Clay Rush Signs with New York Jets
June 4, 2003 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Albany/Indiana Firebirds News Release
INDIANAPOLIS - One week after being named the 2003 Arena Football League Kicker of the Year, Indiana Firebirds' kicker Clay Rush has signed a one-year contract with the New York Jets of the National Football League.
Rush (6-3, 220, Missouri Western), playing in his first season with the Firebirds, tallied an AFL-best 154 points while connecting on 24-of-46 (52.2 percent) field goal attempts. Rush converted 82-of-96 (85.4 percent) extra-point attempts and his consistently deep kickoffs led to the Firebirds allowing an 18.4 kickoff-return average (No. 3 in AFL) and 30 touchbacks. Last month, Rush was also named to the 2003 All-Arena First Team.
"It is well deserved for Clay to get a shot in the NFL," said Firebirds General Manager Joe Hennessy. "Clay did a tremendous job with the Firebirds this season as he was selected Kicker of the Year, we wish him well with the Jets."
A five-year AFL veteran, Rush earned Kicker of the Year honors with the Iowa Barnstormers in 2000. Rush has attended training camp with the Detroit Lions (1998), Atlanta Falcons (1999) and Washington Redskins (2000).
The Firebirds will place Rush on their exempt list and retain his rights through the 2004 season.
The Arena Football League playoffs continue this weekend on NBC Sports. The Orlando Predators visit the Tampa Bay Storm this Saturday, May 7th at 2 pm while the Arizona Rattlers take on the San Jose SaberCats on Sunday, May 8th at 4:30 pm.
Firebirds' season tickets for the 2004 season are on sale now and can be purchased by calling a Firebirds' ticket representative at 317.472.8080. Firebirds merchandise is also available at Home Court Gift Shop. For merchandise information, please call 317.917.2755.
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