Destroyers To Hold Open Tryouts At Norfolk State University
April 15, 2011 - United Football League (UFL 1)
Virginia Destroyers News Release
Virginia Beach, Virginia (April 13, 2011) - The Virginia Destroyers of the United Football League will conduct the team's first open players tryout under Head Coach / GM Marty Schottenheimer on Saturday, April 30, at Norfolk State University.
Coach Schottenheimer and his staff will put players through drills at Dick Price Stadium, located at 700 Park Avenue, Norfolk, Virginia.
Local football fans are welcome to attend the tryouts to see if they can spot which hopefuls have what it takes to put on a Destroyers jersey for the team's inaugural season.
"This is the first look at some of the potential players on our squad for many of our fans" said senior vice president Brian Melekian. "Between providing food, entertainment, and a chance to hear from Coach Schottenheimer, we are making it a first class day".
"I am excited to evaluate the players who attend and I know there is a wealth of talent here in the 757 area," said Coach Schottenheimer. "This is a genuine opportunity for athletes who stand out to make our roster and make an impact here in Virginia during the Destroyers' first season."
Four players who excelled during the 2010 season and were included on the Virginia Destroyers protected players list for the new 2011 season, emerged from similar tryouts with the Florida Tuskers last year.
Wide receiver Calvin Russell tied for the UFL lead in touchdown catches with three and finished fourth in the league in receiving yards. Guard Adrien Clarke started the first six games of the season, cornerback Corey Small saw playing time in two regular-season games and the 2010 UFL Championship Game, and Torrin Tucker played at left tackle throughout the season.
For those who truly possess the qualities UFL head coaches are looking for in 'walk on' players, the path to making a UFL roster was laid out by the likes of Las Vegas Locos quarterback Chase Clement. The former Rice passer progressed from Las Vegas tryouts in 2010 to lead the Locos to the UFL championship Game, claiming the game's MVP award in the process.
Player registration is from 7:00 am until 9:00 am on April 30. There is no pre-registration and players must pay $60 cash to participate. No checks or credit cards will be accepted. Players must bring completed waiver and bio sheets, which can be found on the UFL website: [4]www.ufl-football.com.
Dick Price Stadium is a grass field, so players must bring appropriate cleats. Coach Schottenheimer will give an opening address at 9:00 am. During the open tryout, players will participate in the following drills:
- 9:05 A.M. 40 yard dash / Short Shuttle
- 11:00 A.M.-1:00 P.M. Position Drills
If players have film, they should bring it with them and drop it off at registration. Coach Schottenheimer will address the group again to close the tryout around 1:00 pm. "I'm also looking forward to a huge Destroyers fans turnout, said Coach Schottenheimer. They are some of the most supportive fans I've ever seen."
Players are responsible for all travel and lodging expenses. If coming from out of town, the Virginia Destroyers have arranged a special rate at the Holiday Inn, Virginia Beach. Players should ask for the Virginia Destroyers $69 room rate when booking. The hotel is located at: 5655 Greenwich Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23452. (757) 499-4400
Log onto www.ufl-football.com/tryouts/destroyers for additional information on the open tryout.
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United Football League Stories from April 15, 2011
- Destroyers To Hold Open Tryouts At Norfolk State University - Virginia Destroyers
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