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CFL Hamilton Tiger-Cats

'Cats bag Belli

February 23, 2004 - Canadian Football League (CFL)
Hamilton Tiger-Cats News Release


The spirited bidding battle for free-agent defensive tackle ADRIANO BELLI is over! The Hamilton Tiger-Cats have signed the much sought-after Belli to a two year plus an option contract!

The free-spirited 6-foot-5, 289 pound Belli, who played the past two and a half seasons with the Montreal Alouettes, was pursued by almost every CFL team. Belli says his decision to sign with Hamilton was, in large part, dictated by business. "This was a complete family decision and things got a little emotional. We run a family-owned meat processing plant in Mississauga and my parents are getting older." But the likeable Belli is quick to point out, "there was no pressure and my hand wasn't forced, but family comes first." Belli also says he can't wait to play his first game in Hamilton. "Tiger-Cat fans are crazy and the atmosphere at Ivor Wynne Stadium is fantastic!"

The Hamilton Tiger-Cats are thrilled that Belli will be in a black and gold uniform for the next three seasons. For Head Coach Greg Marshall, it's a huge signing. "This is a signing that makes a statement to everyone in the League that we are serious about putting a contender on the field not only for this season but for many seasons to come. We're putting together a defence that will be outstanding." Marshall goes on to describe the 26 year old, Toronto-born Belli as a real character guy. "Adriano plays with a lot of heart and passion and enthusiasm. He loves to play football and he's going to make it fun to coach!"

ADRIANO BELLI-PROFILE

Defensive Tackle
Non-Import
6'5" 289 lbs.
University of Houston
Born: August 25, 1977
4th year CFL

CFL experience: 2003: Missed a good portion of the Montreal Alouettes season with concussion-related symptoms. Still registered 9 defensive tackles, made 2 tackles for losses of 6 yards and had one forced fumble recovery.

2002: Played as a back-up on the defensive line to Ed Philion and Robert Brown. Participated in all 18 games with Montreal during the regular season. Registered 4 quarterback sacks and 20 defensive tackles. Won a Grey Cup ring with Montreal that season.

2001: Attended the NFL New York Giants training camp. After being cut, was signed by the B.C. Lions. The Alouettes then acquired Belli in a trade with the Lions for Angus Reid in week # 14. He played in Montreal's last four games of the season and the playoff game in Hamilton.

2000: Belli was in the NFL Atlanta Falcons training camp.

University: Played for the University of Houston. In his senior year, Belli made 23 defensive tackles in 11 games

Personal: Lives in Mississauga. Family owns a meat-processing plant. On the football field, has earned the nickname "The Sniper Kisser" after kissing several Montreal teammates as well as Alouettes Head Coach Don Matthews, in the middle of a game in the 2002 season!

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The 2004 Hamilton Tiger-Cat season tickets are now on sale! To order by phone, call the Tiger-Cat ticket office at 905-547-CATS! (905-547-2287) or visit our web site at www.ticats.ca

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Canadian Football League Stories from February 23, 2004


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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