Hyland Returns; Blaze Add Rookies Ikner, Lester
Published on March 12, 2013 under Arena Football League (AFL)
Utah Blaze News Release
SALT LAKE CITY - The Utah Blaze have agreed to terms with veteran DB David Hyland, as well as DB Arness Ikner and WR DeJay Lester, the franchise announced today. Ikner and Lester enter their rookie seasons in the Arena Football League, while Hyland returns after starting 15 games for the Blaze in 2012.
Despite missing the first five games of the 2012 season, David Hyland (6-0, 190, Morehead State) managed to lead the Utah Blaze with 93 total tackles, including three tackles for loss. He added two interceptions, 11 pass breakups and one fumble recovery. Off the field, Hyland was awarded the Arena Football League's Community MVP of the Year award for his philanthropic efforts.
"I'm excited to be back with my Blaze family. It's a privilege to be surrounded by such great people throughout the organization," said Hyland. "The opportunity to wear the black and orange for a second season is a blessing that I hope to take full advantage of. I can't wait to get out on the field and get back to work."
A native of Layton, Utah, DeJay Lester (6-3, 200, Wyoming) played two seasons at the University of Wyoming after transferring from Snow College. In 2009, Lester hauled in 27 receptions for 456 yards and two touchdowns while helping Snow capture the Zions Bank Top of the Mountains Bowl. Snow finished the season ranking fifth in the NJCAA National Poll with a 10-2 overall record.
"It's humbling and a blessing. It feels great to be part of great organization," Lester stated. "I'm ready to contribute wherever I'm needed and hopefully I can help this team win a championship. It's an amazing feeling."
After transferring from Mt. San Antonio College in 2009, Arness Ikner (5-8, 180, Middle Tennessee State) started 24 games during his junior and senior seasons at Middle Tennessee State. He totaled 112 tackles with two tackles for loss over his final two campaigns, adding two interceptions and 11 pass breakups. Ikner was voted a permanent team captain for the Blue Raiders as a senior in 2011.
"I'm excited and blessed to have the opportunity to play for the Blaze," said Ikner. "I hope to bring playmaking ability to the team and I'm going to do everything I can to help Utah reach the championship in 2013."
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