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Coach's Corner with the Baltimore Mariners Chris Simpson: Week 6

March 19, 2010 - American Indoor Football Association (AIFA)
Baltimore Mariners News Release


BALTIMORE, MD (March 19, 2010) - Playing your first game at home is a great experience. The crowd is fired up. The players are fired up. The coaches and staff wish they could put pads on just one more time. I loved the fireworks blasting away during the introductions. The fans got to see their new cheerleaders in action. It was just an exciting atmosphere at 1st Mariner Arena last Sunday. And by the way, we won the game.

It was a solid performance by both the offense and the defense. I am always pleased when we, as a team, can improve over our previous week's performance. That is the key to becoming a championship caliber team, continually improving each week.

The defense made some huge strides going forward for the season. They are known for their ability to force turnovers and Sunday's game showed what has become a trademark for this unit. They were much more cohesive. I am a defensive guy and it is important for the defense to set the tone with its aggressive play. Even in the Indoor game, a solid defense wins you championships.

Offensively, we continued where we left off from the previous game. The offensive line has been the foundation for our success. These unsung players have allowed our quarterback, running back and receivers the time to put the ball in the end zone. Our offense has the attitude that they will score every chance they get the ball and, with a kicking game like ours, points will come. It's nice to get points from all three phases of the game like we did against New Jersey.

While pleased with the victory, there are still several areas that need to be improved on. We played some pretty good football last Sunday, but, we know we can do much better. Domination only comes when you minimize your mistakes. Our philosophy is not to practice until we get it right, it's to practice until we don't get it wrong. General Patton once said, "I don't fear failure. I only fear the slowing up of the engine inside of me which is saying, 'Keep going, someone must be on top, why not you?' "

That is the attitude and drive we will take all season. The New Jersey game is done and time to move on to our next game at 1st Mariner Arena against Fayetteville on March 21. The Guard comes to Baltimore as one of the more successful teams in Indoor football. Their history includes a national championship in the NIFL in 2007. Each year the organization puts together a playoff caliber team. While Fayetteville has a new head coach and a new roster, we expect nothing less than a competitive team.

Like my great defensive coordinator Steve Gaunt has stated, "Ready, or not, we still have a game on Sunday". Goal is to always improve week to week. We'll be ready. See you on Sunday Mariners Nation.



American Indoor Football Association Stories from March 19, 2010


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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