Erie Explosion Standout Zach Williams Signs with Cleveland Gladiators

Published on October 27, 2012 under Continental Indoor Football League (CIFL)
Erie Explosion News Release


Erie, PA- The Erie Explosion have announced that defensive lineman Zach Williams has signed a contract with the Cleveland Gladiators of the Arena Football League for the 2013 season. Williams (6'3, 280) a local product of Erie Cathedral Prep, enjoyed a standout campaign for the Explosion in his professional football debut. Williams earned honorable mention all-league honors with 26 total tackles, 12 tackles for a loss, and 10 sacks during the 2012 UIFL season. Williams reflected on his time spent with the Erie Explosion, "Being a part of the Erie Explosion was a great experience, the organization is extremely professional from top to bottom. Coach Liotta helped me achieve my goal of advancing my professional career. He promised me an opportunity to advance my career and worked hard to get my name out there. I am thankful for the opportunity to have been a member of the Erie Explosion and for the opportunity to play for the Cleveland Gladiators." Williams played at Kent State from 2008-2010 and also spent time at Citrus Junior College. Williams was a second team All-State Selection at Erie Cathedral Prep while leading his team to a 10-2 record. A dominating defensive end at Prep, Williams finished with 75 total tackles, 10 sacks, and 20 tackles for a loss his senior year while earning 1st team All-Region Honors. Williams finished the 2012 campaign with the Cleveland Gladiators following the Explosions loss in the Divisional Championship Game. "When we first saw Zach at a Pittsburgh Power tryout I knew he had the ability to play in the Arena Football League. He did a great job for us in 2012 and I am very happy that he was able to get the necessary film and experience to advance his career to the next level. Zach has earned everything that he has received and I am certain that he will make the Erie Explosion proud at the next level. What makes it even better is that he is a local Erie product and will have an opportunity to play so close to home in Cleveland," commented Erie head coach Shawn Liotta.

Williams signing with the Gladiators marks the 12th former Erie player to have signed an AFL or CFL contract over the past two seasons. For information on the Erie Explosion visit www.erieexplosion.com for upcoming events and the latest news as the franchise prepares for the 2013 season.

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