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Hans Olsen Named To AFL Al Lucas Hero Team

July 17, 2007 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Utah Blaze News Release


SALT LAKE CITY - The Arena Football League announced that Utah Blaze OL/DL HANS OLSEN (6-4, 306, BYU) was named to the League's Al Lucas Hero Team yesterday.

Olsen has been a hero to the Blaze organization and Salt Lake City since the team's inception nearly two years ago. He has given his time and his heart unselfishly to all who have needed him, especially during the recent death of a fellow teammate, JUSTIN SKAGGS. Aside from the team, Olsen has also been a hero to his biggest fan, Ryker Foxx. Through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Olsen and four other players spent an entire day with Ryker, a six-year-old boy who was battling an aggressive brain tumor, and his family.

When the cameras were off and the media faded, Olsen continued to make trips to visit Ryker and his family. From pizza to video games, Olsen and other Blaze players continued to make Ryker's dream come true.

Even after Ryker's passing, Olsen has stayed in touch with the Foxx family. He is still a familiar face around the household, taking the time now to spend with the other kids. Ryker's mother, Lori, and Olsen's wife, Amanda, have also become good friends and often spend time together when Hans is on the road.

"Our healing moments came through Hans," said Lori. "He is a genuine man, not doing anything because he has to. He is a true hero and will always be a part of our family."

From speaking at banquets to participating in fundraising golf tournaments, Olsen is still giving back to the organization that he says gave so much to him.

"I'm deeply connected with Make-A-Wish," said Olsen. "I have seen the positive outcome, and I will do whatever it takes to bring awareness and recognition to this wonderful organization."

The Al Lucas Hero Award is presented annually to the player who makes the most significant contribution to both his community and the game of Arena Football. The award was created in honor of the late Los Angeles Avenger lineman Al Lucas, who believed in both giving back to his community and growing the AFL.

The following players have been named to the Al Lucas Hero Team and are all nominated to receive the Al Lucas Hero Award which will be announced today:

Player Team

Dane Krager Austin Wranglers

John Dutton Colorado Crush

Clint Dolezel Dallas Desperados

Chad Salisbury Grand Rapids Rampage

Jason Stewart Los Angeles Avengers

Chris Anthony New York Dragons

Shane Stafford Orlando Predators

HANS OLSEN UTAH BLAZE

ABOUT THE BLAZE

The Utah Blaze were winners of the 2006 Commissioner's Award, given to the Arena Football League's Organization of the Year, and the Best Support Staff Award. 2008 Season Tickets are now available by logging onto www.utahblaze.com or by calling (801) 257-3111. The Blaze are owned and operated by the Ken Garff Automotive Group - www.kengarff.com.



Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from July 17, 2007


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