Another former Tar Heel star joins Lions
Published on January 12, 2007 under World Indoor Football League 2 (WIFL 2)
Columbus Lions News Release
COLUMBUS, GA, January 12 -- The Columbus Lions may be geographically situated in the heart of SEC football country, and to be sure, have signed two former Auburn and one ex-Georgia player to their 2007 World Indoor Football League roster (defensive backs Roshard Gilyard and Brandon Williams, and quarterback Andrew McKay).
But you can't blame Head Coach Jason Gibson, a Maryland native who's coached several years in North Carolina, for recognizing Atlantic Coast Conference talent, as he announced his third major player signing of the week from the ACC. The University of North Carolina's 6'2", 215-pound defensive back Mahlon Carey follows UNC receiver and teammate Jarwarski Pollock and Georgia Tech defensive tackle Omar Billy as the newest Lions under contract.
In four years at UNC, Carey started 28 games and played in 39. He recorded 196 career tackles, with a high of 96 as a sophomore in 2003. Other career statistics include 14 tackles for loss, five sacks, 12 pass breakups, two interceptions, four forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries.
A versatile collegian, Carey played in six games as a running back as a true freshman, gaining 222 yards on 56 carries, a 4.0 average. He also returned five punts for 73 yards (14.6 average), blocked a punt and had numerous special teams tackles. He was primarily a strong safety for UNC but also played linebacker.
"Mahlon has a nose for the ball and is a sure tackler," said Gibson. "He has great size and speed and will solidify our team defense. We made a commitment as a staff to improve our defense with youth and speed and I think we have accomplished it. Mahlon fits that model, and my roster is now complete."
Carey is from Marietta, keeping with Gibson's preference that most of the Lions be natives or residents of Georgia or Alabama. The local touch, talent level, intelligence, character and good citizenship have all factored heavily in Gibson's scouting and recruiting efforts.
Training camp for the Lions begins February 5 at the Columbus Civic Center. The team plays its first game at Daytona Beach on February 26, with the home opener slated for Saturday, March 10 at 7 p.m. For the full Lions roster, team news, ticket and league information, visit www.columbuslions.net and www.wifl.us.
World Indoor Football League 2 Stories from January 12, 2007
- Another former Tar Heel star joins Lions - Columbus Lions
- Thunder season ticket window winding down - Daytona Beach Thunder
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
