Headd And Belleus Return to Spartans
January 3, 2011 - Indoor Football League (IFL)
La Crosse Spartans News Release
La Crosse, WI: After a long off-season of trades and free agent signings, the La Crosse Spartans have began the process of re-signing the core of last year's team. The team announced today its first re-signings for the upcoming 2011 season by inking wide receiver Christopher Headd and defensive back Walner Belleus.
Headd was an indoor football rookie in 2010 but still made an impact offensively by catching 17 passes for 314 yards and three touchdowns while appearing in 11 games. He also drew great compliment throughout the season from head coach Gilbert Brown and general manager Chris Kokalis. "Chris (Headd) was a leader for us despite being a rookie," Kokalis said. "He worked just as hard as anybody in practice and served as an excellent blocker in our running game. We're excited about his future."
Belleus returns to the Spartans' defensive backfield after leading the team in tackles in 2010. Belleus racked up 69 tackles in 13 games, to go along with two interceptions and seven pass breakups. The University of Iowa product also contributed in the kick return game with seven returns for 106 yards. "Walner gives us a lot at both the corner and safety position," Kokalis said. "He's got a nose for the football and great athletic ability which he showed us last season."
The Spartans also added former UMASS standout Eric Dickson to their secondary. Dickson (5'11", 210 lbs.) played both safety and cornerback for the Minutemen and finished his senior season with 95 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and two fumbles forced in 2009. Dickson had a career-high 18 tackles against fourth-ranked New Hampshire that season as well.
The second-year franchise will open training camp on February 5. The team is allowed to bring 45 guys into camp and will cut down to its final roster of 25 by February 17, prior to the team's first game of the season.
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Indoor Football League Stories from January 3, 2011
- Headd And Belleus Return to Spartans - La Crosse Spartans
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- Nebraska Danger sign all-time leading rusher - Nebraska Danger
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