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Q&A with Team Down Under head coach Mike Sea

March 25, 2004 - arenafootball2 (af2) News Release


Team Down Under held their first practice on Thursday afternoon in preparation for Sunday's preseason game against the Columbus Wardogs. After practice, head coach Mike Sea took a few moments from his hectic schedule to answer some questions on his team and the upcoming game.

Q: Your team traveled over 24 hours to get here. How are the guys adjusting to the jet lag and time difference?

Mike Sea: I must admit that many on the team are struggling. Despite this, we trained well this afternoon and the community has made us feel like one of their own, which has helped us kept them going.

Q: How were these players selected for this trip?

MS: Last December we played in the Arena Football Down Under Challenge in Sydney, Australia. Over 120 players played under the watchful eyes of Arena coaching staff and these U.S. based af2 coaches selected the Team Down Under.

Q: How did the first practice go?

MS: We took the first practice today as an opportunity for us all to get to know each other better on the field. We got more achieved than expected and we are well on track for Sunday at 3:00 p.m.

Q: What do you think is the toughest adjustment your players have to make for the Arena game compared to playing the outdoor game?

MS: Speed, speed and speed!

Q: Whom should the fans watch on Sunday? Which player is most capable of doing something special on the field?

MS: We have a number, but at this stage I'd have to say OS Steve Curwood, FB/LB Peter Steve and QB Glenn Parke. Louis Levea-Williams on the line will also stand out.

Q: Talk about the Columbus/Phenix City area community. How have you been treated and what do you think of the area?

MS: The hairs on the back of my neck stood up when the mayors of Columbus and Phenix City handed me the keys to the cities. Despite the many things I have done over the years, this single moment humbled me beyond my expectations. Despite not even being here for 29 hours, already I am amazed at the little stories and comments of friendship that have already emerged. The fact that your communities have offered us this opportunity and benefiting the United Way Children's fund says volumes for the attitude of the community.

Q: What are your thoughts on the Wardogs?

MS: To be honest, I know very little. Coach Fourcade certainly has the knowledge and is in his second year on the job so I imagine they'll do a great job not only against us, but also over the af2 season. Some new players added to the roster this season add to their chances this season. Let's just hope they get it together the week after we play them.

Q: How does this game help Arena Football back home? MS: This is a vital step in the development of an Arena League Down Under! The experience and knowledge gained are priceless in terms of how it will enthusiastically be based on. We have strong rivalries within the football community however the hand we share transcends this rivalry.

Q: What's the one piece of advice you are going to give to your players on Sunday? MS: Have fun, play with pride and leave it all on the field. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity!

Q: Any predictions for the game?

MS: My prediction is that everyone involved with this game - coaches, players, staff, sponsors and the public will talk about the day the Aussies came to town talking with a funny accent!

Kickoff for Freedom Bowl II is 3:00 p.m. ET on Sunday at the Columbus Civic Center. Tickets for the game are available at any Ticketmaster outlet including the Columbus Civic Center or by calling (706) 494-8330. Tickets are $10.00 each with proceeds benefiting The United Way of Chattahoochee Valley.

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