Defenders Defensive Back Madu Signs with the Ottawa RedBlacks
April 11, 2014 - Champions Professional Indoor Football League (CPIFL)
Oklahoma Defenders News Release
Tulsa, OK - The Oklahoma Defenders are excited to announce that defensive back Chika Madu has signed with the Ottawa RedBlacks of the Canadian Football League.
"I'm excited for the opportunity with the RedBlacks," says Madu. "I want to Thank the Oklahoma Defenders for letting me come in and be a part of the team. When you're a free agent, a lot of times, it's a struggle to get a look. Playing for OKD opened up my passion for football. I got to be around guys like Ronnell Lewis and Sam Proctor. Playing with those guys, you want to be at your highest level. It taught me to focus, no matter what the situation was. Being around Defenders football, opens up a whole other mindset. It really brought my passion back to the game."
Madu participated in the RedBlacks three day pre-season mini-camp on April 8th to April 10th. Players receiving invites traveled to Richmond, Virginia to the Bon Secours Washington Redskins Training Center. They participate in drills and worked out under the supervision of RedBlacks' Head Coach Rick Campbell
Derek Rasmussen, Oklahoma Defenders Head Coach stated, "Having Chika around really made the other guys step up. His footwork, quickness, and technique were outstanding. He's a great ball player and I couldn't be more excited for him and his family. You never want to lose guys, but he's moving up to a greater platform to showcase his abilities, which is ultimately what we're here to do."
Even though Madu only suited up for two games for the Defenders, his leadership and effort both on and off the field made an impact.
"First off, I would like to say how happy and excited we are for Chika," expressed Gary Joice, Oklahoma Defenders Defensive Coordinator. "He is a good guy and even better player. From the first day he arrived, he was a great addition to our organization. His abilities and work ethic speak for itself. He brought an extra level of energy and enthusiasm to our defense. He will be missed, no question about that, but what a great step for him in his career."
"I've always wanted to play football, but I also have a family. You got to pay your bills, and the Defenders let me put my foot down and say I'm going to make it. I played arena ball last year, but this year was different. There's a camaraderie there. I was blessed to have OKD as a stepping stone."
Even though the Ottawa RedBlacks season doesn't start until July 3rd, Madu already has some plans.
"I want to be the defensive player of the year, and ultimately get back to the NFL. I'll just do what I do and play football."
You can come celebrate Chika Madu's signing Saturday Night, as well as Community Night, at the Cox Business Center, as the Defenders host the Bloomington Edge.
All kids tickets 12 & Under are just $5!
Every fan attending Community Night receives an exclusive Oklahoma Defenders autograph poster!
The Defenders tailgate starts at 3pm (Baxter's Parking Lot), doors open at 6pm, on field pre-game show starts at 6:30pm, and kickoff at 7:05pm.
Great seats are still available. Visit www.ticketmaster.com or call 1-866-7-BOK-CTR!
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