UIF Sioux Falls Storm

Blackburn Re-Signs as Defense Continues to Take Shape

Published on January 21, 2008 under United Indoor Football Association (UIF)
Sioux Falls Storm News Release


The Sioux Falls Storm of United Indoor Football (UIF) has re-signed one of the most feared linebackers in the UIF as Mark Blackburn will return for his sixth season in 2008. Blackburn has been involved in 567 tackles in his career and has led the team in tackles each of the last four seasons. Blackburn is the fourth returning starter from the defense to re-sign for 2008. Since Blackburn became a member of the Storm in 2003, the team has compiled a record of 69-17 and has been in four consecutive league championship games.

Blackburn led the UIF in tackles in 2007 as he compiled 114.5. Blackburn was again named to the UIF All-Star team. Blackburn has been named a UIF All-Star in each of the three seasons the UIF has existed. Blackburn also added three interceptions and 2.5 sacks in 2007. Blackburn ranks third on the teams all-time interceptions list with 15 and fourth on the career sacks list with 12. The 2007 Storm defense set league records for least amount of points allowed (364) and least rushing yards allowed (677).

In 2006, Blackburn finished fourth in the league in tackles with 94.5. He led the defense to the first and only shutout in UIF history with a 71-0 victory over Peoria on June 10, 2007.

The former University of South Dakota athlete finished the 2005 season with 97.5 tackles, which ranked third in the UIF.

Storm President Colin Steen says "Having Mark back is going to provide so much more than just tackles and statistics. The players have voted him team captain for a reason and his leadership and intensity in unmatched by any player in our league."

Season tickets for the 2008 season are on sale now. Call the Storm office at 332-4225 to reserve your seats for "The Biggest Show in Town" as the Storm look for their fourth championship in a row in 2008.

Share: Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedIn | Reddit | Email



United Indoor Football Association Stories from January 21, 2008


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.

OurSports Central