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AFL I Arizona Rattlers

Rattlers Release Hunkie Cooper

March 2, 2005 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Arizona Rattlers News Release


Phoenix, AZ – The Arizona Rattlers have released WR/LB Hunkie Cooper, the team announced today. Cooper, who has spent his entire 13-year career with the Rattlers, leaves Arizona as the team's all-time leader in receiving yards (8,559), receptions (776), forced fumbles (7), fumble recoveries (11), and touchdowns (205). Cooper is also the Arena Football League's all-time leader in all-purpose yardage (20,587) and kickoff returns (500).

"Hunkie is a true pioneer in the AFL," said Vice President and General Manager Gene Nudo. "Words could never describe the admiration and respect I have for him. Although today is a sad day for me personally, I know Hunkie will continue to do great things for the rest of his life. I will always appreciate his allowing us to watch the greatest player to ever play in the Arena Football League."

Cooper began the season on Injured Reserve, missing the first two games of the season with a quad injury. He has played in the past three games, making three receptions for 32 yards, and returned five kickoffs for 102 yards. In the Rattlers loss to Georgia on February 12, Cooper passed George LaFrance as the AFL's all-time all-purpose yardage leader.

"This is the toughest decision I have ever had to make in my coaching career," said first year Head Coach Todd Shell. "I believe Hunkie Cooper is one of the best, if not the best, to ever play in the Arena Football League. As a coach, you have to make tough decisions in order to do what you think is best for the team. We have some young guys here that have proven that they belong and deserve to be on the field. I have nothing but the utmost respect for Hunkie as both a player and as a man. I know myself and this entire organization wish Hunkie and his family nothing but the best for the future."

Over the course of his 13-year career, Cooper has missed only four games, including the first two of this season. He is a two-time ArenaBowl champion, earning rings with the Rattlers in 1994 and 1997. He was named the AFL's MVP during his rookie season of 1993, and added Ironman of the Year honors in 1999 and 2000. Cooper was named to the All-Arena squad six times, including four First Team honors.

Arizona looks to break their four game losing streak when they host the Los Angeles Avengers this Sunday, March 6 at the America West Arena. The game kicks off at 6:00 PM. For tickets, call 602-514-TDTD or log on to AZRattlers.com.



Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from March 2, 2005


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