Firebirds Name Steve DeBerg as New Head Coach
August 6, 2003 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Albany/Indiana Firebirds News Release
INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Firebirds of the Arena Football League introduced Steve DeBerg as the fourth head coach in team history during a press conference today at Conseco Fieldhouse. DeBerg joins the Firebirds after playing eighteen seasons as a quarterback in the National Football League. Following his illustrious playing career, DeBerg served as the quarterback's coach for the New York Giants (1996) and Atlanta Falcons (1999).
DeBerg, 49, was a tenth-round draft choice of the Dallas Cowboys in 1977. He would later play for six different teams throughout his career including stops with the San Francisco 49ers (1977-1980), Denver Broncos (1981-1983), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1984-1987, 1992-1993), Kansas City Chiefs (1988-1991), Miami Dolphins (1993) and Atlanta Falcons (1998). During his career, DeBerg played for legendary coaches Bill Walsh, Dan Reeves, Don Shula and Marty Schottenheimer.
"Today is a new beginning in the Firebirds organization," said Firebirds general manager Joe Hennessy. "Steve brings a wealth of football knowledge and experience to the table and we are confident that he will end up being one of the best coaches in the Arena Football League. I am looking forward to the start of the 2004 season."
DeBerg compiled some of the most impressive passing statistics in NFL history. In 207 games, he completed 2874-of-5024 pass attempts (57.2%) for 34,241 yards and 196 touchdowns. He currently ranks among the NFL's all-time top 15 list in pass attempts (14th), completions (t-12th) and passing yards (15th). DeBerg is also tied for 27th all-time in passing touchdowns.
"I am extremely excited about this new opportunity," said DeBerg. "The Firebirds have been one of the most successful organizations in the Arena Football League. I look forward to assembling a coaching staff and the challenge of bringing the Firebirds back to one of the elite franchises in the Arena Football League."
Since 2001, DeBerg has run a camp for some of the top college quarterbacks in Tampa Bay, FL. His clients have included Quincy Carter (Dallas Cowboys), Byron Leftwitch (Jacksonville Jaguars) and Rex Grossman (Chicago Bears).
Firebirds' season tickets for the 2004 season are on sale now and can be purchased by calling a Firebirds' ticket representative at 317.472.8080. Firebirds merchandise is also available at Home Court Gift Shop. For merchandise information, please call 317.917.2755.
Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from August 6, 2003
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