Grand Rapids Adds Another Former Thunder Player
November 2, 2007 - arenafootball2 (af2)
Mahoning Valley Thunder News Release
BOARDMAN, Ohio - The Mahoning Valley Thunder is pleased to announce another former Thunder player has signed with the Arena Football League's Grand Rapids Rampage. OL Brandon "TEX" Eaton is the second former Thunder player in the first week of AFL free agency to ink a contract with Grand Rapids.
WR DeMarcus Mathes signed with the Rampage on October 30, 2007. Eaton becomes the second player in Thunder history to make the jump to the AFL.
Eaton (6-3, 310, Hawaii) appeared in 15 games (all starts) with the Thunder in 2007, seeing action at both center and tight end. In his five starts at tight end, "TEX" recorded four catches for 35 yards and one touchdown. His lone touchdown came in the season finale versus Green Bay, a 19-yard reception from QB Mike Schneider. The Houston native recorded 6.5 tackles in his rookie campaign.
THUNDER HEAD COACH MIKE HOLD
"My main goal here in Youngstown is to move our players to the next level. TEX was a huge part of our success in 2007. I have no doubt in my mind that he will help Grand Rapids no matter what position he's playing. I wish him nothing but the best. "
THUNDER ORGANIZATION STATEMENT
"TEX was a fan favorite here in the Valley, and rightfully so. He was a leader on our team and in our community. Despite losing two key players from 2007, it has been a terrific week for the Thunder. Seeing two of our players move on to the next level is rewarding and we wish TEX the best of luck in Grand Rapids."
The Rampage named former Georgia Force offensive coordinator Steve Thonn (ton) head coach on August 1, 2007 after suffering a 4-12 season in 2007. Despite that, for the first time in team history, two players were named to the All-AFL Ironman Team. Offensive/defensive lineman Winfield Garnett (Harvey, Ill.) and wide receiver/linebacker Jerome Riley (Los Angeles, Calif.) each earned the honor for the first time in their careers.
The Mahoning Valley Thunder closed out the 2007 Inaugural Season with three-straight home victories. Be a part of all the action in 2008 as the Thunder embarks on their quest to claim the ArenaCup9 Championship. Season ticket prices are more affordable and on sale now. Call the Thunder Offices at 330.758.4af2 (4232).
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