Soul train on track to Grand Rapid
October 13, 2005 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Grand Rapids Rampage News Release
Fullback/linebacker Chris Ryan is returning home to the Grand Rapids Rampage after two seasons with the Philadelphia Soul. Ryan spent his first four AFL seasons with the Rampage before signing with the Soul as a free agent in 2004. Terms of the contract were not disclosed.
"Chris Ryan comes back to Grand Rapids as a better player than when he left here two years ago," said Rampage head coach Sparky McEwen. "He brings an added punch to our red zone offense - with Ryan alongside Chris Avery we have the fiercest FB/LB corps in the AFL."
Ryan (6'01" 325 lbs., Clark Atlanta) ranks 14th all-time in rushing yards (682) and sixth in rushing touchdowns (66). During the past six AFL seasons, no player has rushed for more yards or scored more rushing touchdowns than Ryan.
Known as one of the leagues most colorful personalities, Ryan was given the nickname "Soul Train" by Soul owner Jon Bon Jovi.
Ryan is tied with longtime Rampage FB/LB Chris Avery for most rushing scores (34) in franchise history. During his time in Philadelphia, Ryan led the Soul in both rushing yards and touchdowns.
"Chris (Ryan) is a key free agent signing for us," McEwen added. "This move will help us get back to being a championship-caliber team."
Rampage 2006 season tickets are now on sale. To reserve your season tickets for hard-hitting, high scoring, non-stop Rampage football on Centennial Wireless Field at Van Andel Arena, call the Rampage offices at 1.888.595.4878 or log on to RampageFootball.com.
The 20th season of Arena Football and fourth on NBC kicks off the weekend of Sunday, January 29, 2006. Tune in on WOOD-TV channel 8 in the Grand Rapids area all season long for the Rampage's drive to ArenaBowl XX.
Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from October 13, 2005
- Congialdi gets Soulmates prepared - OSC Original by Fran Stuchbury
- Grabowski to trick-or-treat with fans, host pumpkin decorating contest - Chicago Rush
- L.A. Avengers sign AFL veteran Anthony Derricks - Los Angeles Avengers
- Soul train on track to Grand Rapid - Grand Rapids Rampage
- Rush adds AFL vet Robinson, pair of rookies - Chicago Rush
- Kats' McConnell joins fight against ALS - Nashville Kats
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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