Marcus Nash named AFL Offensive Player of the Year

Published on June 16, 2004 under Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Las Vegas Gladiators News Release


Las Vegas, June 16, 2004 – Marcus Nash was named the Arena Football League Baby Ruth Real Deal Offensive Player of the Year for his outstanding season as offensive specialist for the Las Vegas Gladiators. The award was announced today live on ESPNews at 1:50 PM PT. Nash earned the honor as voted by the AFL head coaches, players, fans and Arena Football League Writers Association (AFLWA).

Nash (6-4, 225, Tennessee), in his first season in Las Vegas, broke the AFL's mark for receptions in a season by hauling in 154 passes for 1,771 yards. He eclipsed the old mark of 138, set by Eddie Brown in 1999. Nash also tied the AFL record for touchdown receptions in a season with 46. The All-AFL First-Team offensive specialist led the AFL in numerous offensive categories including total touchdowns (49), scoring (300 points), first downs (112), third down receiving (33 receptions for 419 yards - 11 TDs) and double-digit receiving games (7). Nash also finished the season with eight 100-yard receiving games while rushing for three touchdowns and converted on three two-point conversions.

"This is a tremendous honor," said Nash. "It is especially rewarding that some of the voting was done by my peers in the league and by the great AFL fans. This would not be possible without the confidence that coach Haege had in me and playing with a great quarterback like Clint Dolezel. I usually don't dwell too much on individual achievements, but being recognized after a season, in which we worked so hard as a team, is gratifying. "

"Marcus has been unbelievable this season and he has been a pleasure to coach," Head Coach Frank Haege said about Nash. "We went through times this season when we were faced with third and long, or fourth and long and I just told Clint (Dolezel) to go to Marcus because I new he would come through for us and he did, every time. We are pleased and excited to have the Dolezel to Nash combination coming back next season. Not only is Marcus a great player, but he is also a quality person and an extreme competitor."

Nash was named the league's Offensive Player of the Month for March when he torched opponents with 46 receptions for 609 yards and 13 touchdowns in four games. He was also honored as Co-Offensive Player of the Week for his performance against Arizona in week six when he caught 16 passes for 192 yards and four scores.

Nash led the Gladiators by earning Offensive Player of the Game honors in five of Las Vegas' 16 games this season. He also tied an AFL record for touchdown receptions in a game when he grabbed seven touchdowns on the road against Arizona in week 10.

Nash becomes the first Offensive Player of the Year winner in Gladiators' franchise history and the second overall Player of the Year winner for the organization. Kicker Steve Videtich was named AFL Kicker of the Year in 2002.

Season tickets for the 2005 season are on sale now and can be purchased by calling the Las Vegas Gladiators office at 702-731-4977. Fans can get a look at their potential seats by logging onto LVGladiators.com and clicking on virtual seating.

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Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from June 16, 2004


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