Dicken, Douglass to Remain in Rush Blue
May 14, 2002 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Chicago Rush News Release
May 14, 2002 - Offensive specialist Joe Douglass and quarterback Billy Dicken, the cornerstones of the Chicago Rush offense, have agreed to contract extensions that will keep them wearing Rush uniforms through the 2003 and 2004 seasons respectively, the Rush announced today.
"This is another sign that we are taking positive steps to build for the future and give stability to the organization," said Rush head coach Mike Hohensee. "Both guys are quality football players and quality individuals. Billy is coming off two great games in a row and is developing into the quarterback we hoped he would. Joe should be able to rehab from his surgery and we look forward to his return to the lineup next year."
Douglass, who will miss the rest of the season after undergoing surgery May 5 to repair a ruptured colon, chose to extend his contract for the 2003 season rather than test the free agent market this fall. He was the team's leading receiver during the 2001 season, catching 99 passes for 1,287 yards and 26 touchdowns. He also led the team in return yards, returning 52 kicks for 990 yards and three touchdowns. At the time of his injury, Douglass was well his way to another banner season, leading the Rush with 17 catches for 140 yards and leading the AFL in all-purpose yards with 473.
Dicken, who earned the starting QB job in Week 4 of the 2001 season, agreed with the team on a two-year contract extension through 2004. Last year, he guided the Rush to the playoffs completing 219 of 358 passes for 2,668 yards and 56 touchdowns. This season, Dicken has completed 80 of 120 attempts for 1,024 yards and 22 touchdowns and ranks among the league leaders in Passer Rating, Passing Yards and Total Offense.
"We are committed to keeping our star players in Chicago," said Rush senior vice president/general manager Mike Polisky. "We want our fans to be able to get to know our players as our organization grows. The signing of Joe and Billy, combined with last season's contracts with Dameon Porter and James Baron, will keep a good nucleus together for the future."
The Rush returns home Saturday, May 18, to play host to the Georgia Force. Fans wishing to purchase individual game tickets to the May 18 game or any of the other Rush home games may order by calling Ticketmaster at (312) 559-1212 or by visiting the Ticketmaster Web site at www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets also may be purchased in person at any Ticketmaster outlet or the Allstate Arena box office.
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