Former Rush QB Finds New Home for 2009
January 10, 2009 - Continental Indoor Football League (CIFL)
Chicago Slaughter News Release
The Chicago Slaughter Professional Football Team and member of the Continental Indoor Football League, announced today that they have signed former Chicago Rush Quarterback, Russ Michna, to a contractual agreement for the 2009 season. Michna, a standout player who played at Western Illinois University from 2000-2003, compiled a record of 20-6, throwing for a total of 6,434 yards which ranks second in Western Illinois history. Michna also set a school record in 2003 in passing yards (3,160) and total offense (3,327). He was named Gateway Player of the Year, First team All-Gateway Conference and Co-SIDA Academic All-District Team in 2002 and 2003. He was also the only player to win back-to-back Offensive Player of the Year awards.
Michna was the Quarterback for the Chicago Rush (Arena Football League) in 2008 after assuming the starting position from starter, Sherdrick Bonner, who suffered an injury in week seven. Michna took advantage of his opportunity. In the 11 weeks he started, he led the Rush by tossing 57 touchdown passes with only 7 picks and compiled an 8-3 record as a starter. He also threw for 2,721 yards with a Quarterback Rating of 122.9, which placed him fourth in the AFL. In addition, he helped his team by rushing for 98 yards and scoring 14 touchdowns on the ground. In all, Michna was responsible for 71 touchdowns and 2,819 yards.
Prior to joining the Chicago Rush, Michna spent a season with the 2004 St. Louis Rams as well as, 2 seasons with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the CFL in 2005 and 2006. A graduate of Conant High School in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, he was a letterman in football, basketball and baseball. As part of the football team, he was an All-State selection in his senior year in 1999.
"We are extremely honored with having a person of Russ' caliber and athletic accomplishments join the Chicago Slaughter" said Slaughter General Manager, Alan Perkins. "In addition to his positive attitude and on-field leadership abilities, we also are looking forward to Russ' contributions off the field and him working with the local communities" he added.
" I feel fortunate to have found a new home and to continue to play in my hometown" said Michna. "I am certainly looking forward to my new role with the Chicago Slaughter and working with Coach McMichael and the other NFL Legends Coaches as well. I hope to help bring a championship home to Chicago this season" he added.
Michna is a life long Chicago-land resident and resides in the area during the off-season. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Finance and an MBA from Western Illinois University as well. In addition to his on-field leadership role, Michna will also work with the Chicago Slaughter in a number of Community Relations campaigns and will help in heading up the new Chicago Slaughter Reading Program with the Score Learning Centers in local area schools and libraries.
On January 17th from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, the Chicago Slaughter will be hosting their second and final Free Agent Tryout Camp at the Finish Strong Sports Complex located at 551 W. Roosevelt Road in West Chicago. This camp is open to any football player with little or extensive experience and provides an opportunity to become a professional football player. Several of the NFL Coaching Legends will be on hand to evaluate the participants including former Chicago Bears Star Wide Receiver, Marcus Robinson, former Chicago Bears Line Backer, Mickey Pruitt and other Slaughter coaches. Russ Michna will also be on hand to meet and greet fans and sign autographs. For tryout information and to register, please call the Chicago Slaughter office at 847-310-3190 or register online at chicagoslaughter.com.
The 2009 season opens at the Sears Centre Arena and individual, season and group tickets are now on sale. The Slaughter are also offering all groups a special discount for the March 6th game on selected seats. Information on the Slaughters' One Cent Advertising promotional opportunities in our 50,000 Game Day Programs is now available. For more information, please contact Gerry Clarke the Slaughter at 847-310-3190 or visit our website at chicagoslaughter.com.
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