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Taking Over for a Legend

February 27, 2003 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Grand Rapids Rampage News Release


Filling the shoes of another person is always difficult. Now multiple that difficulty level by infinity and you begin to feel what Grand Rapid Rampage wide receiver/linebacker Ricky Ross feels.

When Rampage fan favorite and future Arena Football League Hall of Famer Michael Baker chose to retire during the offseason, it was pretty much a given that Ross would replace him. After all, he had been Baker's understudy for two seasons.

During those two seasons, Ross did something that most wouldn't have. He decided to stay in Grand Rapids and learn from one of the best, instead of leaving for another team, where he probably would have received a lot more playing time.

"I gained incredible knowledge from one of the best at the position in Michael Baker," said Ross. "He turned over every stone for me and I'm so comfortable on the field because of it."

Comfortable is an understatement. Through four games this season, Ross has filled in for Baker quiet nicely. The former Missouri standout has performed in typical Baker fashion, contributing on offense, defense and special teams.

Two weeks ago against New York, Ross, by far, had the biggest game of his career. He single handily kept Grand Rapids in the game, returning kickoffs of 56 and 57 yards for touchdowns. He also contributed five tackles and forced a crucial fumble to earn league Ironman of the Week honors for the first time in his career.

"There is no doubt that he has been in the shadow of Baker," said Rampage head coach Michael Trigg. "He's a guy that has had to bide his time to have this premier role and thus far he has done a great job. He has pretty much picked up where Michael left off. He's quietly become a leader and I'm very pleased for him and with him."

Ross' performance thus far has also pleased his mentor and friend. In fact, Baker always knew that Ross would be successful.

"From the moment I met Ricky I knew he had all the tools to be a great Arena Football League player," said Baker. "I'm not surprised with his success. He paid his dues and now it's his turn to shine."

The third-year pro has a long way to go to fill the shoes of a legend, but he's just grateful to have the opportunity.

"It's all coming together for me," Ross said. "I always felt in the back of my mind that I could contribute to this team more. I did everything I could to prepare for this season because I knew that I would be thrown into the fire. I feel like I'm making the most of my opportunity and hopefully that will continue."



Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from February 27, 2003


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