DeMatteo signs with AFL's Dragons
October 30, 2003 - arenafootball2 (af2)
Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Pioneers News Release
Wilkes-Barre, PA - The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Pioneers are pleased to announce that offensive specialist Cosmo DeMatteo has been signed by the New York Dragons of the parent Arena Football League for the 2004 season.
"We're thrilled for Cos," said Pioneers President/GM Dave Berryman. "He's certainly earned this chance. I think he has a real shot at securing a roster spot in New York."
DeMatteo, who joined the Pioneers in April after being released by the Barcelona Dragons of NFL Europe, finished the 2003 season first in team touchdowns (24), receptions (94), receiving yards (1,010), total yards (1,163), and scoring (148).
"I'm very appreciative of the opportunity the Dragons have given me. Hopefully, I'll have a good camp and get on the opening-day roster," said DeMatteo. "I'll miss the fans in Wilkes-Barre. They're part of the reason I'm getting this chance now."
Prior to turning pro, DeMatteo was a standout receiver at Tennessee-Chattanooga. He finished his college career as the Mocs all-time receptions leader (166) and was just one of four players in the team's history to surpass the 2,000 receiving yards plateau.
DeMatteo is now the third person in Pioneers' history to join the Dragons' organization. Last year, New York signed kicker Jimmy Kibble prior to the start of the 2003 AFL season. Kibble appeared in the team's opening-day loss to the Dallas Desperados before returning to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton in April. Coach Lary Kuharich left his position with the Pioneers to become New York's assistant head coach after the Dragons fired their entire coaching staff in March.
Pioneers season ticket for 2004 are now available for sale to the general public. Anyone interested in purchasing a season ticket package may call the team's ticketing department at (570) 270-5811 or (570) 270-3848. Season tickets for 2004 are available for as little as $40.00.
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