Reading Express Continue Making Improvements
April 27, 2011 - Indoor Football League (IFL)
Reading Express News Release
Reading, Pa. (April 27, 2011) - With a healthy division lead over rivals Lehigh Valley Steelhawks (1-6) and Richmond Revolution (1-6), the 5-3 Reading Express are becoming more confident by the day to make the post-season. If the Express can lock up the Atlantic Division championship in the next couple of weeks, they can set their sights firmly on a first-round playoff game at the Sovereign Center in Reading, Pa.
The regular-season has been a trying time as the Express have constantly been preparing for their first playoff run in the Indoor Football League. The team has recently made more upgrades as the regular-season heads into its second-half.
The most-notable addition is to the offensive line.
Elliott Seifert, a name many Express fans recognize, returns to the team for this Saturday's game against the Richmond Revolution at the Sovereign Center. The Temple University product should be a contributing factor in improving the offensive line. In addition to past experience with the Express, Seifert cut his teeth in the pro ranks with the NFL's Cincinnati Bengals and the AFL's New York Dragons. He is expected to play in Saturday's game at guard.
A revamped and reinforced offensive line should give Express QB Chris Malleo more time in the pocket to exploit his throwing arm. This opens the door for another key component to the receiving corps.
Mike McCoy, a two-year starter at the University of Alabama under Nick Saban, joins the Reading Express as a vastly-talented wideout. McCoy appeared in 43 games with 32 starts during his Alabama career. During his final three years with the Crimson Tide, McCoy was one of the top receivers on the team. He recently spent time with the IFL's Green Bay Blizzard. Ironically, McCoy joined the Express the week after the team played the Blizzard in Green Bay, Wi.
In addition to McCoy, the Express get a boost from veteran Dan Kelly, who returns to the team after recovering from shoulder surgery. Kelly, who played his college ball at Lebanon Valley College, suited up for the first time since 2010 last weekend against the Lehigh Valley Steelhawks in Bethlehem, Pa. Kelly caught two passes for 13 yards. Kelly, who should mostly see time as a wide receiver, has been one of the most versatile players in Express history. Kelly has experience at quarterback, and can also contribute on special teams if needed.
The Express also added talent on the defensive side of the ball.
Aaron Moore, an athletic defensive back who saw extensive playing time while with San Diego State University, joins the Reading Express for the team's run down the stretch. Moore started for the Aztecs in over 25 games during his college career.
Game Time: This Saturday's game kicks off at 7:00 p.m. at the Sovereign Center. If the Express beat the Richmond Revolution, the Express moves closer to clinching the Atlantic Division and getting a coveted spot in the IFL playoffs. It's Heart Health Night, presented by The Reading Hospital Medical Group. The event will feature a special silent auction to benefit The Friends of The Reading Hospital, HeartSAFE Berks County program.
The Reading Express are one of the most established franchises in indoor football. In five full seasons, the team has amassed an overall record of 64-20 with four playoff appearances, two conference titles and the 2009 AIFA National Championship. In 2011, Reading begins play as a new member of the Indoor Football League. The team plays on The Reading Hospital Medical Group Field at Sovereign Center in Reading, Pa.
Tickets are now on sale at www.expressindoorfootball.com, or you can call the Express office at 610.372.PASS (7277) or visit the Sovereign Center box office to order.
Indoor Football League Stories from April 27, 2011
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- Green Bay Blizzard Sign WR Robert Garth - Green Bay Blizzard
- Guns and Hoses Night Saturday, April 30th - Amarillo Venom
- Game Preview: Steelhawks at Spartans - Lehigh Valley Steelhawks
- Reading Express Continue Making Improvements - Reading Express
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