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LaBelle Returns to Connecticut

May 9, 2002 - arenafootball2 (af2)
Mohegan Wolves News Release


NEW LONDON, C.T. (May 9th, 2002)- The Mohegan Wolves have added a local standout that is making quite a name for himself in the af2 this season. Fullback/Linebacker Ben LaBelle has returned to southeastern Connecticut to be closer to his family and continue his professional football career.

Ben, a 6'0, 260 lb. FB/LB holds 5 school records at NCAA Div. III Western Connecticut State including most points in a game, most points in a season, most rushing touchdowns in a season and a career as well as most 100 yard rushing games. He gained almost 2,000 yards during his four-year career at WCSU and earned 2nd team Freedom Football Conference honors as a senior. LaBelle also headlined a brilliant run of three playoff berths, two league titles, and one state championship in three years for Killingly High School in northeastern Connecticut.

Ben LaBelle's 2002 af2 Statistics
Games Rush Att. Yards Avg. TD Avg/G. Rec. Yards Tck. Sack
3 8 28 3.5 4 9.3 1 5 5.5 ½

LaBelle attended an open workout in Mobile, Alabama after deciding that his playing options in Connecticut were limited. The Pensacola Barracudas of the af2 and Head Coach Mike Buck offered Ben a contract to journey to Florida and play. He accepted and made the trip to Pensacola in early March for camp. Since joining Pensacola Ben has started at FB/LB and played at an exceptionally high level.

Despite the outstanding start, Ben still wanted to get back home. The Pensacola front office called New London to see what availability the team had for Ben. Seeing the numbers LaBelle had put up, and knowing that Ben had a taste of arena football, Head Coach Gary Porter agreed to bring him in.

"We didn't sign Ben before the season because we had some experienced guys that we were counting on. We've had a few injuries and we've seen what Ben can do. I am extremely happy to see Ben playing well, and we are fortunate to have him on the squad," said Coach Porter.

Ben will see his first action in the blue and silver this Friday vs. the 1st place Albany Conquest (3-1). Tickets are still available and can be purchased at the Mohegan Sun Box office by calling (860) 862-8000 or by going to www.tickets.com or call 800-477-6849.

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