Edge Display "Great Attitude" in Preparation for Next Week's Opener
Published on February 27, 2014 under Champions Professional Indoor Football League (CPIFL)
Bloomington Edge News Release
High hopes and pursuit of a championship are fueling training camp for the Bloomington Edge as they prepare to open the Champions Professional Indoor Football League season in one week.
John Johnson moves into the head coaching role after several years as an assistant in Bloomington indoor football, retaining all of the assistant coaches from last season. "The league is good and there's a lot of competition among players," said Johnson. "Having the whole coaching staff back helps with a lot of the details and I think that's why a lot of the (players) came back."
Charles Dowdell moves into the projected starting quarterback role, returning to Bloomington this season after filling a multi-purpose role as quarterback and receiver two seasons ago, and Andre Raymond returns to the Edge after breaking the Bloomington single-season rushing record in each of the last two campaigns which fuels Johnson's optimism about the offense. "I think our receivers are very talented with tall guys, short guys and a lot of speed with plenty of moxie and good route runners," said Johnson.
The coach expects a more physical defense, including a beefed-up line and the return of last year's leading tackler Ross Cochran. "We'll be a little more of a pop-you-at-the-line group this year, and we'll hurt people--legally, of course," laughed Johnson.
Johnson also looks at a special teams unit that was strong last season. "I've talked to all of the guys about how we're here to develop them and move them up, and one of the niches is to be on special teams," explained Johnson. "We are emphasizing that a someone on special teams is not just there for one more play, but for one more opportunity, which is quite a different way to look at it."
"I'm very excited and the kids make me feel young," said Johnson about camp. "It's everything I've thought it would be and more. We start with a tough schedule with the first two games on the road, but I've been very pleased with the team's attitude and they're doing everything we ask them to do."
The Edge open the season next Friday, March 7 in Kansas against the Salina Bombers, followed by a trip the following Friday to Nebraska and the Lincoln Haymakers before a bye week. The home opener is Saturday, March 29 at 7:05 p.m. against the Omaha Beef at U.S. Cellular Coliseum.
Season tickets and group discounts are available by calling 309-434-2980. All 12 Edge regular season games and any playoff action will again be heard on WJBC.com. Edge fans may now view the games via subscription through America One. Links to the online broadcasts are at www.bloomingtonedge.com. The latest information can also be found on the Bloomington Edge Facebook page and Twitter feed.
Champions Professional Indoor Football League Stories from February 27, 2014
- Beef Promote Dan Thurin To Head Coach Spot - Omaha Beef
- Edge Display "Great Attitude" in Preparation for Next Week's Opener - Bloomington Edge
- CPIFL Season Kicks-Off on Friday - CPIFL
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