AFL Philadelphia Soul

Big Heart in Soul's Big-Man Powell

Published on July 15, 2011 under Arena Football League (AFL)
Philadelphia Soul News Release


PHILADELPHIA - Just one week shy of the 2011 regular season finale, Soul offensive lineman and `BFG' (big friendly giant), Robbie Powell, will make the move south to join the Virginia Destroyers of the United Football League. But, his impact on the Soul offensive line should have fans excited for 2012.

At 6-5 and 310 pounds, No. 68 made his Soul debut on June 17 against the Tulsa Talons where he took the field with a little more confidence than most newcomers. Robbie showcased his talents snapping to former college teammate and Soul quarterback, Brandon Kirsch.

"Kirsch and I were teammates for a few years at Purdue," said Robbie."We are familiar with each other and understand how to communicate well, after doing it so long together."

Before his days at Purdue, Robbie grew up playing basketball in Asheville, NC where he lived with his mother.

"I grew up playing basketball and was working towards playing college basketball," Robbie said.

It wasn't until his senior year of high school that Robbie moved to Roanoke, VA to live with his father that he joined the football team and quickly excelled.

However, being only 220 pounds and 17 years old upon graduation, Robbie knew his lack of size and athletic immaturity would set him back as a college prospect.

"I decided to go to prep school for a year at Fork Union Military Academy," said Robbie. "They are very big in helping place athletes into universities. During my time there I played against very good competition and got a chance to bulk up and mature physically."

Robbie's performance at Fork Union Military Academy earned him a full ride to Purdue University.

"I was groomed from the start to play center at Purdue," Robbie said."I ended up starting three years at Purdue - two at center and one year at guard."

In his three years as a Boilermaker, Robbie earned the NewcomerAward, the Pitbull Award for his tenacity andAll Big Ten honors as a senior. After graduating, Robbie spent time with the Cleveland Browns of the NFL.

Robbie has also made appearances with the New Orleans Saints of the NFL, the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League, the Peoria Pirates under Coach Hohensee in the af2, as well as the Tampa Bay Storm and San Jose SaberCats of the AFL.

Robbie landed his spot on the Soul roster through a mid-season trade which brought him from San Jose to the `City of Brotherly Love'.

"I enjoy the game, whether indoor or outdoor," Robbie said."I'm blessed to be able to still be playing no matter what level. I hope to still get a shot again one day at the NFL, but until then I'll stay hungry to be the best at my position in any league."

In his free time you can find Robbie at a coffee shop reading a book, spending time with friends or listening to music. He hopes to pursue a career in some type of business/banking/sales, or coaching, and would also like to get involved in ministry or missionary work someday.

Robbie describes himself as a likeable person who is able to listen and take direction, while also leading and teaching others very well.

"I try to have as much humility in my life as possible," Robbie said.

While Robbie may be taking his talents to Virginia this Fall, Philly hopes to see him back in Soul blue for the 2012 season.

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Arena Football League Stories from July 15, 2011


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