Mustangs' Harrell Named 10th Greatest Player in AFL History
June 21, 2012 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Milwaukee Mustangs News Release
MILWAUKEE (June 21, 2012) - Only a few weeks after being named the second-greatest wide receiver to play the game of arena football, former Milwaukee Mustangs wide receiver and current wide receivers and special teams assistant coach, Damian Harrell has been named the tenth-greatest player in Arena Football League history in the AFL's recent countdown.
"I am blessed and grateful to even be acknowledged for this award," said the record-setting receiver. "With guys that I looked up to being on this list, it is a blessing and an honor."
A five-time All-Arena selection, Harrell ranks second in AFL history in total touchdowns (361) and points scored (2,172), and first in receptions (1,164), receiving yards (15,128) and receiving touchdowns (357).
The Florida State product began a 12-year career in the AFL when he joined the New England Sea Wolves in 1999 and spent two years with the team. In 2001, Harrell became a member of the Toronto Phantoms and enjoyed a breakout season, catching 98 passes for 1,340 yards and 20 touchdowns; this was just the first of nine consecutive seasons in which he would haul in 1,000 receiving yards. After posting a second impressive season for the Phantoms, Harrell teamed up with Colorado Crush quarterback John Dutton to become an AFL sensation.
Harrell was named Offensive Player of the Year in 2005, helping the Crush to an ArenaBowl XIX championship with 122 catches for 1,486 yards and 41 touchdowns. He followed up that spectacular season with an even greater one. Named the Offensive Player of the Year for a second straight year, Damian hauled in career-high 152 receptions for 1,920 yards and an AFL record 60 touchdowns in 2006. During his time with the Crush, Harrell put together a string of 78 straight contests with a touchdown reception, another AFL record.
"I had the chance to play against him back in 2007 and 2008 and he was known as the G.O.A.T (Greatest of All Time), probably the greatest receiver to ever play this game," said Mustangs wide receiver Andrae Thurman. "He has helped bring some of my athletic ability out and he is a great coach."
After spending the 2008 season with the Chicago Rush, Harrell took his talents to Milwaukee and helped lead the team to a National Conference Championship game appearance with 100 catches for 1,258 yards and 28 touchdowns. He finished his remarkable AFL career with the Mustangs in 2011 and transitioned to his role as assistant coach in 2012.
Mustangs Head Coach Bob Landsee describes Harrell's wealth of playing experience and humble nature as a valuable asset to the players he coaches.
"With his ability to interact and talk to players, having been on the same page playing a year ago, he is able to communicate to them in a way that is different than ours," explained Landsee. "He has a much different demeanor and a great relationship with the players."
Harrell will continue to help Milwaukee in its quest for an AFL championship this season with five games remaining and is eligible for the AFL Hall of Fame following the 2014 season.
The Milwaukee Mustangs stay home this week when the Arizona Rattlers come to town at 7 p.m. at the BMO Harris Bradley Center. The first 2,000 fans will receive free July 4th Summerfest tickets, and all fans are eligible for the "buy one adult ticket, get one children's ticket free" promotional offer. The game will be featured on Time Warner Cable Sports32 and you can listen to the play-by-play on 540 ESPN and Espnwisconsin.com with announcer Bill Johnson. To purchase tickets, visit Ticketmaster.com, call 800-745-3000 or visit the BMO Harris Bradley Center box office.
The 2012 Milwaukee Mustangs are thrilled to honor and represent the Arena Football League as they celebrate their Silver 25th Anniversary this season. Tickets and sponsorships on sale now! For more information, visit mkemustangs.com or call 414-224-4000. Don't forget to follow the Milwaukee Mustangs on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
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