Orlando Predators Hire Clay Harrell as Line Coach
February 23, 2016 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Orlando Predators News Release
Clay Harrell with the Spokane Shock
(Orlando Predators)
ORLANDO - The Orlando Predators finalized its coaching staff for the 2016 season today, announcing the addition of Clay Harrell as the team's Line Coach.
Harrell spent the previous two seasons coaching the offensive and defensive lines for the Portland Thunder. Most recently, he developed a unit that surrendered the fifth fewest sacks (19) in the Arena Football League in 2015. He began his coaching career with Spokane Shock, serving as the team's line coach in 2012.
Prior to becoming a coach in 2012, Harrell started every game at fullback for the Spokane Shock in 2010 and 2011. As a runner, he totaled 135 yards with nine touchdowns on 24 carries. Harrell helped Spokane win ArenaBowl XXIII in 2010, where he played under current Predators Head Coach Rob Keefe and Offensive Coordinator Matthew Sauk.
Harrell began his Arena Football career in 2006 as a member of the af2's Everett Hawks, where he earned All-af2 second-team honors as a defensive lineman. He entered the Arena Football League the following year with the Nashville Katz and converted to the offensive line. Harrell joined the Los Angeles Avengers in 2008, where he caught seven passes for 79 yards and four touchdowns. Harrell briefly returned to the field to play in seven games for the Cleveland Gladiators in 2013 before joining the Thunder coaching staff in 2014.
"Coach Harrell was successful during his playing career due to his diligence and commitment to excellence and he brings those same qualities to the field as a coach," said Head Coach Rob Keefe. "His experience working on both sides of the ball is invaluable and I couldn't be more excited to add another coach who brings championship credentials to our staff."
Harrell replaces Coach Steve Edwards, who elected to pursue new opportunities following two successful seasons coaching the Predators offensive and defensive lines.
"Coach Edwards did an outstanding job for us during the past two seasons and was pivotal in helping us reestablish a winning organization," Keefe stated. "We thank him for his service and wish him the best in his future endeavors."
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 Clay Harrell with the Spokane Shock |
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Arena Football League Stories from February 23, 2016
- Rattlers Acquire WR Julian Williams - Arizona Rattlers
- Orlando Predators Hire Clay Harrell as Line Coach - Orlando Predators
- Storm Acquires Additional Quarterback - Tampa Bay Storm
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