Castillejos Wins Rush National Anthem Contest
Published on January 24, 2006 under Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Chicago Rush News Release
January 24, 2006 - Ryan Castillejos has been voted the winner of the 2006 Chicago Rush National Anthem contest and will sing the Star Spangled Banner prior to the team's home opener Friday, February 3, the Rush announced today.
"I am truly excited and want to thank the Rush organization for giving me this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," said Castillejos. "It is definitely an honor. Hopefully, I'll do my best to make all those who voted for me proud."
Castillejos was one of three finalists selected from 47 contestants when the contest was held January 10. Each finalist had his/her version of the Anthem placed on the Chicago Rush Web site, www.chicagorush.com, and fans had the opportunity to listen and vote for their favorite.
Nearly 40,000 votes were cast in the nine days of voting, with Castillejos garnering 18,018 votes to edge Alvy Rodriguez by just 12 votes (18,006). Tony Gordon finished in third place.
Castillejos, 33, is from Plainfield, Ill., and works as a network engineer. While he has no professional singing background, he did win first place last year in a contest sponsored by the "Showtime at the Apollo Tour." His victory earned him the opportunity to fly to New York to compete in a singing competition at the Apollo Theater.
The Rush and the AFL will celebrate 20 seasons of fan-friendly football when Chicago opens the 2006 season at 2 p.m. Sunday, January 29, in Denver against John Elway's defending-champion Colorado Crush. The Rush home opener is set for 7:30 p.m. Friday, February 3, against the New York Dragons. Fans interested in purchasing season or group tickets for 2006 can call the Rush at (877) RUSH-TIX or visit the team's Web site, www.chicagorush.com.
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