Time out with Charles Verdone
Published on June 10, 2004 under National Indoor Football League (NIFL)
Omaha Beef News Release
Omaha, Nebraska â His intuition on the field makes him a hit with fans, but there's more to the bold Beef defensive back than meets the eye. His strong sense of family and passion for both coaching and playing defines who Charles Verdone really is.
Originally from Naperville, Illinois, Verdone (pronounced ver-doe-nee) continued his football career at Benedictine University in Lisle, Illinois. During his time as an Eagle, the 5-11, 190-pound defensive back started three-and-a-half years and earned all-American honors in 1999 and 2000. He still holds school records for interceptions in a game (4) and career interceptions (21) for the college.
After ending his collegiate career with top honors, Verdone made one of the toughest decisions of his life. "Deciding to move away from my mom and sister to pursue my dream of playing football was really difficult," said the soft-spoken Verdone. "They have had the most impact on my life and it was hard to leave them."
But for that decision, the Omaha Beef was certainly thankful. Verdone spent his first year in the NIFL with the Tri City Diesel where he tied the record for most tackles in a game (15). Then Verdone made the move to Omaha in 2003. "The Beef organization is one of the best in the NIFL," said Charles. "Omaha is a great city and their fans are great."
The feeling is mutual. As one of the leading defenders for the Beef, Verdone has captured six interceptions this season, making him one of the most exciting players to watch. With his expert intuition on the field, Verdone has broken up nine passes, ranking him fifth in the league in passes defended (12). He is also tied for third in interceptions (6). But that's not his only talent. "My favorite part about football is being able to hit somebody," he laughed. And hit people he does. So far this season he has tallied 36 total tackles and one tackle for loss, ranking him fifth among Beef defenders.
In addition to playing for the Beef, Verdone is an assistant football coach at his alma mater, Benedictine University. "The best part about being a coach, for me, is getting to see the kids get better," said Verdone. "I really like working with them and seeing their improvements."
Verdone has seen improvements in his own playing as well. After a dislocated shoulder injury sidelined him in late April, Verdone is back on the field, still pursuing his football dream.
National Indoor Football League Stories from June 10, 2004
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- Omaha Beef, Automart 150 and Hope Center offer opportunity for fans - Omaha Beef
- Kicker Long working on NFL status - Omaha Beef
- Time out with Charles Verdone - Omaha Beef
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