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Rampage Conclude Training Camp with Practice in Columbus

February 21, 2008 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Grand Rapids Rampage News Release


COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Rampage concluded their 2008 training camp here today with a pair of practices against the Columbus Destroyers. With the season's start looming, Grand Rapids' new coaching staff will spend the next few days narrowing the current 37-man roster to a maximum of 24 players who will comprise West Michigan's very own Arena Football League team.

"From day one, the effort was there from every player," said Steve Thonn, Rampage head coach and director of football operations. "We were able to evaluate all of the players new to Arena Football and see how they might help our team this year. Meanwhile, we've seen some great chemistry with the veterans and we hope to keep it going into our first game."

Grand Rapids participated in intersquad practices with Columbus today after a planned scrimmage with the Dallas Desperados earlier this week was cancelled due to airplane mechanical difficulties and poor weather conditions. The Rampage and the Destroyers engaged in several one-on-one drills and worked specifically on red zone situations.

"Overall, I thought the practices went well here today," added Thonn. "Our guys got a lot of hard work in, and several players really stepped up in a physical environment."

Once the Rampage's official roster is named, the players will receive some time to rest, as Grand Rapids faces a bye in Week 1 of the 2008 AFL season. The Rampage will kick off their season on March 10 when the defending ArenaBowl champion San Jose SaberCats visit Van Andel Arena.

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The Grand Rapids Rampage are celebrating their 11th season in the Arena Football League. The Rampage, ArenaBowl XV champions, compete in the league's American Conference, and play their games at Centennial Wireless Field in Van Andel Arena.

The Arena Football League, in its 22nd season, was dubbed the fifth major-league sport by ESPN the Magazine in 2004. The league consists of 17 teams split into two conferences and four divisions.

For the latest team news, visit RampageFootball.com.



Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from February 21, 2008


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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