Day 6: Philadelphia Soul Linebacking Core Taking Shape
Published on March 1, 2012 under Arena Football League (AFL)
Philadelphia Soul News Release
PHILADELPHIA (March 1, 2012) - Entering Day 6 of training camp, the Soul's group of linebackers have stolen the show. The combination of Dusty Bear, Joe Goosby, Jerome Hayes, and Brandon Perkins has been a force so far in camp.
The players returned to the practice field today as the coaches continue to install the playbook for 2012. The Soul look to make the most of their next two practices before an intrasquad scrimmage on Saturday morning.
PLAYER SPOTLIGHT: WR EMERY SAMMONS (6'2, 195, Norfolk State): Hometown: Philadelphia, PA . Played for the Spokane Shock (2010-2011), tallying 17 receptions, 234 yards, and one touchdown during the Shock's ArenaBowl XXIII Championship season in 2010 . Had a break out second season with the Shock, recording 68 receptions, 739 yards, and 10 touchdowns in 15 games in 2011
QUOTE OF THE DAY: "We're getting good pressure on the quarterback. It seems to be increasing each day, especially on the interior. Our center of the defense is really progressing well," Soul head coach Doug Plank said. "In talking with other coaches, they're impressed with the progress of the linebacking core, but there's always room to improve. I think we've got great athletes that will perform well and that's really all you can ask for."
THIS DAY IN HISTORY: The Soul defeated the Orlando Predators 77-56 in their season opener on March 1, 2008 in Philadelphia. Quarterback Tony Graziani completed 15-of-22 passes for 257 yards and nine touchdowns - including three to Larry Brackins. Brackins finished the game with six catches for 133 yards. Chris Jackson hauled in six receptions for 78 yards and four scores on the night.
The win broke a two-game losing streak for the Soul and gave Philadelphia a 3-1 series lead at that point in time, with every victory going to the home team. Both teams would make the playoffs that year, Philadelphia at 13-3 and Orlando finishing with a 9-7 record.
QUICK HITS: The Soul wish LB Brandon Perkins (6'0, 240, Kansas) a happy birthday! Born on this date in 1984, Perkins celebrates his 28th birthday. Soul kicker Phil Marfuggi comes off the Refuse to Report list today. Tomorrow's practice will start at 10 a.m. rather than 8:30 a.m. and conclude at the usual time of 12:30 p.m.
Arena Football League Stories from March 1, 2012
- Camp Notes Day 13 - Tampa Bay Storm
- Day 6: Philadelphia Soul Linebacking Core Taking Shape - Philadelphia Soul
- Preseason Scrimmage Kicks off Saturday Afternoon - Jacksonville Sharks
- Orlando Predators Will be Holding 2nd Annual "Faith & Family Night" - Orlando Predators
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.
