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FB/LB Terrence ROyal Returns as the Team Adds Size and Depth

October 20, 2011 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Tampa Bay Storm News Release


TAMPA BAY - Tampa Bay Storm defensive lineman Terrence Royal will return to the Storm for the 2012 and will be joined by defensive back Lendy Holmes, defensive lineman Pernell Phillips, center Wondell Rutledge and offensive lineman Julius Wilson, announced head coach Dave Ewart.

"We want to be the most physical team in the League," said Ewart. "I think we are getting there with the addition of Terrence, Lendy, Pernell, Wondell and Julius. Not only are we getting physical, we also got bigger."

Royal (6-foot-3, 291 lbs., South Florida) returns to the Storm for his fourth season. A punishing fullback, Royal consistently made huge blocks this past season after successfully making the conversion from linebacker following his rookie season. His versatility is a key component as he adds depth to the defensive front four as well. During the 2011 season he saw action at five different positions: mack linebacker, jack linebacker, nose guard, and defensive end while starting 13 games at fullback.

"I love playing football and am excited to be back," said the former Wharton H.S. (Tampa, FL) and USF standout. "We are putting together a nice roster and I can't wait to get to the playoffs."

Holmes (6-1, 215 lbs., Oklahoma) last played with the Sacramento Lions of the United Football League. Prior to that he spent two seasons with the Washington Redskins (2000-2010) and appeared in eight games. Holmes originally went to Oklahoma as a wide receiver but was converted to cornerback prior to his sophomore season. In 51 career games with the Sooners he recorded 205 tackles, nine interceptions - returning one for a touchdown and a sack. He also had four kick returns for 66 yards and added two receptions for 19 yards.

Phillips (6-1, 290, Central State (OH)) began his professional career in 2009 with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2009. After his release he played in the UFL with the California Redwoods and then went on to play with the Cincinnati Commandos in 2011. He led the Commandos to the Ultimate Indoor Football League Championship we he led the League with 26 tacles for a loss, was second with in the League with 12 sacks, fourth in the league with 48 tackles and added seven blocked kicks.

Rutledge, (6-2, 325, Toledo) who was born in Germany and did not come to America until the sixth grade, spent the past two seasons playing in the Indoor Football League.

Wilson (6-5, 310, Alabama-Birmingham) spent the past two seasons (2010-11) in the AFL playing with South Division rival Orlando Predators. A local product out of Bradenton Southeast H.S., he began his professional career with Miami Dolphins in 2007. He then went on to play with the St. Louis Rams and Tampa Bay Buccaneers until his release in 2009. From there he played two seasons in the UFL with Florida Tuskers (2009) and Omaha Nighthawks (2010). While at UAB he earned All-Conference USA honors his junior and senior seasons.

The Five-Time World Champion Tampa Bay Storm enters its 25th season in the AFL. The 2012 Season kicks off in March. Fans and sponsors can go to www.tampabaystorm.com or call 813.276.7300 to get the latest news or updates. Additionally fans and sponsors can follow the Storm on Facebook (Tampa Bay Storm) or Twitter (@tampabaystorm) for up to date news and exclusive content.

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