does a very good job on special teams," Coffey said. Stroder played locally at the University of St. Francis and Northwest High School in Indianapolis. He rushed for 182 yards on 47 carries, including 3 touchdowns. He hauled in 33 passes for 361 yards and seven touchdowns at wingback.
Andrae Brooks will return to the secondary for his fourth season. The Eastern Michigan graduate picked off six interceptions and recorded 50 tackles. "Andrae's matured as a player and as a person. Always emotional, always fiery and always involved. He makes opposing quarterbacks and receivers work every down," Coffey said.
United Indoor Football Association Stories from February 13, 2006
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- Freedom re-sign core players - Fort Wayne Freedom
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