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Blaze Training Camp, Day Five

January 12, 2006 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Utah Blaze News Release


SALT LAKE CITY - Have you ever wanted to put on the pads? Would you be able to handle the double-session practices, sprints or route-running drills?

University of Utah student, MARK GARDNER, finally got his shot on Wednesday after winning a "Player-For-A-Day" contest, held by the official Utah Blaze flagship radio station, 1280 The Zone. The experience opened Gardner's eyes and gave him a new-found respect for the Arena Football League.

"If anybody thinks this sport is not legitimate - they are crazy," a tired Gardner said after practice. "This game is much faster than I thought it would be. One thing is for sure, I will have my tickets and bring my friends to the Delta Center for this - it's awesome!"

Blaze head coach/general manager DANNY WHITE was asked if Gardner had impressed the coaches enough to earn a spot on the roster.

"Uh, no," White said jokingly. "One thing I was impressed with was his ability to avoid contact!"

On the serious side, White said that he was glad that Gardner had the opportunity.

"I think people might have some misconceptions about Arena Football," White said. "Six of the eight players must play both sides of the ball. It is ‘Ironman football' at its finest and takes a very special athlete. Fans will see that when they witness it in person."

DEFENSE!

Assistant head coach/defensive coordinator LEE LESLIE was all smiles during the team's "Red Zone" drills this morning. Sixth-year DS KELVIN HUNTER shined as he was able to read and anticipate effectively and made a big hit on WR/LB EMMETT WHITE as he denied a touchdown.

"K-Hun is stepping up as a leader on this defense," Leslie said. "It is great when players take the initiative and lead by example. THAL WOODS is doing the same thing. I like what those two have been doing and helping the younger guys come along."

One of those younger guys is AFL All-Rookie team candidate DS KEVIN MOFFETT.

"Moffett has the potential to make a huge impact in the secondary," Leslie said. "He still has some learning to do, but the tools are definitely there."

BLAZE WELCOMES FANS TO FANFEST ON THURSDAY

The Blaze's Manager of Marketing, JAELYN CARRILLO, and Director of Game Operations, TOM SCHIMPF, are encouraging fans to come to Fanfest at the Delta Center, Thursday, January 12 from 4 until 7 p.m. Fans will have the opportunity to watch the team practice and see the field for the first time. There will be no charge for admission.

VETERANS BRING STABILITY

Heading into his 16th season of Arena Football experience, Offensive/Defensive line coach, FLINT FLEMING, likes the progress of the line and the fullback/linebackers on the Blaze squad.

"Veterans like JERMAINE YOUNGER and KEVIN CLEMENS really show their value during training camp," the three-time ArenaBowl champion said. "They set the tone and lead by example on-and-off the field. It is great to have them around - especially since they both can still ‘bring it' between the lines."

Fleming also said that veteran OL/DL HANS OLSEN has stood out during camp.

"(Hans) is very energetic and is first in every drill," Fleming said of the Brigham Young alum. "He has really shouldered a lot of responsibility early. It's not easy to take a leadership role, especially in your own backyard."

LOOKING AHEAD TO DAY 6

The Blaze will be at the Delta Center for both sessions on Thursday. The first session will be from 10 a.m. until noon, while the second session will be from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. The second session is Fanfest and will be open to the public.



Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from January 12, 2006


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.

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