Firecats Morant signs with AFL's Kansas City Brigade
Published on January 10, 2006 under arenafootball2 (af2)
Florida Firecats News Release
ESTERO, FL - FB/LB Chris Morant who played with the Firecats from 2004-2005 signed with the Kansas City Brigade this week.
Morant made quick work of his opportunity to impress the coaches during a scrimmage against the Grand Rapids Rampage on Monday January 9th knocking down 2 consecutive passes and while applying pressure rushing from the end.
Morant played at James Madison University where he earned Atlantic 10 Defensive Player of the Year honors his senior year. The All-American was also a finalist for Division II Player of the Year. Before joing the Firecats Morant had pro stops in the CFL with the Edmonton Elkots, a sprevious stint in the AFL with the New York Dragons and played with the Norfolk Nighthawks in the af2.
"Coach Porter asked me if I kept in shape over the summer and invited me in to give me a shot" said Chris of his chance to play in the AFL, "I just kept working hard and kept the faith that I'd get my chance to shine." The Brigade open their season on the road January 29th against the Dallas Desparados. "I know given the opportunity, I can be an impact player in this league."
In 2004 Morant was part of a backfield that led the af2 in rushing while earning American Conference 2nd team honors behind teammate and fellow FB/LB Steve Gorrie, while known for his tenacious defensive play it was his rushing TD in the Arena Cup that gave Florida it's first ever championship. In 2005 Morant was referred to as the "best two-way player in the league" by a number of af2 coaches.
Firecats lineman Keith Drayton who was also part of the 2004 Arena Cup Champion team is in Kansas City too this week too trying to make the team. The former Georgia Bulldog was said to have impressed the coaches as well making some quick plays at the Nose Tackle position. Drayton spent part of last season with the Las Vegas Gladiators before rejoining the 'Cats midway through the season.
The Firecats will hold their next open tryout on Saturday January 21st at Estero High School At Estero High School Field - 21900 River Ranch Rd, Estero, FL 33928 at 10:00 a.m. Registration begins at 10 AM and workouts start at 11 AM. A $75.00 (Cash only) registration fee is due the day of the tryout. The tryout is open for all positions and will be conducted outdoors on natural grass. Players will be required to perform in a Prostyle Combine workout. All participants are required to bring their own shoes (outdoor cleats preferably) and other proper athletic workout attire. The For more information, contact the Firecats office at 239-390-2287 Pre registering is strongly recommended. At the Firecats 1st open tryout the team signed University of Florida Safety Zephrin Augustine and Florida Atlantic DB Derek Zak from among the 50 or so players who attended the event.
The Firecats open the season on the road against the defending Cup Champion Memphis Xplorers April 8th. 2006 season tickets are on sale now! Call (239) 390-2287 today to reserve your seats!
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