Lightning names Hebron coach

by IPFL Press Release
January 23, 2001 - Indoor Professional Football League (IPFL)

AHL Press Release

January 23, 2001 - The Indoor Professional Football League's Trenton Lightning received a power surge Tuesday as former NFL running back Vaughn Hebron was named the expansion franchise's inaugural head coach.

Hebron was formally introduced at a press conference inside the Sovereign Bank Arena, where he spoke of his desire to make Trenton a winner in the franchise's first year of existence. "My main focus will be solely on winning," the 30-year-old rookie head coach said. "I want to bring Trenton a winner in 2001, and I will do everything in my power to see that it's done."

Only a few years removed from a successful playing career, Hebron enters the coaching ranks with a vast amount of professional experience to draw from. The five-year NFL veteran spent two seasons in Philadelphia (1993-94) and three seasons in Denver (1996-98). In 79 games Hebron averaged 4.1 yards per carry as he rushed for 1,137 yards and seven touchdowns. He also had 41 receptions for 303 yards and returned 158 kickoffs for 3,802 yards, averaging 24.1 yards per kickoff return.

In addition to being a member of two Super Bowl champion teams with the Denver Broncos, Hebron ranked third in the AFC in kickoff returns during the 1998 season, averaging 26.4 yards per return. Prior to his professional career, he finished his collegiate career as the sixth all-time leading rusher at Virginia Tech, rushing for 2,327 yards on 481 carries.

"Vaughn was highly recommended," said Trenton Lightning owner/general manager Phil Subhan. "Throughout our meticulous search, his name was repeatedly mentioned because he fits the bill. One of Vaughn's leading characteristics is his professional demeanor, and when you combine that with the knowledge he's gained as a player on the field, you have the type of person we were looking for and need."

Shortly after getting acclimated to his new position, Hebron will begin preparing for player tryouts, which are scheduled for February 12 and 13 at the Lightning's home field, the Sovereign Bank Arena.

"I'm looking forward to seeing what type of free agent athletes we can sign," said Hebron, who resides just outside Trenton in the Philadelphia area. "There's room on the roster for professional talent, whether it's big linemen, speedy skill players or a place kicker."

More than 2,000 season tickets have already been sold for the Lightning's inaugural season in the IPFL. The 16-game season, which begins in April, features eight home games at the state-of-the-art Sovereign Bank Arena in Trenton. For tickets or more information call (609) 688-8888.

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Indoor Professional Football League Stories from January 23, 2001

• Lightning names Hebron coach - OSC Original by IPFL Press Release

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