L.A. Avengers sign James Bethea and Michael Craven
November 27, 2006 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Los Angeles Avengers News Release
LOS ANGELES -- Defensive back James Bethea and linebacker Michael Craven have signed free agent contracts with the Los Angeles Avengers, head coach Ed Hodgkiss announced today.
Bethea, who was a standout cornerback at the University of California before spending time in the NFL and NFL Europe, signed a one-year deal.
Craven, one of the nation's top prep players before playing four seasons as a linebacker at Stanford, inked a two-year deal that will keep him in Los Angeles through the 2008 season.
Bethea (6-foot, 190 pounds) was signed by the Oakland Raiders to a free agent contract following the 2004 NFL Draft and went on to join the practice squads of the Detroit Lions and Washington Redskins. In 2005, Bethea was signed to the Redskins' active roster and later allocated to NFL Europe where he played for the Frankfurt Galaxy. On April 5, 2006, he was signed by the Buffalo Bills, but was released prior to the start of the regular season.
"Bethea is one of the better DBs that we've had in for a workout since I've been here," said Hodgkiss, who has guided the Avengers into the playoffs in four of his five seasons at the helm. "He can play all three defensive back positions for us and we are really excited about having him."
A four-year letterman at California (2000-03), Bethea finished his collegiate career with 131 tackles and five interceptions. He also returned kickoffs and punts for the Golden Bears. One of Bethea's best games occurred on Sept 14, 2002, when he intercepted two passes in a 46-22 victory over Michigan State.
Born on Sept. 24, 1982, Bethea attended Grover Cleveland High School (Reseda, Calif.), where he was an outstanding running back. As a senior, he rushed for 1,982 yards, averaging 9.8 yards per carry. In one of his best games, Bethea rushed for 282 yards in a landmark victory over Taft High School.
Craven (6-1, 235) played in 39 career games at Stanford, finishing with 92 tackles (including 9.5 for losses), four quarterback sacks, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. He also chalked up two touchdowns, returning an interception 33 yards and a fumble 54 yards for scores. Craven also was an outfielder on the Cardinal baseball team as a freshman in 2002.
"With the free substitution rules now in place, the mack linebacker will become more of a 'true' linebacker and we think Craven could be the new prototype at that spot," Hodgkiss said. "He runs well, is a smart player, plays physical and is a very good all-around athlete."
Born on Jan. 8, 1983, Craven was a consensus first-team All-America selection while attending La Quinta (Calif.) High School. PrepStar rated him as the No. 1 linebacker in the nation and included him on its "Dream Team." Craven, who also was a Parade Magazine All-America pick, started at both linebacker and tight end. He led the Blackhawks to a 13-1 record and CIF Division 8 championship as a senior, finishing with 180 tackles, 13 sacks and four interceptions (two of which were returned for touchdowns). In addition, Craven was a member of the La Quinta baseball (earned All-Desert Valley League honors) and track & field teams (personal best of 10.98 in the 100-meters).
The Avengers' 2007 schedule is expected to be announced shortly.
Fifty dollar deposits for Avenger season tickets, which include nine games played at STAPLES Center, are now being accepted at 1-888-AVENGERS or online at www.laavengers.com.
Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from November 27, 2006
- L.A. Avengers sign James Bethea and Michael Craven - Los Angeles Avengers
- Storm announce Holiday Gift Pack - Tampa Bay Storm
- Blaze go over the top to grant Draper boy's wish - Utah Blaze
- Preds QB Stafford In "We Are Marshall" - Orlando Predators
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
