Gilliam, Olsen, Bugg Return to Spokane
Published on December 19, 2008 under arenafootball2 (af2)
Spokane Shock News Release
December 19, 2008 - Spokane, WA: The Spokane Shock announced today that DB Sergio Gilliam, WR Andy Olson and WR Patrick Bugg will return to Spokane for the 2009 season. In an additional roster move, the Shock have traded OL/DL Aryan Barto and DL Jacob Owens to the Manchester Wolves for free agent claim order, moving from the 25th spot to the 15th spot.
Gilliam was named the af2 Rookie of the Year after setting a new af2 single season record for interceptions in a season (16) and collected 50.5 tackles with 25 pass break-ups. During the post-season, Gilliam added four interceptions, five pass break-ups and 9.5 tackles. Gilliam was also named 1st Team all-af2.
"Sergio is the ultimate play-maker; his long body makes him a weapon in the secondary," Head Coach Adam Shackleford explained. "It's important for him to come back stay on the field and prepare himself for the 2010 season in the AFL."
Olson put together an outstanding rookie campaign last year, setting a franchise record for receptions by a rookie (112), leading the team in that category. Olson also collected 20 TD's (2nd on the team) and 1077 receiving yards.
"Andy is another one of those guys who we expected to move up this year - he has that kind of talent. But since the AFL isn't an option this season, he knows that Spokane is the best place for him to take his game to the next level," Shackleford said.
Bugg played in 13 regular-season games last season and came away with 34 receptions - including 15 touchdowns - for 475 yards. During the post-season, Bugg collected an additional 10 receptions - including four touchdowns - for 150 yards.
"There was a stretch towards the end of the season where Bugg was our best receiver," Shackelford said. "He runs great routes, he has great hands and he is able to use his big body to get himself open."
arenafootball2 Stories from December 19, 2008
- Gilliam, Olsen, Bugg Return to Spokane - Spokane Shock
- af2 10th anniversary logo design contest winner announced - af2
- Lightning, City of Newark Hosting af2 Tryout Camp - Stockton Lightning
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.
