Lance, Allen take over NFL Europa teams
Published on January 29, 2007 under National Football League Europa (NFLE) News Release
Rick Lantz, a World Bowl and Coach of the Year winner during his three-season spell with the Berlin Thunder, has been named as the new head coach of the Rhein Fire.
Lantz led the Thunder from 2004-2006 and reached NFL Europa's championship game in each of his first two seasons, winning the title in 2004. He replaces former Fire head coach Jim Tomsula, who took an assistant coaching job with the San Francisco 49ers earlier this month.
"I have had three great years in Berlin and had great success in the German capital," the 69-year-old Lantz said. "Rhein Fire is a new step for me and a great new challenge. The Fire has a successful history and I hope I can bring more success to the great fans in Düsseldorf."
Amsterdam Admirals offensive coordinator John Allen has been named as Lantz's replacement as head coach of the Berlin Thunder. The 34-year-old has spent the past three seasons guiding an explosive Admirals offense that has averaged more than 335 yards per game under his control.
Prior to joining the Admirals, Allen - a former offensive coordinator at Lock Haven University - spent the 2003 campaign serving as wide receivers coach of the Berlin Thunder.
"I am excited to be back in the great city of Berlin," Allen said. "I am looking forward to returning to this team. I've had three great years in Amsterdam with wonderful coaches, players and fans. But I can't wait to start working with this great organization and look forward to bringing the World Bowl back to Berlin."
NFL Europa Managing Director Uwe Bergheim added: "I am happy that one of the most successful coaches in NFL Europa history joins one of the most successful franchises - the Rhein Fire. Rick Lantz will excite the Fire fans and bring success back to the Rhein. John Allen is a young and ambitious coach who will bring offensive fireworks to Berlin. We are confident he will further strengthen Berlin's positive performances of recent years."
National Football League Europa Stories from January 29, 2007
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.
