Predators seek to develop Hispanic player
December 4, 2006 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Orlando Predators News Release
ORLANDO, Fla. (Dec. 4) -- The Orlando Predators have begun an initiative to identify, sign, and develop Hispanic players for its Arena Football League team.
As part of the initiative, the Predators will purchase advertising this week on a Spanish language radio station to promote their upcoming Dec. 9 free agent tryout. The Predators hope to sign at least one player of Hispanic origin for the 2007 season and will commit a space on its practice squad if a qualified candidate can be found.
"The Hispanic community is one of the largest and fastest growing segments in all of Central Florida," Predators President Brett Bouchy said. "When marketing to this community we are often asked if we have a Hispanic player. Our goal is to find and develop a player with Hispanic heritage." Bouchy points to the success the Orlando Magic have had in marketing to the Hispanic community after obtaining Carlos Arroyo last season as one of the reasons for this initative.
Unlike basketball and soccer, American football is rarely played at the high school levels in Caribbean Islands and Latin America, making finding qualified players difficult. For this reason, Orlando is willing to be patient. "If we can find a Hispanic player of tremendous athletic ability but limited football experience, I am willing to place him on the practice squad for up to a year and give him a chance to develop. We are really committed to this," Bouchy added.
For more information on the Predators open tryout, call 407-44-PREDS or visit the team's website at www.orlandopredators.com.
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