Heroes taking it to another level
May 16, 2007 - American Indoor Football Association (AIFA)
Huntington Heroes News Release
The fans may call it the biggest game of the year, or even the biggest home game in franchise history. Even after qualifying for the playoffs and winning five straight the Heroes still have something to prove. The Heroes control their own destiny in hosting a possible playoff game, but the road won't be easy because the final three games of the season are more than likely against playoff bound teams. It all starts this Saturday as the 8-3 Heroes host the 12-1 and North Division leading Reading Express.
"Our playoffs begin this week," said Heroes head coach Garry McPeek. "This is a home playoff game for us. We control our own destiny, we don't need anyone's help to get a home playoff game. That is all you can ask for is a chance to get the job done yourself." In addition to the playoff implications coach McPeek sees this game as a possible defining moment in the Heroes two year history. "It is time for us to step up and take this organization to the next level. We have the resources, we have great players, great fans, a wonderful place to play and practice, now it comes down to taking that leap of faith. Climbing that mountain and knocking off a great team that we have a lot of respect for."
That is a task that will not be easy because if you follow the AIFA at all you know the Express is a solid team at every position. Even with the Heroes impressive play in the last five games they know they'll have to step it up another notch against Reading. "Reading is a great football team with some tremendous athletes," said McPeek. "To have a chance we have to play mistake free football for 60 minutes and be there at the end to have a shot."
These teams matched up earlier in the season in Reading and the Express came away with a 48-18 route of the Heroes. That game was the Heroes last loss and they are hoping for a bit of redemption this time around. "Even after all these games it comes down to this," said Heroes linebacker "Kool Aid" Owens. "This is it, it's a big one." "We would like to play better than we did last time," said McPeek. "We turned the ball over six times. If you are playing the Flatwoods Cowboys and turn it over six times you are not going to win. If we execute and play up to our potential we have a chance. If we turn it over and don't play with a sense of urgency then we will not."
Besides the shot at redemption alot has changed with the Heroes roster since that March 31 meeting in Reading. Dane Damron is now the Heroes QB, and the secondary has settled in. "The secondary is really starting to gel. When you have a guy like Connie Brown out there it is like having another coach on the field. He does a great job getting everyone on the same page."
With everything that can be said about this game, the playoff implications, the chance to take that next step and the shot at redemption, coach McPeek sums it up quite simply, "It's no different than any other week. We have to get pressure on their QB and take care of the football."
This game has all the makings of being a classic. Two playoff bound teams playing their best football at the right time of year, and players at the top of their game. Don't miss this chance to be a part of it all. The Heroes are offering many activities and ticket specials for this final regular season home game. This Saturday is Military Appreciation night, show your military ID and get a ticket for $8.00. You can also download and print a coupon for a free kids ticket with the purchase of an adult ticket (click here for coupon ). The Heroes will also be hosting a block party before the game in front of the arena. The block will begin at 5:00 and will have inflatables for the kids, $1.00 hot dogs, live music and you can even register for chance to win a gas grill from South Point Wal-Mart. Tickets can also be obtained online and by visiting or calling the arena box office at 304-696-4400.
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