Three Green Bay Blizzard Members Named as Candidates for IFL Hall of Fame
May 30, 2014 - Indoor Football League (IFL)
Green Bay Blizzard News Release
Green Bay, WI - The Green Bay Blizzard organization is proud to announce that the team has three candidates nominated for the inaugural Indoor Football League (IFL) Hall of Fame class. Blizzard Defensive Back B.J Hill, Linebacker Maurice Simpkins and Chief Operating Officer Art Clarkson were named as candidates.
DB B.J Hill (2010-2013) holds a variety of both IFL and Blizzard records. Hill holds IFL records for most kick return yards during his career with 3412, most career kick return touchdowns (13) and highest kickoff return avg. of the season (23.2). During his career, Hill was named 2011 and 2013 IFL Special Teams Player of the Year and was named to numerous All-IFL teams. Hill owns the Blizzard record for most career interceptions (20), most tackles (253) and kick return yards (3412).
"I'm truly honored to be nominated with such a great group of players, especially after recently retiring. Over my four seasons with the Blizzard there are so many deserving of this nomination, I'm truly blessed," stated Hill.
LB Maurice Simpkins played for the Blizzard in 2010 where he led the team and was second in the IFL in tackles with 126. For his accomplishments on the field Simpkins was named 2010 Most Improved Player and was named to the First Team All-IFL squad. Following his strong season, Simpkins signed a contract with the Green Bay Packers. Simpkins would go on to appear in four games on the practice squad and was then signed to the active roster for three games. Following the 2010 season with the Packers, Simpkins was signed to the St. Louis Rams Practice Squad.
Simpkins also played for the UIF's Rock River Raptors in 2007 where he recorded 116 tackles. The UIF merged into what is currently the IFL.
"It is certainly an honor to be considered for the inaugural IFL Hall of Fame class. I want to thank the Green Bay Blizzard organization for believing in me, and allowing me the chance to continue my dream of professional football," said Simpkins.
The final candidate for the inaugural IFL Hall of Fame is Blizzard Chief Operating Officer Art Clarkson.
As a founding member of the UIF, Clarkson ran the Tennessee Valley Raptor in 2005. After leaving Tennessee Valley, Clarkson moved to Green Bay where he has operated the team since 2010. Under his supervision the Blizzard were named 2011 IFL Franchise of the Year and were also named the 2012 and 2013 Game Operations of the Year. Clarkson has served on numerous IFL committees such as the Executive, Expansion and Marketing Committees. He has 40 years of professional sports front office experience in indoor football, hockey and baseball.
"It is a special honor to be named as a candidate to the Inaugural IFL Hall of Fame Class," added Clarkson.
After an initial vote, the 20 candidates will be reduced to 10 finalists for the inaugural class. Once the 10 finalists are determined, a final vote, which will include fan participation, will determine the first three members of the IFL Hall of Fame.
"The creation of the Hall of Fame gives us a chance to commemorate the exceptional individuals that have helped shape the IFL," added IFL Commissioner Michael Allshouse. "We are looking forward to honoring the great men and women that have been instrumental in the League's growth."
The inaugural class of the Hall of Fame will be enshrined during the pre-game ceremonies of the 2014 United Bowl.
Indoor Football League Stories from May 30, 2014
- Colorado Ice Gain Intense Conference Lead with a 69-28 Win against the Wyoming Cavalry - Colorado Crush
- Three Green Bay Blizzard Members Named as Candidates for IFL Hall of Fame - Green Bay Blizzard
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