Stafford Makes A difference

April 18, 2007 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Orlando Predators News Release


ORLANDO, Fla. (APR. 18) -- Shane Stafford's career in Central Florida is just six games old and he had already made a huge difference - both on and off the field for the Orlando Predators of Arena Football League.

One of the most highly-coveted free agents of the off-season, Stafford cast his lot with the Predators during the off-season after playing five years for arch-rival Tampa Bay. He has passed for more 1,500 yards and 27 touchdowns in leading Orlando to a 3-3 record. If he continues at his current pace, he will most likely shatter every Predators single season record for attempts, completions, yards and touchdowns.

His efforts have impressed Predators head coach Jay Gruden. "Shane has made some excellent throws under duress this season. Understand he has played all but one game without his starting offensive guard and injuries have forced us to move a lot of players around on the offensive line. On top of that, his two top receivers remain out with injuries. It's been impossible for him to have any type of consistency," Gruden said. "When we get some guys back, I think you will see why so many teams wanted to sign him in the off-season."

But for as valuable as Stafford has been on the field for the Predators, he has been even more valuable in the community - where he has already volunteered countless hours for various charities and causes.

"He's been a joy to work with," Predators Public Relations Director Dan Pearson said. "Whenever you need something, you just ask and Shane says he will do it. He's very conscientious."

Stafford has made appearances for several organizations, but has a special place in his heart for issues dealing with childhood cancers.

Two years ago, Stafford became involved in the Pediatric Cancer Foundation and Center in Tampa, where he would make weekly visits. During the visits he would play with the children, tutor them and provide emotional support to the kids and their families.

When he signed with Orlando, he continues to make the weekly visits to the center - leaving the Predators practice facility, traveling two hours by car each way, and returning in time for practice the next day.

This week is typical of Stafford's hectic schedule. Stafford volunteered to appear as a celebrity escort at "Fashion Funds A Cure," a fundraiser held yesterday at Saks Fifth Avenue at Florida Mall yesterday. The event raised thousands of dollars for pediatric cancer research. Stafford jumped in his car after practice on Wednesday to make an appearance at "The Perfect 10," a similar fundraiser in Tampa. He will appear on the Monster's Radio Show program on Thursday to promote Friday's game with the New York Dragons.

Other local appearances this year have included a visit to a Veteran's Hospital in Orlando and signing autographs at a Beta Center Food Drive booth during the team's season ticket pick-up party. Stafford also has made two appearances this year to film commercials for the Children's Miracle Network.

His activities with the Predators have not been limited to charity work. Stafford has volunteered his time to promote Arena Football and the Predators on radio and television commercials, in addition to making several live appearances on morning radio and television shows to promote the team.

"Shane's a natural," Orlando Predators President Brett Bouchy said. "He's highly intelligent and articulate and certainly the type of player you want to promote your team."

But it his charity work that drives Stafford. "I believe all athletes have a responsibility to the community. I'm just trying to do my part."



Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from April 18, 2007


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