Firebirds Re-Sign 2002 Built Ford Tough Man of the Year
January 6, 2003 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Albany/Indiana Firebirds News Release
INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Firebirds of the Arena Football League have re-signed unrestricted free agent fullback/linebacker Leroy Thompson to a one-year contract. Terms for the deal were not disclosed.
Thompson (6-2, 270) is entering his eighth season in the Arena Football League, all of which have been in a Firebirds' uniform. The 2002 Built Ford Tough Man of the Year, Thompson orchestrated the finest season of his career, rushing the ball 37 times for 118 yards resulting and ten touchdowns. Defensively, he recorded 21 tackles (19 solo), six sacks, and three pass break-ups on his way to being named to the First Team All-Arena Team.
Thompson is the Firebirds' all-time leader in rushing attempts (191) and rushing touchdowns (39) and is second in career rushing yards (608). Thompson is a fan favorite and one of the most recognizable players in franchise history.
"This is a great signing for the organization, Leroy is the preeminent player at his position in the League," said Firebirds general manager Joe Hennessy. "Night in night out, you can count on Leroy to bring his A game. He truly is a tough man, and we're glad he chose to continue his career in Indiana. You always want to sign your own free agents first, because you no what your getting, and in Leroy we know exactly what were getting, a hard nosed, competitive, durable player."
The 2003 season marks the historic debut of the AFL on NBC. The network will broadcast 71 games next season, including all playoff games and ArenaBowl XVII on June 22. The Firebirds kick off the 2003 regular season on Sunday, February 2nd on the road against the Detroit Fury which will be aired on UPN Indiana. The Birds' home opener is slated for Sunday, February, 16th versus the Chicago Rush live on NBC Sports. Firebirds' season tickets for the 2003 season are on sale now and can be purchased by calling a Firebirds' ticket representative at 317.472.8080. Firebirds merchandise is available at the Home Court Gift Shop, Home Court II in Circle Center Mall and Home Court at Indianapolis International Airport. For merchandise information, please call 317.917.2755.
Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from January 6, 2003
- Desperados Move to Reunion Arena - Dallas Desperados
- Firebirds Re-Sign 2002 Built Ford Tough Man of the Year - Albany/Indiana Firebirds
- Destroyers Single-Game Tickets On Sale Today - Buffalo Destroyers
- Rush Set to Open Training Camp - Chicago Rush
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
