Former Pioneer Inks With NFL

June 15, 2005 - arenafootball2 (af2)
Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Pioneers News Release


Wilkes-Barre, PA- The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Pioneers are pleased to announce that former Pioneers' Kicker, Jimmy Kibble, has signed a contract with the NFL's Philadelphia Eagles on June 15th for the team's upcoming 2005-2006 season.

"This business is difficult and it depends on getting a break and being given an opportunity," said Jimmy Kibble. "Several years ago Coach Terry Karg and the Pioneers gave me that break...and the fans supported me. I will never forget that. Recently, NFL Europe Coordinator Mike Chan gave me an opportunity and I was able to play in NFL Europe, another great opportunity. And now, (Special Teams Coach) John Harbaugh and the Eagles organization have given me another opportunity and I thank them for that." Kibble continues to say, "I am looking forward to learning as much as I can from David Ackers...to make me a better kicker."

"Obviously, I am extremely happy for Jimmy," said Pioneers' Offensive Coordinator Terry Karg, who coached Kibble during the Pioneers' inaugural season. "Jimmy really persevered to gain this opportunity. I know he's worked hard in the past and through that hard work he has created this great opportunity for him and his family."

Kibble spent this past season with the Cologne Centurions of NFLE (NFL Europe). The Centurions were 6-4 this past season. Kibble finished his season with 15-17 PAT, 15-22 FG (3 blocked) with a longest of 48 yards, and a total of 57 points.

Prior to his time in NFLE, Kibble kicked in both Arena Football leagues. In 2003, Kibble signed with the AFL's New York Dragons. He played in the inaugural nationally televised game in Dallas, TX. Later in 2003, Kibble rejoined the Pioneers for their campaign. Kibble was 21-22 for PAT that season.

He started his career with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Pioneers in 2002. Kibble was ranked in the top 10 of af2 kickers with 13 of 42 Field Goals with a longest of 55 yards and ranked in the top three for PAT % with 85%. Through his career in af2, Kibble maintained an 87.25% PAT which ranks him first for all af2 kickers in Career PAT Percentage.

Kibble played collegiate football for the Virginia Tech Hokies from 1996-1999, where he excelled as one of the nations top punters. In 1997, he led the BIG EAST in punting with a school record 45.1-yard per average, as well as earned first team BIG EAST ECAC (East Coast Athletic Conference) and Division I All-State honors. He was selected First Team Big East for three years and was signed by the New England Patriots in 2000, but was hurt in preseason. You can check out an up to date biography and statistics on Kibble at www.jimmykibble.com.



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